New Wild Archaeological Discovery Shocks Montanans (NSFW)

BUTTE, MT - Deep in the forests near Whitefish, Montana, something extraordinary has been carved into the bedrock—literally.

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A newly publicized petroglyph site, initially discovered by local residents and now under study by renowned archaeologists, may be among the most significant in all of North America.

And yes, some of what’s etched into the stone is downright R-rated.

This is no ordinary find. Described as a “one of a kind” collection of prehistoric carvings, the site showcases dozens of animal tracks, human footprints, mythical creatures—and graphic depictions of sexuality that rival the most provocative ancient art ever recorded.

A Once-In-A-Lifetime Find in the Wilds of Whitefish

The story began in 2019, when David and Andrea Vissotzky stumbled upon unusual rock markings near their home on the edge of Stillwater State Forest.

What they found was so stunning, they contacted world-traveling anthropologist James D. Keyser, a leading authority on ancient rock art. It didn’t take long before experts began realizing this wasn’t just another archaeological site, it was something groundbreaking.

After pandemic delays, a full team finally descended on the area in June 2023. What they uncovered was jaw-dropping: more than 40 meticulously carved bear tracks, dozens of deer and moose hoofprints, and even human moccasin prints organized into lifelike "trackways."

These prints may date back as far as 4,000 years, from the Late Archaic period—a time when Montana’s earliest peoples roamed freely through now-dense forest.

Mythical Beasts and Explicit Symbols

Beyond the animal tracks and hunting scenes, the site takes a startling turn.

Researchers documented two “therianthropic” figures—half-human, half-animal beings—etched with bear paw feet and human-like torsos.

But the real shocker? The rock art includes depictions of male and female genitalia, birth scenes, and even what the researchers called a “weaponized penis,” shaped like a projectile point.

“This site has a hyper-sexual focus we haven’t seen before,” Keyser and his colleague Cameron J. Dimmick wrote in the Journal of the Montana Archaeological Society. And they’re not exaggerating.

These images stand in sharp contrast to the more spiritual or symbolic petroglyphs found in other parts of North America.

A Hidden Heritage at Risk of Being Forgotten

Despite its significance, this site—like many others across Montana—was almost lost to time.

Archaeologist Patrick Rennie, who helped navigate state permissions, emphasized the sacrifices made by the volunteer team: “We paid out of pocket for the food, the lodging… a lot of personal-time sacrifices.”

Even Jessica Bush, Montana’s state archaeologist, admits there’s been a slow decline in focus on local archaeology. With many university programs turning their gaze to Canada or other states, Montana’s ancient history is too often left buried—literally and metaphorically.

A Call for More Public Archaeology

The Vissotzky discovery serves as a powerful reminder of what can happen when passionate locals and dedicated scientists work together.

Thanks to one couple’s curiosity and a small group’s commitment, we now know that Whitefish holds secrets far more ancient—and provocative—than we ever imagined.

So what else is hiding under the moss and rock of Montana’s vast wilderness? If this discovery is any clue...we’ve barely scratched the surface.