Ancient Rock Art In Texas Has Been ‘Irreparably’ Damaged By Callous Vandals

An ancient petroglyph, or rock art, in Big Bend National Park—an 800,000-acre space home to multiple archaeological sites on the border of Mexico—was irreparably damaged after being vandalized by callous visitors.

According to the National Park Service, the damaged panel was located in a rather remote area of the park, known as the Indian Head, and was believed to be between 4,000 and 8,500 years old. On December 26, visitors to the park inscribed several names and the date on the rock. 

“Damaging natural features and rock art destroys the very beauty and history that the American people want to protect in our parks,” said Big Bend’s superintendent, Bob Krumenaker. 

According to The Art Newspaper, despite the best efforts of professional conservators, it seems that most of the damage will be permanent. Before it was defaced, the panel comprised geometric forms, such as circles and various line art.

The park managers have documented over 50 vandalism incidents since 2015, as reported by Hyperallergic. Authorities are petitioning for anyone with information about the persons involved to come forward. 

As Krumenaker put it: “With each instance of vandalism, part of our Nation’s heritage is lost forever.”

[via The Art Newspaper and Hyperallergic, cover image via National Park Service]