Two main areas of high archaeological significance were identified during the testing of the proposed route option A. These were a sub rectangular enclosure and the upstanding enclosure elements of the ringfort.
The outer bank and ditch of the ringfort are still intact to a large degree and are visible on the surface within the CPO line. The area is heavily overgrown with mature and semi-mature trees and a dense understorey of secondary growth. Despite this, and despite having been truncated by the insertion of a trackway cutting through the outer bank and the construction of a stone revetment and drain on its southern side, the outer enclosing elements of the ringfort are to a large degree extant.
The insertion of a modern trackway in this location would have a severe negative impact on the northern enclosing elements of the ringfort.
Two distinct features were recorded on the western and eastern side of the route of the N8 during topsoil striping prior to the construction of the temporary realignment of the R614. Site A a Bronze Age / Iron Age ring ditch was located to the west of the N8 and Site B an Early Bronze Age enclosure was located to the east in Ballybrowney Lower.
Site A has been identified as a ring-ditch with an internal diameter of 4.25m. Cremated human bone was recorded in the fills of the ring ditch. It is likely to be associated with the large Bronze Age/Iron Age site on the route of the N8 to the north-east which was excavated by E. Cotter in 2003. The site included four enclosures, three circular houses and a medieval corn-drying kiln. The site was truncated by several levelled field boundaries, probably 18th in origin (Cotter 2004, 38).
Site B was a continuation of an Early Bronze Age enclosure partially excavated by E.Cotter in 2003. As it was not going to be disturbed it was not excavated but recorded, planned and covered.
Eachtra Archaeological Projects were engaged to monitor works within previously untested or unresolved locations along the route of the new N8 Rathcormac/Fermoy Bypass, between June 2004 and February 2005. Three previously unknown archaeological sites were discovered in the course of monitoring internal works. One such site was at Ballyoran Bog, where remains of Giant Irish Deer and a possible brushwood trackway were excavated. The skeletal remains of the Giant Irish Deer are a rare occurrence on archaeological sites, but one of the most interesting aspects of the excavation was the discovery that later inhabitants of the area were aware that deer remains were present in the bog, as tool marks on antler fragments demonstrate. Excavation and post-excavation analysis of the brushwood platform/trackway has revealed that the occupiers of this site exploited the immediate environs of the bog for construction materials. The discovery of the possible trackway is significant, given that the majority of those sites recorded in Ireland are located in the Midlands. In conclusion, the site at Ballyoran bog is important on a provincial, as well as a national scale.
This report details the results of an archaeological excavation of a disturbed ringfort (GA087-177) in Loughbown, County Galway. The excavation revealed evidence of Iron Age activity pre-dating the construction of the enclosure. Features excavated included a sub-circular structure, a causeway, entrance, internal bank, and a V-shaped external ditch enclosing the site. Radiocarbon dates from charcoal samples spanned the 4th century BC to the 17th century AD. Few artefacts were recovered, including a bracelet, quernstone, and knife blade. The excavation helped further the understanding of the construction and occupation of the site from the Iron Age period through the medieval period.
Eachtra archaeological projects undertook excavation of Stratham’s garage in January and February of 2005 under licence 99E0757, an extension to a pre-existing licence. In total some eighty pits were excavated with a small number of linear features and post-medieval wall foundations, drains and a cobbled surface also present. There was no evidence for a medieval structure in this area of the site and many of the pits were filled with refuse. The excavated area was interpreted as the partial remains of four medieval burgage plots. Recent excavations of the area immediately north and adjacent to this site will hopefully provide material comparable to the results from the Stratham’s Garage site.
The site at Fermoy Wood has been identified as a early Iron Age burnt mound where hot stone technology was used but there is no definite evidence from this site to indicate the specific purpose of heating stones and water in the area; the technology could have been utilised in a variety of processes from cooking and bathing to fulling, felting, boat building and many other industrial processes. The site is just one of many similar monuments that have been discovered in the general area in recent years and it contributes to the widespread evidence for use of hot stones and water in the area in prehistory. The nearest excavated site to the Fermoy Wood fulacht fiadh was the brushwood platform and trackway and nearby discovery of Giant Irish Deer in Ballyoran Bog (04E1014 extension).
The site occurs within an area where a cluster of Bronze Age fulachta fiadh sites have been identified.
Three burnt mounds were recorded (CO019-019, -020 and -021) within 500m of the site, while two other burnt mounds were excavated as part of this road project; Stagpark 2 (04E1121) was 800m away to the north and Mitchelstown 2 (04E1071) was 2km to the north. The intense use of this small area for the purposes of heating stones and water has produced a date range that suggests occupation on a long-term, if perhaps intermittent basis from at least the Early Bronze Age. The lower heavier wetter ground in the area was used for sites such as these. With the exception of the burnt mound at Mitchelstown 2, which was located on the northern bank of the Gradoge River, the remaining burnt mounds are not located adjacent to any known or contemporary water sources. The underlying subsoil is however a heavy clay which holds water very effectively being almost impermeable. The archaeological evidence indicates that contemporary Early Bronze Age occupation occurred on the higher drier ground, at Stagpark 1 (04E1120) 600m to the north. An extensive occupation site, dating to the Middle Bronze Age, was located on a limestone ridge on the northern bank of the Gradoge River at Mitchelstown 1 (04E1072) 2.8km to the north.
The recording of three Early Bronze Age pots within a small pit is a very significant find. There are no parallels for the two small pots, one of which was decorated to represent a human face or body. The pit containing the pottery was located on the northern bank of the Gradoge River on the western fringe of the road corridor, it is possible that further archaeological features are located to the west. The pit maybe associated with the burnt mound. The radiocarbon date returned for the pottery would overlap with Early Bronze Age dates returned for Fulachta Fiadh in Stagpark 3 (04E1119), located 2200m to the south, and are almost identical to dates returned for Early Bronze Age activity in Stagpark 1 (04E1120), located 1400m to the south.
There are 16 Bronze Age burials, comprising cist burials, Food Vessel burials, Urn burials and pit burials, recorded within a 13 km radius of the site. The burials are generally located on low-lying ground between 60 m and 100 m OD. Some are located within 500 m of the Funshion River and its tributaries, the Sheep River, the Tooraleagan River and the Gradoge River. Generally, Early Bronze Age burials tend to be concentrated in low-lying areas such as valley floors, while the associated settlement sites are probably located on higher ground along the valleys (Cooney & Grogan 1999, 103). While the majority of graves contain the remains of one individual, multiple burials, either collective or successive, also occurred. The majority of the Cordoned Urns are associated with burials and the simple pit grave is the commonest type (Waddell 2000, 149).
The Mitchelstown pit and pottery group shares some characteristics of Early Bronze Age burial practices in terms of the low-lying location in the river valley, the simple form of the pit itself, and the deposition of the Cordoned Urn. However, many aspects are very different. The creation of a face and human features on Vessels 2 and 3, the positioning of the ears, anatomically incorrect, on both vessels and the inclusion of a spoon are all unusual. In addition, despite the inclusion of a Cordoned Urn - usually a funerary vessel, there was no evidence of burial recorded at the site. The deposition therefore points away from burial and towards other ritual, for instance libation to a deity. It is also possible that this pit does not exist in isolation and other archaeological features, including burials, may be located in the area to the west, beyond the edge of the road corridor.
A small group of two pits dating to the Middle Neolithic and a burnt mound where hot stone technology was used was identified at Fermoy. This burnt mound technology could have been utilised in a variety of processes from cooking and bathing to fulling, felting, boat building and many other industrial processes. The challenge of these sites is to determine which activity took place on each or indeed whether they were multifunctional. It can be suggested that the site was used for the manufacture of cloth by the processes of fulling or dying.
Two distinct features were recorded on the western and eastern side of the route of the N8 during topsoil striping prior to the construction of the temporary realignment of the R614. Site A a Bronze Age / Iron Age ring ditch was located to the west of the N8 and Site B an Early Bronze Age enclosure was located to the east in Ballybrowney Lower.
Site A has been identified as a ring-ditch with an internal diameter of 4.25m. Cremated human bone was recorded in the fills of the ring ditch. It is likely to be associated with the large Bronze Age/Iron Age site on the route of the N8 to the north-east which was excavated by E. Cotter in 2003. The site included four enclosures, three circular houses and a medieval corn-drying kiln. The site was truncated by several levelled field boundaries, probably 18th in origin (Cotter 2004, 38).
Site B was a continuation of an Early Bronze Age enclosure partially excavated by E.Cotter in 2003. As it was not going to be disturbed it was not excavated but recorded, planned and covered.
Eachtra Archaeological Projects were engaged to monitor works within previously untested or unresolved locations along the route of the new N8 Rathcormac/Fermoy Bypass, between June 2004 and February 2005. Three previously unknown archaeological sites were discovered in the course of monitoring internal works. One such site was at Ballyoran Bog, where remains of Giant Irish Deer and a possible brushwood trackway were excavated. The skeletal remains of the Giant Irish Deer are a rare occurrence on archaeological sites, but one of the most interesting aspects of the excavation was the discovery that later inhabitants of the area were aware that deer remains were present in the bog, as tool marks on antler fragments demonstrate. Excavation and post-excavation analysis of the brushwood platform/trackway has revealed that the occupiers of this site exploited the immediate environs of the bog for construction materials. The discovery of the possible trackway is significant, given that the majority of those sites recorded in Ireland are located in the Midlands. In conclusion, the site at Ballyoran bog is important on a provincial, as well as a national scale.
This report details the results of an archaeological excavation of a disturbed ringfort (GA087-177) in Loughbown, County Galway. The excavation revealed evidence of Iron Age activity pre-dating the construction of the enclosure. Features excavated included a sub-circular structure, a causeway, entrance, internal bank, and a V-shaped external ditch enclosing the site. Radiocarbon dates from charcoal samples spanned the 4th century BC to the 17th century AD. Few artefacts were recovered, including a bracelet, quernstone, and knife blade. The excavation helped further the understanding of the construction and occupation of the site from the Iron Age period through the medieval period.
Eachtra archaeological projects undertook excavation of Stratham’s garage in January and February of 2005 under licence 99E0757, an extension to a pre-existing licence. In total some eighty pits were excavated with a small number of linear features and post-medieval wall foundations, drains and a cobbled surface also present. There was no evidence for a medieval structure in this area of the site and many of the pits were filled with refuse. The excavated area was interpreted as the partial remains of four medieval burgage plots. Recent excavations of the area immediately north and adjacent to this site will hopefully provide material comparable to the results from the Stratham’s Garage site.
The site at Fermoy Wood has been identified as a early Iron Age burnt mound where hot stone technology was used but there is no definite evidence from this site to indicate the specific purpose of heating stones and water in the area; the technology could have been utilised in a variety of processes from cooking and bathing to fulling, felting, boat building and many other industrial processes. The site is just one of many similar monuments that have been discovered in the general area in recent years and it contributes to the widespread evidence for use of hot stones and water in the area in prehistory. The nearest excavated site to the Fermoy Wood fulacht fiadh was the brushwood platform and trackway and nearby discovery of Giant Irish Deer in Ballyoran Bog (04E1014 extension).
The site occurs within an area where a cluster of Bronze Age fulachta fiadh sites have been identified.
Three burnt mounds were recorded (CO019-019, -020 and -021) within 500m of the site, while two other burnt mounds were excavated as part of this road project; Stagpark 2 (04E1121) was 800m away to the north and Mitchelstown 2 (04E1071) was 2km to the north. The intense use of this small area for the purposes of heating stones and water has produced a date range that suggests occupation on a long-term, if perhaps intermittent basis from at least the Early Bronze Age. The lower heavier wetter ground in the area was used for sites such as these. With the exception of the burnt mound at Mitchelstown 2, which was located on the northern bank of the Gradoge River, the remaining burnt mounds are not located adjacent to any known or contemporary water sources. The underlying subsoil is however a heavy clay which holds water very effectively being almost impermeable. The archaeological evidence indicates that contemporary Early Bronze Age occupation occurred on the higher drier ground, at Stagpark 1 (04E1120) 600m to the north. An extensive occupation site, dating to the Middle Bronze Age, was located on a limestone ridge on the northern bank of the Gradoge River at Mitchelstown 1 (04E1072) 2.8km to the north.
The recording of three Early Bronze Age pots within a small pit is a very significant find. There are no parallels for the two small pots, one of which was decorated to represent a human face or body. The pit containing the pottery was located on the northern bank of the Gradoge River on the western fringe of the road corridor, it is possible that further archaeological features are located to the west. The pit maybe associated with the burnt mound. The radiocarbon date returned for the pottery would overlap with Early Bronze Age dates returned for Fulachta Fiadh in Stagpark 3 (04E1119), located 2200m to the south, and are almost identical to dates returned for Early Bronze Age activity in Stagpark 1 (04E1120), located 1400m to the south.
There are 16 Bronze Age burials, comprising cist burials, Food Vessel burials, Urn burials and pit burials, recorded within a 13 km radius of the site. The burials are generally located on low-lying ground between 60 m and 100 m OD. Some are located within 500 m of the Funshion River and its tributaries, the Sheep River, the Tooraleagan River and the Gradoge River. Generally, Early Bronze Age burials tend to be concentrated in low-lying areas such as valley floors, while the associated settlement sites are probably located on higher ground along the valleys (Cooney & Grogan 1999, 103). While the majority of graves contain the remains of one individual, multiple burials, either collective or successive, also occurred. The majority of the Cordoned Urns are associated with burials and the simple pit grave is the commonest type (Waddell 2000, 149).
The Mitchelstown pit and pottery group shares some characteristics of Early Bronze Age burial practices in terms of the low-lying location in the river valley, the simple form of the pit itself, and the deposition of the Cordoned Urn. However, many aspects are very different. The creation of a face and human features on Vessels 2 and 3, the positioning of the ears, anatomically incorrect, on both vessels and the inclusion of a spoon are all unusual. In addition, despite the inclusion of a Cordoned Urn - usually a funerary vessel, there was no evidence of burial recorded at the site. The deposition therefore points away from burial and towards other ritual, for instance libation to a deity. It is also possible that this pit does not exist in isolation and other archaeological features, including burials, may be located in the area to the west, beyond the edge of the road corridor.
A small group of two pits dating to the Middle Neolithic and a burnt mound where hot stone technology was used was identified at Fermoy. This burnt mound technology could have been utilised in a variety of processes from cooking and bathing to fulling, felting, boat building and many other industrial processes. The challenge of these sites is to determine which activity took place on each or indeed whether they were multifunctional. It can be suggested that the site was used for the manufacture of cloth by the processes of fulling or dying.
This report comprises the Final Report of excavations undertaken by Eachtra Archaeological Projects along the line of the proposed Castledermot Sewerage Scheme in 2004. Kildare County Council proposed to upgrade the sewerage system in Castledermot village running from the Lerr River to the south along Abbey St. and Main St. to Skenagun to the north. The present town contains extensive archaeological remains, both upstanding and subsurface, of the earlier Medieval town (KD040-002). Therefore in 2002, an archaeological assessment of the proposed line of the sewerage trench was carried out (Byrne 2000). This was followed by a programme of test excavations (Lynch 2002). The results of this work led to a decision to archaeologically resolve the line of the proposed pipe trench in advance of commencement of construction works. Eachtra Archaeological Projects excavated the line of the proposed trench between June and December 2004 under excavation licence number 04E0750. While the excavated trench was narrow, it offered a lengthy cross-section of the Medieval and Post-Medieval town. The excavation revealed a number of facets of the town during these periods including the Medieval town walls and a cemetery. Following archaeological resolution of the trench, it was backfilled to be opened at a future date for the insertion of the sewerage pipes.
This report details an archaeological excavation of an isolated hearth feature located in Bricketstown, Co. Wexford during construction of the N25 road. The hearth consisted of a charcoal-rich spread overlying three deposits within an irregular oval cut that had been heavily truncated by previous groundworks. Radiocarbon dating placed the hearth in the Iron Age period between 500 BC-500 AD. It was one of few Iron Age sites identified in County Wexford to date.
Most of the archaeological features recorded during this excavation were pits, 26 in total, two walls and a well were also excavated.
Most of the contexts were dated according to the artefacts retrieved from their fills. Therefore, pits with exclusively or almost exclusively medieval pottery were classified as medieval, whereas pits with medieval and post-medieval finds were classified as post-medieval. However, as most of the excavated features were backfilled, it is possible that some of the cut features that contained deposits, with inclusions of post-medieval artefacts, were actually open and in use in the medieval period.
The remains uncovered can be divided into medieval, post-medieval and modern. The pits were in general sub-circular and oval in plan, and, with the exception of pit C.98, were on average 2.06 m in length by 1.36 m in width by 0.61 m in depth. The fills of the pits were a mix of dark grey brown silty clay with occasional inclusions of animal bone and pottery. A total of 26 pits, two walls and a well were recorded.
This document provides an archaeological excavation report for a spade mill and lime kiln excavated at Coololla, Co. Galway. It includes background information on the archaeological and historical context of the site. The excavation uncovered the remains of a post-medieval building interpreted as a water-powered forge or spade mill, as well as a post-medieval lime kiln. While there is no evidence linking the two structures, they could potentially have been operated by the same individuals. The report provides detailed descriptions of the excavated structures and artifacts, and places them in the historical context of land use changes in the local area from the medieval to post-medieval periods.
This archaeological excavation report details the excavation of a post-medieval spade mill and lime kiln located in Coololla, Co. Galway. The spade mill structure was interpreted as a water-powered forge, likely used to produce spades. Stone foundations and a mill race were uncovered. The adjacent lime kiln structure contained evidence of limestone extraction and firing. While these structures were located near one another, there is no evidence they were contemporaneous. The report provides historical background on land use and ownership in the local area from the medieval period through the 17th century, and discusses the excavated structures and artifacts in detail.
This document provides a predictive model of the cultural landscape within the Blackfellow Creek focal area in the Lockyer Valley, Queensland, Australia. It summarizes the archaeological and environmental context of the area to identify locations of potential cultural significance to Indigenous peoples. The model integrates Traditional Owner knowledge with scientific data on geology, landforms, water sources, and vegetation to map invisible cultural sites as well as visible archaeological sites. The goal is to provide guidance for cultural heritage management within the area and establish a framework for ongoing collaboration with Traditional Owners.
The site occurs within an area where a cluster of Bronze Age fulachta fiadh sites have been identified.
Three burnt mounds were recorded (CO019-019, -020 and -021) within 500m of the site, while two other burnt mounds were excavated as part of this road project; Stagpark 2 (04E1121) was 800m away to the north and Mitchelstown 2 (04E1071) was 2km to the north. The intense use of this small area for the purposes of heating stones and water has produced a date range that suggests occupation on a long-term, if perhaps intermittent basis from at least the Early Bronze Age. The lower heavier wetter ground in the area was used for sites such as these. With the exception of the burnt mound at Mitchelstown 2, which was located on the northern bank of the Gradoge River, the remaining burnt mounds are not located adjacent to any known or contemporary water sources. The underlying subsoil is however a heavy clay which holds water very effectively being almost impermeable. The archaeological evidence indicates that contemporary Early Bronze Age occupation occurred on the higher drier ground, at Stagpark 1 (04E1120) 600m to the north. An extensive occupation site, dating to the Middle Bronze Age, was located on a limestone ridge on the northern bank of the Gradoge River at Mitchelstown 1 (04E1072) 2.8km to the north.
The site at Scartbarry has been identified as a Late Bronze Age burnt mound where hot stone technology was used but there is no definite evidence from this site to indicate the specific purpose of heating stones and water in the area; the technology could have been utilised in a variety of processes from cooking and bathing to fulling, felting, boat building and many other industrial processes. The site is just one of many similar monuments that have been discovered in the general area in recent years and it contributes to the widespread evidence for use of hot stones and water in the area in prehistory.
Three phases of archaeological activity were recorded on the site. The earliest phase is a Neolithic house and associated features within Area ІІ. An Early Bronze Age pit was located in Area І some 70m south of the house site. The final phase of activity related to Post-Medieval agricultural practices and included a back-filled ditch within Area ІІ.
A group of over a hundred pits, postholes and stakeholes were located on the hilltop at Stagpark. The features dated from the Early Bronze Age to the Middle Iron Age which would suggest that the hilltop was occupied over a long period of time. Four pits containing burnt fills were recorded in Area A and Area C. The pits were similar in terms of morphology, size and date. The two sets of pits were located within 1m of each other and c. 40m apart. Almost identical Early Bronze Age dates were returned for two of the pits. The pits may have functioned as cremation pits, although minute traces of burnt bone was recorded in only one of the fills. They may also have been utilised for a domestic purpose. One of the two large pits (C.1001) in Area B was dated to the Early Bronze Age. It is difficult to interpret the function of these pits as they are exceptionally large. Stakeholes recorded on the upper sides of pit C.1001, these may have formed a frame or covering for the pit.
The recovery of two sherds of Late Bronze Age coarse ware from a pit, in the vicinity of the hearth-pit C.22, in the northwest section of Area A, would indicate that this area was utilised during the Late Bronze Age. A cluster of three pits and eight stakeholes were located to the southeast of the hearth.
Four of the stakeholes in particular could have formed a shelter around the hearth open to the west.
Although no dating evidence was obtained from the features in the vicinity of the large pits C.66 and C.90 it is possible that they are associated with the Late Bronze Age activity surrounding the hearth C.22.
A Middle Iron Age date was returned from the later re-cut of the large pit C.110. An L-shaped alignment, consisting of three pits, 13 stakeholes and three postholes, extended to the north and east of the pit. The alignment measured c. 6m north-south by 13m east-west. It could be associated with the Middle Iron Age pit C.110, the Early Bronze Age cremation pits or the Late Bronze Age features.
A number of fulachta fiadh were recorded downslope to the north and south of the site. Three burnt mounds were recorded (CO019-019, -020 and -021) within 500m of the site, while four other burnt mounds were excavated as part of this road project; Stagpark 1 (04E1119) was 600m to the south, Stagpark 2 (04E1121) was 200m away to the north and Mitchelstown 2 (04E1071) was 1.5km to the north. The fulachta fiadh are located on heavier clay subsoil. Radiocarbon dates obtained from some of the burnt mounds would suggest that these sites were utilized during the Early Bronze Age.
The site, possibly located on the margins of prehistoric settlement, forms an interesting contrast to a Middle Bronze Age settlement site excavated at Mitchelstown 1 (04E1072). The remains of at least three circular houses were excavated at Mitchelstown 1. The site was located on a limestone ridge on the northern bank of the Gradoge River. The opposing site on the southern bank of the Gradoge River was subsequently occupied by the Anglo Normans in the thirteenth century. The material evidence recorded on site was scant. No associated pits and stakeholes were associated with the structures. It is possible that these features were located outside the route corridor.
The document reports on an archaeological excavation at Ballydowny in Killarney, County Kerry. Five cooking pits (fulachta fiadh), a ring ditch containing a cremation burial, two medieval iron working areas, and a prehistoric site with evidence of copper working were uncovered. Radiocarbon dating indicates occupation from the Neolithic period through the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and into the early medieval period. The excavation revealed remnants of iron smelting and smithing, as well as five cooking pits that were likely used for boiling or steaming food. A ring ditch and associated cremation burial were also found, dating to the Bronze Age.
The moated site comprised a rectangular moated area with an inside bank, a sub-rectangular building, and extensive evidence for activity outside the moat including numerous field boundaries, drains, furrows, working areas, a pottery kiln and a possible bisque firing kiln.
This report details the results of an archaeological excavation carried out at Kiltotan Collinstown 14, Co. Westmeath. The excavation uncovered two parallel post-medieval ditches and two burnt pits that were possibly medieval iron smelting furnaces. Analysis of artefacts, ecofacts and radiocarbon dating provided insights into the medieval and post-medieval activity on the site. The excavated features at this site are similar to others in the surrounding area and add to the understanding of settlement patterns in this rich archaeological landscape over multiple periods.
Archaeological Report - IDA Arklow Business & Technology Park, Ballynattin, C...John Tierney
The site was excavated under licence no. 04E0712. It was divided into ten areas of excavation: Areas 1-6, Area 6W, Area 7, Area 10 and Area 12.The earliest evidence for human activity was an Early Neolithic radiocarbon date obtained from the fill of a ditch in Area 6. However, there is no evidence for associated Early Neolithic activity. Most of the archaeological features excavated at Ballynattin were Bronze Age. Bronze Age pits were found in Area 6W, there was a spread of Bronze Age material in Area 3 and three partial Bronze Age structures were found in Areas 6 and 7. These were truncated and approximately only one third of each structure survived for excavation. A furnace excavated in Area 2 may also be Bronze Age in date; it has no associated radiocarbon dates but a saddle quern and flints were found within the furnace fill. The remaining features excavated at the site were primarily post-medieval, including a hearth excavated in Area 4, drains and ditches (Areas 1, 4 and 5) and a 19th century cobbled surface (Area 5).
Until monitoring of top-soil stripping commenced in 2003 only one archaeological monument was recorded on the site of the current development, Enclosure LI005:037. Following monitoring and subsequent excavation this area now includes records of at least three Late Bronze Age unenclosed flat cremation cemeteries, a ring-ditch in close proximity to one of the smaller cemeteries and the remains of four Fulachta Fiadh.
In Bricketstown townland a number of agricultural features were exposed including a limekiln, land divisions, hearth and stakeholes, a platform with medieval waste and evidence of ridge and furrow cultivation. The main features of the sites included early land divisions (ditches), a work surface with residues from various industrial activities, a hearth surrounded by stakeholes/hearth furniture, later land divisions (ditches) that enclosed ridges and furrows and a kiln. The archaeological evidence from the site is generally indicative of activity associated with agriculture, incorporating a kiln, furrows, boundaries and drainage ditches.
The site consisted of a sub-circular enclosure with a diameter of approximately 36 m; it was initially identified as a crop mark on an aerial photograph, with no trace at ground level. Three sides of the enclosure were formed by two ditches (recorded as the ‘east ditch’ and the ‘west ditch’). The fourth side was characterised by large pits/postholes and slot trenches which probably continued the line of the enclosure, despite the absence of a ditch. The enclosure surrounded a Bronze Age settlement site, with a sub-circular post and stake-built structure excavated near the centre of the enclosed area and an ancillary structure to the west. This report details the results of excavation at the site and the descriptions are broken down into context complexes: the enclosure, the internal structure, the ancillary building, other internal features and external features.
The site comprised a kiln, a small pit, and a field system, evidenced by three ditches. This is one of three kilns discovered during the road development scheme. It was medieval/post-medieval in date and consisted
of a circular main chamber with the flue projecting to the south-southwest. It was probably a limekiln and there was evidence for several periods of use.
This report details the results of an archaeological excavation at a burnt mound site located at Urraghry townland in County Galway. The excavation uncovered a burnt mound, trough, stake-holes, gully, and paleochannel. Radiocarbon dating of charcoal samples indicated Early Bronze Age activity on the site. Mesolithic stone tools were also found, suggesting earlier occupation. The site contributes to understanding prehistoric settlement patterns in the area, with five Bronze Age sites excavated along this portion of a new road development.
The Harristown Little kiln appeared to be a typical key-hole shaped kiln. Two similar kilns were excavated as part of this project, both in Bricketstown townland (licence nos. 00E0476 and 00E0626). The radiocarbon date from this kiln (cal AD 1460-1660) was very close to the date of use at Bricketstown 00E0476 (cal AD 1450-1650). Channels were cut into the bases of both the Bricketstown kilns and these acted as wind tunnels which distributed air evenly through the kiln as it was burning but these were not present at Harristown Little.
The site at Mitchelstown 1 was discovered during archaeological investigations along the route of the Mitchelstown Relief Road. The site comprised three houses constructed in at least two phases, one of the houses having been cut by the other two. The houses were approximately 10m in diameter and were roughly D-shaped in plan, with entrances centrally located on the straight side, facing east. One of the houses showed clear evidence of having had an internal division in the form of a slot trench running between two structural postholes. The slot trench could have held a wattle wall separating the entrance area (approximately one-third of the floor area) from the remainder of the house.
Little evidence was found of the material culture or economy of the inhabitants of the Mitchelstown houses. No pottery was recovered from the site and the few lithics were undiagnostic.
The number of cereal grains recovered from the soil samples was too small to allow any interpretation of the economy or diet of the population. A striking aspect of the environmental material however was the large number of seeds of the Dock family. These are usually considered to be weed seeds brought into houses inadvertently along with cereals. However, that is unlikely here, given the paucity of cereal grains on the site, and it may be that Dock seeds were deliberately gathered as a food source. Parallels for this have been found in Britain and Denmark where Dock seeds have been found in the gut contents of bog bodies.
The Mitchelstown houses have numerous parallels among the growing numbers of Middle Bronze Age houses now being discovered in recent Irish excavations and add to the expanding settlement pattern of the period.
This report comprises the Final Report of excavations undertaken by Eachtra Archaeological Projects along the line of the proposed Castledermot Sewerage Scheme in 2004. Kildare County Council proposed to upgrade the sewerage system in Castledermot village running from the Lerr River to the south along Abbey St. and Main St. to Skenagun to the north. The present town contains extensive archaeological remains, both upstanding and subsurface, of the earlier Medieval town (KD040-002). Therefore in 2002, an archaeological assessment of the proposed line of the sewerage trench was carried out (Byrne 2000). This was followed by a programme of test excavations (Lynch 2002). The results of this work led to a decision to archaeologically resolve the line of the proposed pipe trench in advance of commencement of construction works. Eachtra Archaeological Projects excavated the line of the proposed trench between June and December 2004 under excavation licence number 04E0750. While the excavated trench was narrow, it offered a lengthy cross-section of the Medieval and Post-Medieval town. The excavation revealed a number of facets of the town during these periods including the Medieval town walls and a cemetery. Following archaeological resolution of the trench, it was backfilled to be opened at a future date for the insertion of the sewerage pipes.
This report details an archaeological excavation of an isolated hearth feature located in Bricketstown, Co. Wexford during construction of the N25 road. The hearth consisted of a charcoal-rich spread overlying three deposits within an irregular oval cut that had been heavily truncated by previous groundworks. Radiocarbon dating placed the hearth in the Iron Age period between 500 BC-500 AD. It was one of few Iron Age sites identified in County Wexford to date.
Most of the archaeological features recorded during this excavation were pits, 26 in total, two walls and a well were also excavated.
Most of the contexts were dated according to the artefacts retrieved from their fills. Therefore, pits with exclusively or almost exclusively medieval pottery were classified as medieval, whereas pits with medieval and post-medieval finds were classified as post-medieval. However, as most of the excavated features were backfilled, it is possible that some of the cut features that contained deposits, with inclusions of post-medieval artefacts, were actually open and in use in the medieval period.
The remains uncovered can be divided into medieval, post-medieval and modern. The pits were in general sub-circular and oval in plan, and, with the exception of pit C.98, were on average 2.06 m in length by 1.36 m in width by 0.61 m in depth. The fills of the pits were a mix of dark grey brown silty clay with occasional inclusions of animal bone and pottery. A total of 26 pits, two walls and a well were recorded.
This document provides an archaeological excavation report for a spade mill and lime kiln excavated at Coololla, Co. Galway. It includes background information on the archaeological and historical context of the site. The excavation uncovered the remains of a post-medieval building interpreted as a water-powered forge or spade mill, as well as a post-medieval lime kiln. While there is no evidence linking the two structures, they could potentially have been operated by the same individuals. The report provides detailed descriptions of the excavated structures and artifacts, and places them in the historical context of land use changes in the local area from the medieval to post-medieval periods.
This archaeological excavation report details the excavation of a post-medieval spade mill and lime kiln located in Coololla, Co. Galway. The spade mill structure was interpreted as a water-powered forge, likely used to produce spades. Stone foundations and a mill race were uncovered. The adjacent lime kiln structure contained evidence of limestone extraction and firing. While these structures were located near one another, there is no evidence they were contemporaneous. The report provides historical background on land use and ownership in the local area from the medieval period through the 17th century, and discusses the excavated structures and artifacts in detail.
This document provides a predictive model of the cultural landscape within the Blackfellow Creek focal area in the Lockyer Valley, Queensland, Australia. It summarizes the archaeological and environmental context of the area to identify locations of potential cultural significance to Indigenous peoples. The model integrates Traditional Owner knowledge with scientific data on geology, landforms, water sources, and vegetation to map invisible cultural sites as well as visible archaeological sites. The goal is to provide guidance for cultural heritage management within the area and establish a framework for ongoing collaboration with Traditional Owners.
The site occurs within an area where a cluster of Bronze Age fulachta fiadh sites have been identified.
Three burnt mounds were recorded (CO019-019, -020 and -021) within 500m of the site, while two other burnt mounds were excavated as part of this road project; Stagpark 2 (04E1121) was 800m away to the north and Mitchelstown 2 (04E1071) was 2km to the north. The intense use of this small area for the purposes of heating stones and water has produced a date range that suggests occupation on a long-term, if perhaps intermittent basis from at least the Early Bronze Age. The lower heavier wetter ground in the area was used for sites such as these. With the exception of the burnt mound at Mitchelstown 2, which was located on the northern bank of the Gradoge River, the remaining burnt mounds are not located adjacent to any known or contemporary water sources. The underlying subsoil is however a heavy clay which holds water very effectively being almost impermeable. The archaeological evidence indicates that contemporary Early Bronze Age occupation occurred on the higher drier ground, at Stagpark 1 (04E1120) 600m to the north. An extensive occupation site, dating to the Middle Bronze Age, was located on a limestone ridge on the northern bank of the Gradoge River at Mitchelstown 1 (04E1072) 2.8km to the north.
The site at Scartbarry has been identified as a Late Bronze Age burnt mound where hot stone technology was used but there is no definite evidence from this site to indicate the specific purpose of heating stones and water in the area; the technology could have been utilised in a variety of processes from cooking and bathing to fulling, felting, boat building and many other industrial processes. The site is just one of many similar monuments that have been discovered in the general area in recent years and it contributes to the widespread evidence for use of hot stones and water in the area in prehistory.
Three phases of archaeological activity were recorded on the site. The earliest phase is a Neolithic house and associated features within Area ІІ. An Early Bronze Age pit was located in Area І some 70m south of the house site. The final phase of activity related to Post-Medieval agricultural practices and included a back-filled ditch within Area ІІ.
A group of over a hundred pits, postholes and stakeholes were located on the hilltop at Stagpark. The features dated from the Early Bronze Age to the Middle Iron Age which would suggest that the hilltop was occupied over a long period of time. Four pits containing burnt fills were recorded in Area A and Area C. The pits were similar in terms of morphology, size and date. The two sets of pits were located within 1m of each other and c. 40m apart. Almost identical Early Bronze Age dates were returned for two of the pits. The pits may have functioned as cremation pits, although minute traces of burnt bone was recorded in only one of the fills. They may also have been utilised for a domestic purpose. One of the two large pits (C.1001) in Area B was dated to the Early Bronze Age. It is difficult to interpret the function of these pits as they are exceptionally large. Stakeholes recorded on the upper sides of pit C.1001, these may have formed a frame or covering for the pit.
The recovery of two sherds of Late Bronze Age coarse ware from a pit, in the vicinity of the hearth-pit C.22, in the northwest section of Area A, would indicate that this area was utilised during the Late Bronze Age. A cluster of three pits and eight stakeholes were located to the southeast of the hearth.
Four of the stakeholes in particular could have formed a shelter around the hearth open to the west.
Although no dating evidence was obtained from the features in the vicinity of the large pits C.66 and C.90 it is possible that they are associated with the Late Bronze Age activity surrounding the hearth C.22.
A Middle Iron Age date was returned from the later re-cut of the large pit C.110. An L-shaped alignment, consisting of three pits, 13 stakeholes and three postholes, extended to the north and east of the pit. The alignment measured c. 6m north-south by 13m east-west. It could be associated with the Middle Iron Age pit C.110, the Early Bronze Age cremation pits or the Late Bronze Age features.
A number of fulachta fiadh were recorded downslope to the north and south of the site. Three burnt mounds were recorded (CO019-019, -020 and -021) within 500m of the site, while four other burnt mounds were excavated as part of this road project; Stagpark 1 (04E1119) was 600m to the south, Stagpark 2 (04E1121) was 200m away to the north and Mitchelstown 2 (04E1071) was 1.5km to the north. The fulachta fiadh are located on heavier clay subsoil. Radiocarbon dates obtained from some of the burnt mounds would suggest that these sites were utilized during the Early Bronze Age.
The site, possibly located on the margins of prehistoric settlement, forms an interesting contrast to a Middle Bronze Age settlement site excavated at Mitchelstown 1 (04E1072). The remains of at least three circular houses were excavated at Mitchelstown 1. The site was located on a limestone ridge on the northern bank of the Gradoge River. The opposing site on the southern bank of the Gradoge River was subsequently occupied by the Anglo Normans in the thirteenth century. The material evidence recorded on site was scant. No associated pits and stakeholes were associated with the structures. It is possible that these features were located outside the route corridor.
The document reports on an archaeological excavation at Ballydowny in Killarney, County Kerry. Five cooking pits (fulachta fiadh), a ring ditch containing a cremation burial, two medieval iron working areas, and a prehistoric site with evidence of copper working were uncovered. Radiocarbon dating indicates occupation from the Neolithic period through the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and into the early medieval period. The excavation revealed remnants of iron smelting and smithing, as well as five cooking pits that were likely used for boiling or steaming food. A ring ditch and associated cremation burial were also found, dating to the Bronze Age.
The moated site comprised a rectangular moated area with an inside bank, a sub-rectangular building, and extensive evidence for activity outside the moat including numerous field boundaries, drains, furrows, working areas, a pottery kiln and a possible bisque firing kiln.
This report details the results of an archaeological excavation carried out at Kiltotan Collinstown 14, Co. Westmeath. The excavation uncovered two parallel post-medieval ditches and two burnt pits that were possibly medieval iron smelting furnaces. Analysis of artefacts, ecofacts and radiocarbon dating provided insights into the medieval and post-medieval activity on the site. The excavated features at this site are similar to others in the surrounding area and add to the understanding of settlement patterns in this rich archaeological landscape over multiple periods.
Archaeological Report - IDA Arklow Business & Technology Park, Ballynattin, C...John Tierney
The site was excavated under licence no. 04E0712. It was divided into ten areas of excavation: Areas 1-6, Area 6W, Area 7, Area 10 and Area 12.The earliest evidence for human activity was an Early Neolithic radiocarbon date obtained from the fill of a ditch in Area 6. However, there is no evidence for associated Early Neolithic activity. Most of the archaeological features excavated at Ballynattin were Bronze Age. Bronze Age pits were found in Area 6W, there was a spread of Bronze Age material in Area 3 and three partial Bronze Age structures were found in Areas 6 and 7. These were truncated and approximately only one third of each structure survived for excavation. A furnace excavated in Area 2 may also be Bronze Age in date; it has no associated radiocarbon dates but a saddle quern and flints were found within the furnace fill. The remaining features excavated at the site were primarily post-medieval, including a hearth excavated in Area 4, drains and ditches (Areas 1, 4 and 5) and a 19th century cobbled surface (Area 5).
Until monitoring of top-soil stripping commenced in 2003 only one archaeological monument was recorded on the site of the current development, Enclosure LI005:037. Following monitoring and subsequent excavation this area now includes records of at least three Late Bronze Age unenclosed flat cremation cemeteries, a ring-ditch in close proximity to one of the smaller cemeteries and the remains of four Fulachta Fiadh.
In Bricketstown townland a number of agricultural features were exposed including a limekiln, land divisions, hearth and stakeholes, a platform with medieval waste and evidence of ridge and furrow cultivation. The main features of the sites included early land divisions (ditches), a work surface with residues from various industrial activities, a hearth surrounded by stakeholes/hearth furniture, later land divisions (ditches) that enclosed ridges and furrows and a kiln. The archaeological evidence from the site is generally indicative of activity associated with agriculture, incorporating a kiln, furrows, boundaries and drainage ditches.
The site consisted of a sub-circular enclosure with a diameter of approximately 36 m; it was initially identified as a crop mark on an aerial photograph, with no trace at ground level. Three sides of the enclosure were formed by two ditches (recorded as the ‘east ditch’ and the ‘west ditch’). The fourth side was characterised by large pits/postholes and slot trenches which probably continued the line of the enclosure, despite the absence of a ditch. The enclosure surrounded a Bronze Age settlement site, with a sub-circular post and stake-built structure excavated near the centre of the enclosed area and an ancillary structure to the west. This report details the results of excavation at the site and the descriptions are broken down into context complexes: the enclosure, the internal structure, the ancillary building, other internal features and external features.
The site comprised a kiln, a small pit, and a field system, evidenced by three ditches. This is one of three kilns discovered during the road development scheme. It was medieval/post-medieval in date and consisted
of a circular main chamber with the flue projecting to the south-southwest. It was probably a limekiln and there was evidence for several periods of use.
This report details the results of an archaeological excavation at a burnt mound site located at Urraghry townland in County Galway. The excavation uncovered a burnt mound, trough, stake-holes, gully, and paleochannel. Radiocarbon dating of charcoal samples indicated Early Bronze Age activity on the site. Mesolithic stone tools were also found, suggesting earlier occupation. The site contributes to understanding prehistoric settlement patterns in the area, with five Bronze Age sites excavated along this portion of a new road development.
The Harristown Little kiln appeared to be a typical key-hole shaped kiln. Two similar kilns were excavated as part of this project, both in Bricketstown townland (licence nos. 00E0476 and 00E0626). The radiocarbon date from this kiln (cal AD 1460-1660) was very close to the date of use at Bricketstown 00E0476 (cal AD 1450-1650). Channels were cut into the bases of both the Bricketstown kilns and these acted as wind tunnels which distributed air evenly through the kiln as it was burning but these were not present at Harristown Little.
The site at Mitchelstown 1 was discovered during archaeological investigations along the route of the Mitchelstown Relief Road. The site comprised three houses constructed in at least two phases, one of the houses having been cut by the other two. The houses were approximately 10m in diameter and were roughly D-shaped in plan, with entrances centrally located on the straight side, facing east. One of the houses showed clear evidence of having had an internal division in the form of a slot trench running between two structural postholes. The slot trench could have held a wattle wall separating the entrance area (approximately one-third of the floor area) from the remainder of the house.
Little evidence was found of the material culture or economy of the inhabitants of the Mitchelstown houses. No pottery was recovered from the site and the few lithics were undiagnostic.
The number of cereal grains recovered from the soil samples was too small to allow any interpretation of the economy or diet of the population. A striking aspect of the environmental material however was the large number of seeds of the Dock family. These are usually considered to be weed seeds brought into houses inadvertently along with cereals. However, that is unlikely here, given the paucity of cereal grains on the site, and it may be that Dock seeds were deliberately gathered as a food source. Parallels for this have been found in Britain and Denmark where Dock seeds have been found in the gut contents of bog bodies.
The Mitchelstown houses have numerous parallels among the growing numbers of Middle Bronze Age houses now being discovered in recent Irish excavations and add to the expanding settlement pattern of the period.
In May 2005, Eachtra Archaeological Projects excavated a fulacht fiadh and an isolated pit in Skehacreggaun td., Mungret. The fulacht fiadh dates to the Middle Bronze Age, within the usual date range for these monument types. The isolated pit is likely to date to the Bronze Age and it contained the only artefact recovered through these archaeological works. The scraper suggests craft and subsistence since prehistoric times.
This document provides an architectural survey of nine sites along the proposed N7 Castletown to Nenagh road scheme in Ireland. It describes the methodology used, which included field inspections and historical research. Each site is then documented with descriptions, photographs, sketches, and historical map extracts. The sites include a former smithy, entrance gates and avenue, several vernacular farm complexes, the remains of a country house and associated buildings, sections of an old road and bridge, and a standing ruin. Recommendations are provided to mitigate impacts to cultural heritage.
The excavations at Kilsheelan, Co. Tipperary uncovered three areas of pits. The pits in two areas (Areas 2 and 3) were isolated and did not contain notable artefacts or environmental evidence. However, at Area 1 there were several pit clusters and artefacts and radiocarbon dates indicated occupation (probably intermittent rather than permanent) during the Early Neolithic.
The site at Ballyvergin comprised one hearth, two ditches, twenty-five stakeholes and a number of pits, some of which may have acted as troughs. It was located close to a stream and heat-shattered stones and charcoal were found in several of the deposits. The site has therefore been interpreted as a burnt mound, although the identification of troughs is tentative. The area of excavation was truncated by later (modern) field ditches.
This technical report summarizes exploration of the Nuuk Gold Province in western Greenland. The project includes four licenses covering over 1,277 km2. Exploration has included geological mapping, sampling, and drilling that has identified gold mineralization at several prospects. The report recommends an exploration program of mapping, prospecting, trenching, and 10,000 m of drilling to evaluate targets and advance the most prospective zones. If results are positive, further exploration and resource drilling would be warranted to determine the economic potential of the project.
Similar to Archaeological Test Excavation Report E2003 Ballybrowney, N8 RF (20)
The Historic Graves Project involves community volunteers conducting archaeological surveys of historic graveyards. Volunteers use GPS cameras and audio recorders to photograph, document, and map over 1,200 headstones across 11 graveyards over two years. For each graveyard, the project creates a folder with a register of graves, a sketch map, contact sheets of photographs, and record sheets. The goal is to explore, protect, and promote awareness of Ireland's historic graveyards.
Public talk by John Tierney on recent work on the O'Daly Bardic School, Dromnea, Sheepshead, Cork and outlining a strategy for community-led heritage projects.
An Introduction to the Ballyhoura Peter Robinson Assisted Emigration ProjectJohn Tierney
This document provides an overview of a genealogical tourism project led by Dr. Paul MacCotter and John Tierney to document the history of families that took part in the Peter Robinson Assisted Emigration from Ireland to Canada in the 1820s-1830s. The project involves surveying graveyards and mapping homestead locations to build an online geolocated database of records. The goal is to help descendants research their ancestry and trace the places their families lived before emigrating. Methods for collecting, organizing, and publishing the historical data online are discussed.
Mendicity Institute Transmission book June-August 1882John Tierney
The document discusses the benefits of meditation for reducing stress and anxiety. Regular meditation practice can help calm the mind and body by lowering heart rate and blood pressure. Studies have shown that meditating for just 10-20 minutes per day can have significant positive impacts on both mental and physical health over time.
From headstone to homestead - crowdsourcing & heritage in IrelandJohn Tierney
This document outlines John Tierney's work with Eachtra Archaeological Projects surveying historic graves and homesteads in Ireland. It provides guidance on conducting graveyard surveys through sketch plans, geotagged photos, and record sheets. It also describes a process for identifying historic homesteads through reconnaissance, geotagged photographs, and publishing findings online and in a shared spreadsheet. The goal is to link Irish emigrant communities both within Ireland through shared heritage sites and records, and with communities abroad where emigrants settled.
Human remains of 48 individuals were discovered and excavated during works associated with the Tuam Town Water Supply Scheme in Toberjarlath townland on the eastern edges of Tuam, County Galway. The burials were located within the bounds of the former Tuam Union Workhouse, which opened in 1846. Eighteen grave pits containing between two and four burials each were uncovered. Analysis showed the individuals were paupers buried in the former workhouse grounds in the 19th century. A section of the workhouse boundary wall and internal ditch were also excavated.
Slides from John Tierney's talk on exploring the heritage of Ardmore in the era of digital research and publication. This talk is part of the www.reyndr.com project being developed by Eachtra in association with a number of community groups.
Community Genealogy in Ireland - Historic GravesJohn Tierney
Community engagement in historic graveyard surveys has a multiplier effect. What started as an archaeological survey of headstones has become community genealogy and local history. This talk was presented to the Irish Genealogical Research Society AGM in May 2013.
The Historic Graves Project is a community collaboration that aims to promote genealogical tourism by pinpointing family names and histories across centuries in graveyards in southeast Cork, Ireland. Volunteers record information from historic graveyards to share online and create puzzles and stories to engage people in learning about the people and families represented in each place through time.
Following the discovery of human remains during archaeological monitoring of engineering trial pits in Sawpit Lane a 1 m wide trench was excavated along Sawpit Lane, Church Lane and The Mall in advance of pipelaying associated with the Tuam Town Water Supply in July 2010. The remains of 15 individuals were recorded and excavated along with a series of ditches and pits. A stone culvert and the remains of a boundary wall were also identified. Two of the skeletons and a bone fragment from the base of one of the ditches returned calibrated radiocarbon dates centring on the seventh century. In addition a smithing hearth cake typical of early iron smithing was recovered from the upper fill of the ditch along with a bone trial motif piece which has sixth/seventh century parallels. The other pits and ditches had fills containing relatively mixed finds and animal bone fragments. The excavated features are located outside the present Temple Jarlath enclosure in the middle of Tuam and close to the site of the early medieval market area and the site of the post-medieval shambles. The pits may have acted as refuse pits for waste and the ditches may have demarcated areas or being used as open drains. The early burial evidence and the early possible enclosing ditch coupled with reports of an early unclassified cross slab suggest that the graveyard and enclosure at Temple Jarlath may be associated with St Jarlath’s original early Christian foundation.
This document provides an archaeological excavation report for Adare Castle in County Limerick, Ireland. It includes:
- A history of Adare Castle from its origins in the medieval period through different periods of occupation.
- A description and maps showing the location of the castle and areas excavated between 2001-2006, including the drawbridge, moat, kitchen, great hall, and two domestic areas.
- Results of the excavations including structures like walls, drains, and pits uncovered, along with artifacts found consisting of pottery, wood, bone, stone, metal, glass and leather objects.
- Environmental evidence from animal bones, plant remains, and shells analyzed to understand life at
Archaeological Report - 50-60 South Main Street, Wexford, Co. WexfordJohn Tierney
Occupation evidence dating to the 13th century and later post medieval activity, in the form of a well and boundary wall, associated with the demolished buildings on Peter Street was excavated. The medieval activity was recorded at the central southern part of the site. The area of excavation measured 11.5m north-south by 12m east-west.
All the pits in the excavation trench were medieval in date and are likely to have served as rubbish dumps. The artefactual material and the faunal remains recovered from the various fills would support this hypothesis. There was no evidence that they were used for industrial practises, though waste material from industrial activity was mixed with domestic refuse. They were located in the area of the medieval house burgage plots. No evidence of medieval structures was recorded. It is likely to exist under the foundations of the existing upstanding structures on South Main Street.
The pottery assemblage from the site was examined by the ceramic specialist Clare McCutcheon. The majority of the pottery consisted of local and Irish wares, comprising of Lenister Cooking ware, Wexford-type coarse ware, ware, fine ware and cooking ware. The English wares consisted of Minety-type, Ham Green and Redcliffe wares. The Wexford-type wares indicate local pottery production, although no medieval pottery kilns have as yet been located in Wexford. The French wares particularly the Saintonge ware, from the southwest of France, jugs, represented the wealthier tastes.
The greatest proportion of archaeological features encountered at Shandon relate to Medieval activity. While nothing dateable was recovered from the sub-rectangular enclosure ditch itself, the discovery of 12th/13th century pottery from features inside and immediately outside the enclosure provides a strong case that the ditch is contemporaneous.
It must be considered a possibility that the enclosure at Shandon is a Medieval moated site. The latter have been defined as “all rectangular enclosures bounded by banks and moats of Medieval date, whether they enclosed a major house or simply a garden or cattle pen” (Barry 1987, 84). While there was no definite evidence of a bank at Shandon, there is a suggestion that one may have existed. Moated sites date to the 13th and 14th century (ibid., 85) and the local pottery found at Shandon overlaps with this date range.
It must also be considered that the Shandon enclosure relates to Hiberno-Norse activity. Prior to the present work, the motif piece was the sole indicator of such activity. However, this find is now further substantiated by the discovery of an 11th century Hiberno-Norse coin (Plate 12). Because of preservation by redesign and avoidance, a large proportion of archaeological features at Shandon were not excavated and consequently it is quite possible that further diagnostic Hiberno-Norse material survives on the site. However, one coin and a trial piece do not a Hiberno-Norse settlement make and it is plausible that the coin was deposited in Anglo-Norman times long after its original period of manufacture and use.
The buildings to the rear of 26 Patrick St. were demolished. The area of the extension to the rear to the hotel measured 20m by 13m. The area of excavation was bounded by a stone wall to the south, by a building site to the north and west and by the Georgian building, 26 Patrick St., due for refurbishment to the east.
Occupation evidence dating to the 13th century and later post medieval activity associated with the demolished extension to 26 Patrick St. was excavated. The medieval activity was recorded at the western side of the site. Post-medieval construction, associated with the red brick foundations of the extension to the rear of the Georgian building which fronts onto Patrick St., had truncated medieval activity at the eastern end. The destroyed earlier medieval activity is evidenced by the occurrence of both medieval and post-medieval pottery in the same strata.
Archaeological excavation of the site at Busherstown revealed a complex multi-period site with six phases of activity. In broad outline they confirmed the use of the area from the Early Neolithic period to the present time. The first period of activity was prehistoric in date and comprised a small assemblage of lithics and a circular structure (Structure A) dated on typological grounds to the Bronze Age. The second phase was dated to the early medieval period, when the area was used for cereal processing, as evidenced by the discovery of at least 17 cereal-drying kilns and a further seven possible kilns. The majority of the kilns were located in a line that extended for a distance of 80 m in a NW-SE direction. The firing chambers of the kiln were for the most part located at the NE. A small number of the kilns were partially enclosed (Structures D and E). The third phase of activity was defined by an enclosure (ditches C.68 and 447) which was probably contemporary with the cereal processing. The continuous use of the area of the enclosure in the medieval period was confirmed when certain areas of the site were enclosed through the construction of deep, wide ditches (ditches C.54 and C.63). The ditches (ditches C.227 and C.78) were re-cut in the later medieval period to function as an annexe to a moated site. A substantial ditch, 5.5 m wide by 1.7 m deep, defined the moated site. Only the southern corner of the moated site was located within the road corridor. However, the entire outline can be clearly seen in aerial photographs of the adjoining field to the north-east. Two structures (C and D) were contemporary with the moated site. The post-medieval period was represented by a large number of furrows crossing the site and material which had been dumped into the top fills of the ditches. The site was levelled in the recent past.
Authors: Ewelina Chrobak, Jacinta Kiely and Tori McMorran
Geophysical Survey: Land Adjacent to Archaeological Sites - County Offaly & C...John Tierney
This document provides details of archaeological geophysical surveys conducted at 5 sites - Busherstown 1, Drumbaun 2, Drumroe 1, Killeisk 1, and Park 1 - located along the route of a new road scheme in Counties Offaly and Tipperary, Ireland. Magnetic gradiometer and susceptibility surveys were used to investigate the archaeological remains found during previous excavations. The surveys identified potential archaeological features extending beyond the excavation areas, including ditches, enclosures, and field boundaries, adding to the understanding of activity at these sites. The results provide valuable information to planners but require verification through archaeological excavation.
The excavation of the site at Moneygall 2 comprised a single pit of unknown date. The site is located in Moneygall townland, Cullenwaine parish, Offaly county. Jacinta Kiely directed the excavation and authored the excavation report. The pit was excavated and no datable artifacts or features were uncovered, so the date of the feature remains unknown.
Archaeological Report - Park 2, Co. Tipperary (Ireland)John Tierney
The excavation of the site at Park comprised a substantial mound of burnt material. The mound measured 32 m by 16 m by 0.5 m in depth. It overlay a trough, a well and two pits. Evidence of trough-side furniture in the form of 17 stake-holes and two post-holes was recorded at the western end of the trough. Two Middle Bronze Age radiocarbondates were returned from a fill of the trough and the well. Small quantities of plant remains and animal bone were recovered from the site.
Andreas Schleicher presents PISA 2022 Volume III - Creative Thinking - 18 Jun...EduSkills OECD
Andreas Schleicher, Director of Education and Skills at the OECD presents at the launch of PISA 2022 Volume III - Creative Minds, Creative Schools on 18 June 2024.
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إضغ بين إيديكم من أقوى الملازم التي صممتها
ملزمة تشريح الجهاز الهيكلي (نظري 3)
💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀
تتميز هذهِ الملزمة بعِدة مُميزات :
1- مُترجمة ترجمة تُناسب جميع المستويات
2- تحتوي على 78 رسم توضيحي لكل كلمة موجودة بالملزمة (لكل كلمة !!!!)
#فهم_ماكو_درخ
3- دقة الكتابة والصور عالية جداً جداً جداً
4- هُنالك بعض المعلومات تم توضيحها بشكل تفصيلي جداً (تُعتبر لدى الطالب أو الطالبة بإنها معلومات مُبهمة ومع ذلك تم توضيح هذهِ المعلومات المُبهمة بشكل تفصيلي جداً
5- الملزمة تشرح نفسها ب نفسها بس تكلك تعال اقراني
6- تحتوي الملزمة في اول سلايد على خارطة تتضمن جميع تفرُعات معلومات الجهاز الهيكلي المذكورة في هذهِ الملزمة
واخيراً هذهِ الملزمة حلالٌ عليكم وإتمنى منكم إن تدعولي بالخير والصحة والعافية فقط
كل التوفيق زملائي وزميلاتي ، زميلكم محمد الذهبي 💊💊
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Level 3 NCEA - NZ: A Nation In the Making 1872 - 1900 SML.pptHenry Hollis
The History of NZ 1870-1900.
Making of a Nation.
From the NZ Wars to Liberals,
Richard Seddon, George Grey,
Social Laboratory, New Zealand,
Confiscations, Kotahitanga, Kingitanga, Parliament, Suffrage, Repudiation, Economic Change, Agriculture, Gold Mining, Timber, Flax, Sheep, Dairying,
Philippine Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) CurriculumMJDuyan
(𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝟏𝟎𝟎) (𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝟏)-𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐬
𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐏𝐏 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐮𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬:
- Understand the goals and objectives of the Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) curriculum, recognizing its importance in fostering practical life skills and values among students. Students will also be able to identify the key components and subjects covered, such as agriculture, home economics, industrial arts, and information and communication technology.
𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫:
-Define entrepreneurship, distinguishing it from general business activities by emphasizing its focus on innovation, risk-taking, and value creation. Students will describe the characteristics and traits of successful entrepreneurs, including their roles and responsibilities, and discuss the broader economic and social impacts of entrepreneurial activities on both local and global scales.
A Visual Guide to 1 Samuel | A Tale of Two HeartsSteve Thomason
These slides walk through the story of 1 Samuel. Samuel is the last judge of Israel. The people reject God and want a king. Saul is anointed as the first king, but he is not a good king. David, the shepherd boy is anointed and Saul is envious of him. David shows honor while Saul continues to self destruct.
This presentation was provided by Rebecca Benner, Ph.D., of the American Society of Anesthesiologists, for the second session of NISO's 2024 Training Series "DEIA in the Scholarly Landscape." Session Two: 'Expanding Pathways to Publishing Careers,' was held June 13, 2024.
2. A report on the archaeological test excavation of a
proposed farm access trackway at
Ballybrowney Lower,
N8 Rathcormac - Fermoy Bypass,
Rathcormac,
Co. Cork
June 2010
Client: Direct Route (Fermoy) Construction Ltd.
Rosemound Business Park,
Ballycoolin Park,
Dublin 11
E Number: E2003
Ministerial Order No.: A014/005
Contact details:
The Forge,
Innishannon, Co. Cork.
Written by: Mick Drumm, John Tierney Tel.: 021 470 16 16
Fax: 021 470 16 28
E-mail: info@eachtra.ie
Produced by: Web Site: www.eachtra.ie
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Table of Contents
i Project details ...............................................................................................v
ii Non-Technical Summary ....................................................................................v
1 Introduction .......................................................................................................1
2 Site location and topography...............................................................................1
3 Archaeological and Historical background..........................................................2
4 Works description ...............................................................................................5
4.1 Description of proposed works .....................................................................5
5 Archaeological results .........................................................................................5
5.1 General comments .......................................................................................5
5.2 Western Trenches .........................................................................................5
5.3 Eastern Trenches ..........................................................................................6
5.4 Ringfort Trenches ........................................................................................7
5.5 Conclusions ..................................................................................................7
5.6 Radiocarbon Results.....................................................................................9
6 Potential impact of the proposed development on the known archaeology ......... 10
7 Recommendations ............................................................................................. 10
8 Bibliography ...................................................................................................... 11
9 Appendices ........................................................................................................ 13
9.1 Appendix 1..................................................................................................13
9.2 Appendix 2..................................................................................................13
9.3 Appendix 3..................................................................................................14
10 Figures ............................................................................................................... 17
11 Plates .................................................................................................................28
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List of Figures
Figure 1: Discovery 1:50,000 site location map ....................................................................................17
Figure 2: 1st edition OS map 1842 .......................................................................................................18
Figure 3: 2nd edition OS map 1935 ......................................................................................................18
Figure 4: Trench location ......................................................................................................................19
Figure 5: Trench location with geophysical survey results .................................................................... 20
Figure 6: Trench location with geophysical survey results closer view ...................................................21
Figure 7a: Trench B detail .....................................................................................................................22
Figure 7b: Trench B ..............................................................................................................................23
Figure 8: Trench D .............................................................................................................................. 24
Figure 9: Sections..................................................................................................................................25
Figure 10: Digital terrain model of N side of ringfort ...........................................................................26
Figure 11: 2 D model of ringfort superimposed on OS data ..................................................................27
List of Plates
Plate 1: Trench A F2 and F3 from E......................................................................................................28
Plate 2: Trench B3 General mid-excavation view of trench showing F1 the enclosure in the foreground28
Plate 3: Trench D General view of trench from SSW showing line of masonry F1 running parallel to field
boundary visible in the background. .....................................................................................................29
Plate 4: Trench B3 View of south facing section in F1 enclosure ditch and posthole/ stone socket F7 and
F2. 29
Plate 5: Trench B2 View of west facing section through F1 enclosure ditch. F4 the post medieval ditch
which truncates F1 is visible in the left of the frame..............................................................................30
Plate 6: Trench B1 View of east facing section through F1 enclosure ditch ...........................................30
Plate 7: Trench B3 View of post medieval/ modern ditch from NE .......................................................31
Plate 8: Trench C View of trench showing E-W line of large stones and field boundary to north in the
background ...........................................................................................................................................31
Plate 9: Trench D, View of southern half of trench, showing F.1 (line of stones) at frame left and ditch at
frame right. ...........................................................................................................................................32
Plate 10: Trench E, View of west facing section through trench, line of stones F1 is visible in the fore-
ground. 32
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i Project details
Project N8 Rathcormac Fermoy Bypass Scheme
Site Name Ballybrowney Lower
Licence No. A014/005
E No. E2003
Licensee John Tierney
Townland Ballybrowney Lower
Nat. Grid Ref. 179055 90702 – 179105 90705
Report Type Testing Report
Report Status Final Report
Date of Submission July 2006
Distribution Ken Hanley, Project Archaeologist Cork County Council, Dept. of the Envi-
ronment, Heritage and Local Government, National Museum of Ireland, Cork Archaeological Survey
Office, and Direct Route (Fermoy) Construction Ltd.
ii Non-Technical Summary
Eachtra Archaeological Projects was engaged to carry out an archaeological assessment with test ex-
cavations at Ballybrowney Lower, Rathcormac, Co Cork in November and December of 2005. These
works are carried out as part of the N8 Rathcormac-Fermoy Bypass which is a Public Private Partner-
ship (PPP) scheme involving Cork Co Council, the NRA and Direct Route construction. These works
occurred within the extent of the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the scheme.
As part of the accommodations works for the N8 Fermoy/Rathcormac Bypass, Cork County Council
is required to provide right-of-way farm access through lands belonging to a landowner (Mr. P. Pyne),
in Ballybrowney Lower, Rathcormac, Co. Cork. A tri-vallate ringfort, CO044-029 is located in the
same field as the right-of-way farm access. A gradiometry survey was carried out on the site by Sub-
strata Ltd. The farm access could have an impact on a sub-rectangular enclosure and the upstanding
ringfort. Part of the enclosure was excavated within the road corridor under licence 03E1058 by E.
Cotter for ACS Ltd.
This report outlines the results of the testing of the access road. Fourteen test trenches were excavated
along route option A. These were located in three main groups. An early Medieval date (UB6958 cal
AD 780-979) was obtained from the ditch of the enclosure and an Neolithic date (UB 6962 cal BC
3966-3717) from a pit located on the interior of the enclosure.
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1 Introduction
Eachtra Archaeological Projects was engaged to carry out an archaeological assessment with test ex-
cavations at Ballybrowney Lower, Rathcormac, Co Cork in November and December of 2005. These
works are carried out as part of the N8 Rathcormac-Fermoy Bypass which is a Public Private Partner-
ship (PPP) scheme involving Cork Co Council, the NRA and Direct Route construction. These works
occurred within the extent of the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the scheme.
As part of the accommodations works for the N8 Fermoy/Rathcormac Bypass, Cork County Council
is required to provide right-of-way farm access through lands belonging to a landowner (Mr. P. Pyne),
in Ballybrowney Lower, Rathcormac, Co. Cork.
This document outlines the results of the archaeological testing of the proposed access route. The aim
of the testing was to carry out a detailed archaeological impact assessment (by means of invasive test
trenching) of the proposed access alignment (Route A), which was scheduled in the published CPO for
the scheme. The works were carried out as per the method statement prepared by Ken Hanley (Project
Archaeologist), in consultation with the department of the Environment, Heritage and local Govern-
ment. Fourteen test trenches were excavated and recorded, under Ministerial Order No.A014/005 and
E number 2003.
More recently (since the publication of the CPO) alternative options have also been notionally consid-
ered, namely options B and C. These were provisionally assessed by means of a magnetometry survey,
however it was decided to conduct a full archaeological impact assessment on the scheduled route,
Option A. If Options B&C are to be archaeologically tested they will require a separate archaeological
excavation licence as they lie outside the CPO line for the scheme.
2 Site location and topography
The site is situated on a gentle SE facing slope overlooking the Bride river. The site has commanding
views over the surrounding countryside on all sides except to the west. The field where the proposed
development is to take place has been variously used for pasture and arable agriculture in recent times.
The site is located approx 2.2 km to the west of Rathcormac village, just off the Rathcormac to Glen-
ville road.
The immediate environs to the field where the proposed development is to take place are the newly
constructed N8 bypass to the east, a demesne wall to the north beyond which lay a large open field,
and local access roads to the south and west, beyond which lay further fields in pasture. The current
farm access into the field is in the SW corner at Maulane crossroads.
The field is situated between 200 and 300m O.D. The landscape surrounding the site generally com-
prises gently rolling, open farmland, combined with wooded river valleys and Old Red Sandstone
ridges.
The principal watercourses in the area are the Rivers Bride and Blackwater.
Brown podzolics, which are particularly suited to pasture and constitute the predominant soil type
within Cork County, are found in this area. The geology of the area broadly consists of glacial deposits
with some alluvial sediments in the river valleys. Low-lying areas are occasionally peaty. The Bride
River valley is founded on Waulsortian limestone (GSI Sheet 22, Bedrock Geology 1:100,000 map).
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To the west of Rathcormac village, on the higher ground of the Bride valley, the Waulsortian limestone
is supplanted by the red and purple mudstones and pale red sandstones of the Ballytrasna Formation
(ibid.). To the north, the Bride valley is flanked by an extension of the Nagles Mountains comprising
a sandstone ridge.
3 Archaeological and Historical background
Volume 2 of the Archaeological Inventory of County Cork (Power et al. 1994). records a total of 2717
archaeological monuments within south and east Cork. Over a quarter of the sites recorded in this
volume date to the prehistoric period many of these are Fulachta fiadh. Approximately 45% of the
monuments recorded in Volume 2 comprise Early Medieval sites, with ringforts constituting the most
common site type of this period.
The earliest known human occupation of Ireland dates to the Mesolithic period (c. 7000-4000 BC).
The Blackwater Valley has yielded some confirmation of Mesolithic activity along its banks, in the
form of flint scatters at Castleblagh and Kilcummer Lower (Power et al. 2000, 2). These sites are lo-
cated between 10 km and 12 km from Ballybrowney.
A number of fulachta fiadh, which have been listed in the Record of Monuments and Places, occur
within close proximity to the bypass. Fulachta fiadh have been interpreted as ancient cooking places,
usually surviving as ‘small horseshoe-shaped mounds of charcoal-enriched soil packed with fragments
of heat-shattered stones’ (Power et al. 1994, 24). Where these features have been truncated through
ploughing, they appear as black spreads. They are generally situated close to a water source such as
streams or marshy terrain. They comprise a water-filled trough or rectangular pit, lined with either
timber planks or stone in which food was cooked. Water in the trough was heated by ‘rolling hot stones
into it from a fire close by’. The heat-shattered stones were removed from the trough after cooking and
deposited to the side. After many cooking episodes, these stones formed a mound surrounding three
sides of the trough. There are over 300 of these monuments in the east and south Cork region, recorded
in the Archaeological Inventory of County Cork Vol II (Power et al. 1994.
During the centreline test excavations of the road corridor, further fulachta fiadh were encountered and
subsequently resolved by ACS Ltd. These included ‘Corrin 4’, excavated under licence 03E1463, and
two burnt mounds at ‘Corrin 6’, excavated under licence number 03E1636 (Aidan O’Connell pers.
comm.). A further two fulachta fiadh were excavated by Eachtra Archaeological Projects at Scartbarry
under Ministerial Order A014/002 and at Fermoy Wood under licence 04E1014.
The remains of a ring-barrow were also discovered during the advanced archaeological testing of the
route corridor at Skahanagh North, to the northeast of Watergrasshill (Eamonn Cotter pers. comm.).
These prehistoric monuments comprise a low, ‘usually circular mound or level area, enclosed by a
fosse and external bank’ (Power et al. 1994, 55). Burial deposits, often in the form of a cremation and
‘sometimes enclosed in a stone box or cist’ have been uncovered within these features during excava-
tion (ibid.). These burial forms have been assigned to the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages (ibid.).
Corrin Hill is a prominent landscape element when viewed from the site. The summit of the hill is
dominated by a Bronze-Age burial cairn, which when investigated in the 1830s, was found to contain
two burials (Doody 1999, 103). A further addition to the apex of this hill is a hillfort known as ‘Carn
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Tigherna’ or ‘Carntierna’. Hillforts date from the Late Bronze Age into the Iron Age (500 BC – 500
AD). The monument concerned is one of just three sites in North Cork which conforms to Raftery’s
definition of a ‘hillfort’ (Power et al. 2000, 205). The fort has been disturbed on its eastern side, but
formerly stood to a height of 19 feet in 1886 (Power quoting Ó Murchú, ibid., 178). A Discovery Pro-
gramme survey carried out in 1995, revealed additional features such as complex external earthworks
and entrances which were previously unrecorded (www.discoveryprogramme.ie). The Claidh Dubh, a
linear earthwork measuring 22.5 km in length (Power et al. 2000, 203), occurs to the west of the fort,
stretching from the Nagles Mountains to the Ballyhoura Hills, crossing the Blackwater approximately
11 km to the west of Fermoy. Such earthworks are believed to have defended tribal boundaries (ibid.).
Doody’s investigations of the Claidh Dubh have shown that it dates prior to 100 AD (www.excava-
tions.ie). The contemporaneity and proximity of the hillfort at Corrin to the Claidh Dubh could sug-
gest that this area was a centre of regional or provincial power in the Iron Age.
During centreline test excavations carried out by ACS Ltd., a Bronze Age settlement complex was
discovered and subsequently excavated by Eamonn Cotter under licence 03E1058. This site, located
in the townland of Ballybrowney Lower, predominantly comprised four enclosures and four houses
and a corn drying kiln (Cotter 2005, 38). Enclosure 4 extended beyond the area of the excavation to
the west into the area of the proposed development under examination here (described as feature 1
throughout this assessment).
Prior to the Anglo-Norman invasion of the region, East Cork was dominated by the Uí Líatháin tribe.
The Uí Líatháin territory spanned an area extending south from the Corrin and Castlelyons region
towards Cork Harbour and east towards Lismore and Youghal. The main focus of settlement in this
period was the ringfort, described as a ‘circular or roughly circular area’, spanning 25-50 m in diameter
and ‘enclosed by an earthen bank’ (Power et al. 1994, 77). The archaeological excavation of these sites
has indicated that they served as defended farmsteads in the Early Medieval period. Their earthworks
protected against ‘natural predators like wolves as well as the local warfare and cattle raiding com-
mon at the time’ (ibid.). They are generally located on gentle hillslopes with commanding views of the
surrounding landscape. Few of these monuments are apparent towards the northern end of the road
scheme, however, concentrations of these structures occur on higher ground, for example, within the
Bride Valley. Recorded sites occur at Skahanagh North, Skahanagh South and at Scartbarry, as well as
at Mondaniel and Corrin. Some of these sites have been levelled and are only apparent through carto-
graphic analysis or in aerial photographs, e.g the site at Lisnagar demesne located approx 1.2 km to the
northeast of the proposed development. Recorded in the inventory as a subcircular univalate enclosure
identified through aerial photography as a cropmark (for full entry see appendix 1). Etymologically
the ‘lis’ element of lisnagar is cognate with the gaelic word Lios, a term which was used to denote a
ringfort. The trivallate nature of the Ballybrowney ringfort marks it as being a high status settlement.
Most ringforts are univallate, i.e that is they have a single enclosing ditch and bank, the majority of the
population of free individuals would have resided in this type of ringfort, these would be the classes of
free farmers who made up the bulk of the population. “Because the contemporary law tracts describe
a kings principal dwelling to have been a univallate ringfort some notion is obtained of the lofty status
of bivallate, and extremely rare trivallate, sites.” Nationally, as a percentage only 18% of ringforts are
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multivallate. For example in County Wexford where ringforts once numbered around 600 examples
and where 150 are still extant, only 4 trivallate examples are known. In several areas where the dis-
tribution and morphology of ringforts have been studied, a figure of roughly one fifth of sites being
multivallate (the majority of which being bivallate) has been found to be consistent. According to Stout
“this is itself evidence for a consistent and widespread settlement hierarchy which must mirror a similar
social stratification”. The trivallate ringfort at Ballybrowney lower is one of only a handful of such sites
in the county and this site type was likely the preserve of the very apex of the early medieval society.
“It is also likely, because of the highly stratified nature of early medieval Irish society, that it was
important to demonstrate power, prestige and wealth. For the upper echelons one of the most visible
ways of displaying these was by constructing, with the aid of base-client and slave labour, an imposing
residence set in a prominent position, with formidable enclosures and a highly fortified entrance”. The
ringfort at Ballybrowney Lower is most certainly an imposing residence set in a prominent location
with formidable defences. To date three examples of trivallate ringforts have been excavated in the
county. Lisnacaheragh, Garranes, Ballyrobert and Ballycatten. At Ballyrobert no features or finds were
found but the presence of a triple enclosure was confirmed. At Lisncaheragh or Garranes the ringfort
has been the subject of a long running research and training excavation undertaken by University
College Cork. This site is located approx 20km to the south of Ballybrowney. Finds included several
structures including a roundhouse and a sherd of imported –E- ware. The ringfort at Balycatteen
which was excavated in 1941-2 by Sean P O’Riordain and P.J./ Hartnett produced a wealth of material
which is indicative of the high status of a trivallate site. The site produced an occupation layer dated
artefactually to the period in and around 600 A.D. The material assemblage included glass and amber
beads, crucible fragments, 12 bronze and 23 iron objects and numerous whetstones. A kiln was also
found. This site indicates the type and wealth of the material which would be encountered on a high
status trivallate ringfort. However as so few of these monuments have been excavated in the county
or nationally, very little is archaeologically known about them. In County Cork only three trivallate
ringforts (see above for details) have been excavated and only just over 20 examples have been exca-
vated to date out of a total ringfort population of approximately 3331 examples. Or just over 0.6% of
the examples in the county
The ringfort (RMP N0. CO, 044-029) affected by the proposed development is described in the ar-
chaeological inventory of county Cork, Volume 2, East and south Cork, as a circular area defined by
three earthen banks with intervening fosses. (for full entry see appendix 1)
Both the 1st edition OS map (1842) and the 2nd edition OS map show a field boundary cutting diago-
nally across the field from Maulane crossroads towards the SE quadrant of the ringfort.
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4 Works description
4.1 Description of proposed works
It is intended to construct a farm access road through the field that the ringfort (RMP N0.: CO, 044-
029) is situated in, to a small field where there is currently no access to, adjacent to the N8. The road
is to be constructed under the following methodology,
To construct an access road on top of the existing topsoil using a geotextile over the existing
topsoil surface
Type 1c rock fill to suitable grades
150mm sub-base and surfacing
To use a timber driven fence Type F1 to NRA specification
To plant suitable hedging along the fence line
The CPO extended from the 3rd class road in the west to the western edge of the new road. The
CPO is between 8-15 m in width.
The proposed access road is 3 m in width
5 Archaeological results
5.1 General comments
A gradiometry survey was carried out on the site by Substrata Ltd. This survey did not cover the entire
field. It focused on the three proposed routes A, B and C. The area where Option A runs along the
N side of the ringfort and the northern field boundary was not surveyed due to the presence of dense
scrubby undergrowth. Several areas of heightened responses were identified; these may indicate areas
of archaeological potential. Several of the areas of heightened responses were found to correlate closely
with the location of features identified in the test trenches for Option A.
Archaeological field walking took place within the line of the proposed route. A topographic survey
was carried out by Eachtra Archaeological Projects in the area of scrubby woodland on the N side of
the ringfort.
Fourteen test trenches were excavated along route option A. These were located in three main groups.
A, A.1, A.2, A.3 and A.4 were located to the west of the ringfort. B, B.1, B.2, B.3, F and G were located
to the east of the ringfort, and C, D and E were located between the ringfort and the northern field
boundary. Trenches A.1, A.2, A.3 and A.4 were devoid of any archaeological features.
5.2 Western Trenches
Trench A (45 m x 2 m)
Several features of post medieval or later date were identified. No features of archaeological signifi-
cance were identified in this trench. No further archaeological measures are deemed necessary in this
trench.
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5.3 Eastern Trenches
Trench B (38 m x 2 m)
Several features of post medieval or later date were identified. No features of archaeological signifi-
cance were identified in this trench. No further archaeological measures are deemed necessary in this
trench.
Trench B.1 (7 m x 2 m)
Several features of post medieval or later date were identified. One feature of archaeological signifi-
cance was identified. This was an E-W running linear ditch (F.1). This ditch was thought to be the
continuation of a ditch identified in the two trenches to the east of B.1. The ditch is believed to be the
continuation of an Iron Age enclosure ditch which had been previously partially excavated by Eamonn
Cottter. The orientation and morphology of the ditch F.1 closely correspond with the Feature F.1 in
trench B.2. The results of the geophysics also identified a linear feature of similar dimensions in this
location. This ditch is felt to represent the northern side of the Iron Age enclosure.
Trench B2 (10 m x 2 m)
Several features of post medieval or later date were identified. One feature of archaeological signifi-
cance was identified. This was a linear ditch (F.1) of probable Iron Age date. This represents the north-
ern side of a sub rectangular enclosure.
Trench B.3 (15 m x 2 m)
Several features of post medieval or later date were identified. One feature of archaeological signifi-
cance was identified. This was a linear ditch (F.1) of probable Iron Age date. This represents the eastern
side of a sub rectangular enclosure. The ditch extends beyond the current site boundary to the SSE.
The area beyond the current fence line was previously excavated by Eamonn Cotter, where the portion
of the ditch was fully excavated. It produced deposits dated to the Iron Age.
Trench F (8.7 m x 2 m)
This small trench was located immediately to the west of trench B. The reason this trench was exca-
vated was to ascertain if the feature F.1, identified in trench B1, was a linear feature or part of a sub
rectangular enclosure. The ditch F.1 identified in trench B.1 was not found in trench F. An area in the
west of trench F was found to contain a depression filled with large rounded to sub angular stones. As
this feature was located adjacent to a N-S running drystone built field wall it was felt to represent a
collapse of the wall into a shallow depression.
Trench G (16 m x 2 m)
This small trench was located on the southern edge of the CPO. of the proposed route. Based on the
geophysical data it was felt that the Iron Age sub rectangular enclosure would be present as a north
south running ditch. This was found to be the case. The feature F.1 was located 9 m from the western
edge of the trench.
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Several shallow post medieval and modern linear features were also identified in this trench
5.4 Ringfort Trenches
Trench C (8 m x 1.3 m)
This small trench was located between the middle bank of the ringfort and the northern field bound-
ary. The middle ditch of the ringfort was identified, this was quite shallow but recognisable. To the
north of this was located an E-W line of large stones. These stones run parallel to the northern field
boundary. These are the remnants of a stone French drain which may have acted as a revetment to the
raised area located to their north. This raised area was composed of a compacted stony orange brown
natural and can be related to the partially levelled outer ringfort bank. The outer bank has not been
fully levelled by the trackway.
Trench D (11 m x 1.3 m)
This small trench was located between the middle bank of the ringfort and the northern demesne wall.
In this trench the middle bank of the ringfort was identified. This trench was deeper than in trench C
but still relatively shallow. The line of stones, French drain (F.2), running E-W was identified in this
trench also. As in Trench C these were located at the base of where the third and outer bank begins
to rise up, effectively in the ditch. A second line of larger stones was identified here (F.3). These were
located approx 0.2m to the north of the first and lower set of stones. These were larger and the soil to
their north was approx 0.4 m higher than the lower set of stones. The raised area to the immediate
north of the second and bigger set of stones can be equated with the truncated remains of the third
and outer bank.
Trench E (11 m x 1.3 m)
This small trench was located between the middle bank of the ringfort and the northern field bound-
ary. The line of E-W running stones, a drain (F.2 in Trench D), was present within this trench also.
Here they appear to be almost central to the middle ditch. The part of the ditch to the north appears
to have been deliberately filled with an orange clay sediment.
5.5 Conclusions
Two main areas of high archaeological significance were identified during the testing of the proposed
route option A. These were a sub rectangular enclosure and the upstanding enclosure elements of the
ringfort.
The outer bank and ditch of the ringfort are still intact to a large degree and are visible on the surface
within the CPO line. The area is heavily overgrown with mature and semi-mature trees and a dense
understorey of secondary growth. Despite this, and despite having been truncated by the insertion of
a trackway cutting through the outer bank and the construction of a stone revetment and drain on its
southern side, the outer enclosing elements of the ringfort are to a large degree extant.
The insertion of a modern trackway in this location would have a severe negative impact on the north-
ern enclosing elements of the ringfort. The surviving outer bank would be masked by the new track
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materials and there would also be a risk of compaction of the subsurface remains.
The trackway which had previously been created in this location, perhaps contemporary with the
construction of the demesne wall, or alternatively with the church within the ringfort, would have
been manually constructed. The creation of a modern trackway which would most likely be carried
out by mechanical digger would be far more damaging to the monuments integrity. Also the use of
this trackway by more than pedestrian traffic would probably lead to compaction of the underlying
archaeologically deposits.
The outer ringfort banks were cut through to allow a track to run parallel and to the south of the
northern field boundary, (which was the Lisnagar demesne wall). It is likely that the outer bank was
partially levelled to create this track. To the southern side of the track would have been the middle
ditch of the ringfort which, with a minimum of labour could have been canalised to create a drain
running parallel and to the south of the track. A stone revetment was placed at the southern edge of
this track.
The track may be related to the Roman Catholic chapel of probable late or post-medieval date which
was located within the ringfort enclosure.
The trenches C, D and E found that the third outer bank of the ringfort whilst in a degraded form was
still present. Between the outer bank and middle bank was located a shallow ditch. The ditch appears
to have been straightened along part of its course to run parallel with the northern field boundary. The
area of the outer bank has been partially levelled to create a path or track running parallel with the field
boundary. places the path has cut through the ringfort bank and has left a gap (approx 4m in width)
to the northwest and to the northeast.
The enclosure had been previously partially excavated during works on the centreline of the road. The
test trench layout was designed to catch the ditch as it entered the area of the proposed route. A sub
rectangular feature had been identified on the gradiometry survey. This was thought to correspond to
the continuation of the enclosure ditch. The test trench layout was designed to establish the veracity
of this theory.
The enclosure (F.1) was identified in trenches B.1 where it was running N-S, Trenches B.2 and B.3
where it ran E-W and trench G where it again ran N-S. The ditch was felt to correspond closely with
the rectangular anomaly identified in the geo-physical survey. The enclosure measures approx 18 m E-
W by 22m N-S. The enclosure ditch (F.1) maintained a consistent width of approx 1.6m in its eastern,
northern and western sides. Depth varied between 0.4 and 0.5m.
The location shape and nature of the enclosure was confirmed during the testing. The results from the
test trenches were found to correlate closely with the geophysical survey results. The ditch morphology
was found to remain very similar around its periphery. Five sections were excavated into the enclosure
ditch in four trenches. Two sections were excavated into the eastern part of the ditch, two in the north-
ern and one in the western. All of the trenches share a similar if not identical morphology.
The visual impact of the farm track on the archaeology within this field would be minimised by keep-
ing within Option A. As the physical impact of option A is negative the other options should now be
explored. The visual impacts of the alternative options may be minimised my altering the proposed
fencing and planting design. Laying a simple track with no fence or associated planting may produce
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the minimal visual ‘footprint’ required.
The corn drying kiln located approx 70m to the SE previously excavated by Eamonn Cotter produced
was radiocarbon dated to Cal AD 630-780 (Beta 201043). This date range ties in closely with the pe-
riod of construction and occupation of ringforts
A series of boundary ditches of unknown date were previously excavated by Eamonn Cotter to
the east of the area tested. These ditches were not dated but as they cut the corn drying kiln of the
7th/8th c. AD they were known to be later than this date. Boundary ditches of similar morphology, fill
and orientation were found to be present along the route of the proposed access route. They produced
several pieces of coarse 18th and 19th century coarse glazed earthenware. It is felt that these ditches cor-
respond to the ditches previously excavated to the east of the proposed access route.
Two dates were obtained from the fill of the ditch of the enclosure (enclosure 4) the earlier Iron Age
date (cal AD 120-340 Beta 201052) comes from the base of the ditch and the early medieval date (cal
AD 610-870 Beta 203724) comes from the layer above.
5.6 Radiocarbon Results
Radiocarbon dates were returned from the Radiocarbon Laboratory at Queens University Belfast.
These were accelerator dates obtained from samples of charcoal and oat from the fill of the ditch of
the enclosure and a pit from within the confines of the enclosure. There was no suitable material for
radiocarbon dating from any of the fills of the ringfort (P. Johnston Appendix 3).
Table 1
Lab. Code Sample Ma- Context No. Yrs BP Calibrated Dates
terial
2 sigma
UB-6958 Charcoal A014/005:1:7 cal AD 780-979
UB-6962 Charcoal A014/005:3b:8 cal BC 3966-3717
The dates obtained from the fill of the ditch of the enclosure and a pit within the confines of the en-
closure are very interesting especially when considered in conjunction with dates achieved from the
excavated area of the enclosure located within the CPO. Three radiocarbon dates have been obtained
from the portion of the enclosure, known as Enclosure 4, located within the CPO by E. Cotter for
ACS Ltd. The fills of the ditch have produced an Iron Age date (cal AD 120-340 Beta 201052) and an
early medieval date (cal AD 610-870 Beta 203724). A middle Bronze Age date (cal BC 1120-780 Beta
201044) was achieved from the fill of a pit located within the confines of the enclosure.
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6 Potential impact of the proposed development on the known archaeology
Route A, which runs parallel and adjacent to the northern field boundary would have severely adverse
effects on the archaeology present. Test trenching and topographic survey were undertaken in this
area. Despite being truncated by later activity the outer bank and ditch of the ringfort survive to a
considerable degree. The part of the route from the edge of the enclosure to the western field boundary
contains no features of archaeological significance.
A corridor approx 8.5m in width between the outer enclosing elements of the ringfort and the ditch of
the enclosure has been identified E of the ringfort.
7 Recommendations
Mitigation of negative impacts on the extant elements of the northern banks and ditches of the ringfort
is achievable only by avoidance.
Any access route into the northeast corner of the field must avoid both the upstanding ringfort and the
below ground sub rectangular enclosure. To maintain a distance of 1 m from both of these features
would leave a narrow corridor approx 8 m in width between them for the proposed route.
An alternative route for the farm trackway should be considered. As a suggestion, and based on the
available geophysics results, Option C (or a variant thereof) should be considered, as it may (with care-
ful design) be possible to avoid directly impacting all of the principal archaeological features identified
to date.
It would be necessary to apply for a licence to archaeologically test the line of the proposed route as it
lies outside the CPO line for the scheme.
In order to minimise any negative impacts on the visual amenity of the ringfort it may be necessary
not to erect either a fence or plant trees along the line of the proposed trackway. In order to assess this
the alternative options proposed should be subjected to a visual impact assessment.
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8 Bibliography
Barfield, L.H. and Hodder, M.A. (1987) Burnt mounds as saunas, and the prehistory of bathing in
Antiquity 61, 370-79.
Barfield, L.H. Hot stones: Hot food or hot baths? In Hodder and Barfield (1910, 59-67).
Brindley, A.L. and Lanting, J.N. (1990) The dating of fulachta fiadh in Buckley, V. (ed.) Burnt Offerings,
55-58.
Brunicardi, N. 1978. Fermoy to 1841 A Local History. Fox’s Printing Works, Fermoy.
Buckley, V. (ed.) (1990) Burnt Offerings. Dublin:Wordwell.
Edwards, N (1990) The Archaeology of Early Medieval Ireland. London. B.T. Batsford
Cotter, E. (2005) Bronze Age Ballybrowney County Cork in Recent Archaeological Discoveries on
National Road Schemes 2004 NRA.
Culleton, E. (1999) Celtic and Early Christian Wexford.
Jeffery, P. Burnt mounds, fulling and early textiles in Hodder and Barfield (1991, 97-107).
Lane, S. (2001) An Archaeological Assessment of N8 South Watergrasshill – Fermoy. Unpublished Sheila
Lane & Associates Archaeological Report.
Lane, S. (2001) N8 Watergrasshill – Fermoy Bypass, Archaeological Assessment: Fieldwalking.
Unpublished Sheila Lane & Associates Archaeological Report.
Luas, A.T. (1965) Washing and bathing in ancient Ireland in JRSAI 95, 65-114.
Mitchell, F. (1990) Early Bronze Age fulachts on Valentia Island in Buckley, V. (ed.) Burnt Offerings,
24-26.
Murphy, D. (2002) Final Report Volume 1: Archaeological Testing, N8 Rathcormac to Fermoy Bypass
Scheme. Unpublished Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd. Report.
O’ Kelly, M. (1989) Early Ireland. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Power et al, () Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Vol I West Cork. The Stationery Office,
Dublin
Power et al. 1994. Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Vol II East & South Cork. The Stationery
Office, Dublin.
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Power et al. (). Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Vol III Mid Cork. The Stationery Office,
Dublin.
Power et al. 2000. Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Vol IV North Cork. The Stationery
Office, Dublin.
Sleeman, A.G. & McConnell B. 1995. Geology of East Cork – Waterford. Geological Survey of
Ireland.
Stout, M. (1997) The Irish Ringfort.
Walsh, C. (1990) A medieval cooking trough from Peter Street, Waterford in Buckley, V. (ed.) Burnt
Offerings 47-48.
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9 Appendices
9.1 Appendix 1
4364 BALLYBROWNEY LOWER CO044-029
OS 44:11:2 (579, 270) Hachured (1935)
OD 200- 300 17908, 09067
Ringfort In tillage, on gentle SE facing slope, overlooking Bride river. Circular area (38m N-S; 38.5m
E-W) defined by three earthen banks with intervening fosses. Inner bank (internal height 0.8m; exter-
nal height 1.3m) and middle bank (H 1.6m) pierced by gaps to N (Width 6m inner bank; 4m middle
bank), with causeways; gap in inner bank (Width 5m) to W. Outer bank survives S→NW; replaced
by field fence to E. To NNE, two radial banks run across gap between middle and inner bank, form-
ing with the ringfort banks a rectangular structure (7.5m × 6.5m) pierced by gap (Width 2.5m) cut
through middle bank; possibly remains of Roman Catholic chapel marked as ‘site of ’ on 1842 OS
map.
9.2 Appendix 2
OS 44:7:6 (655,355) Not shown OD 100-200. 18001, 09170
AP: subcircular enclosure crop mark (CASAP)
Shows SW part of univallate subcircular enclosure; sides appear almost straight. Entrance, with slight
inturns or expanded bank terminals, to WSW
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9.3 Appendix 3
Charred plant remains from Ballybrowney, Co. Cork (A014/005)
By Penny Johnston
9.3.1 Introduction
This report details the analysis of charred seeds and plant remains from samples taken during test exca-
vation at Ballybrowney, Co. Cork. The samples that produced charred plant remains were taken from a
ditch fill and from a pit within the confines of Enclosure 4; in general the assemblage was limited and
the material discussed here is only suitable for AMS radiocarbon dates.
9.3.2 Methodology
The samples were collected on site as bulk soil and were processed using a simple flotation method.
Each sample was saturated in water to allow carbonised plant material to float; this “flot” (the floating
material) was then poured into a stack of sieves and trapped in the sieve meshes (the smallest meas-
ured 250µm). When all the carbonised material was collected the flot was air-dried prior to storage
in airtight plastic bags. The samples were scanned under low-powered magnification and the results
are presented in Table 1 at the end of this report. Sorting and identification of the flots was carried
out using a low-powered binocular microscope (magnification x10 to x40) and identified seeds were
separated and stored in sealed glass phials. The table of identified seeds is presented at the end of this
report (Table 2). The analysed charcoal pieces were each snapped by hand to reveal the anatomical fea-
tures necessary for identification, which was carried out using a binocular microscope (magnification
range up to x50). The low-level of magnification available meant that while it was possible to separate
different wood types from each other (into ring and diffuse porous categories) it was not possible to
identify non-oak species.
9.3.3 Results
Seven samples were sieved and scanned, of these only two contained the remains of charred plants;
charcoal was found C.1 (S.7) and C.3 (S.8). Seeds were recovered from only one of these, C.1 (S.7).
The remaining samples contained no charred material and therefore they could not be selected for
radiocarbon dating.
The cereals from C.1 were identified as grains of oat with one weed seed (probably from the com-
mon weed Sheep’s sorrel) also recovered. The sample was taken from a ditch fill that is thought to be
the continuation of an enclosure previously partially excavated by Eamonn Cotter for ACS Ltd., and
which produced radiocarbon dates from both the Iron Age and the medieval period. Oats are found
in Irish prehistoric deposits, but they are relatively rare and in these contexts the grains are usually
interpreted as crop weeds and by-products of crop processing. Cultivated oats are usually considered an
early medieval innovation, although in some areas their cultivation may have begun in very late prehis-
tory and, as the cultivar cannot be distinguished from wild varieties without attached chaff (which is
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rarely found) it is difficult to pin down exactly when they were introduced as a crop in Ireland. Because
there were seven grains of oats in this sample, and no other cereal grains, it is possible that this sample
represents a portion of a burnt crop and they may therefore be waste from medieval activity in the
vicinity of the site. Oats were also found in sections of the ditch that were excavated previously (E.
Cotter pers. comm.) and they are often the predominant taxa recovered from early medieval settlement
sites such as ringforts (for example see Monk et al. 1998).
Charcoal was found in both C.1 and C.3. The charcoal from C.1 in Enclosure 4 (the continuation of
the Iron Age/medieval ditch) was very small and was not suitable for identification/radiocarbon dating.
In C.3, the charcoal was taken from a pit within the confines of Enclosure 4. It was identified as both
diffuse porous and ring porous wood types. The ring porous wood was not clearly identifiable, and
therefore it is unlikely to be oak, since oak is generally identifiable even under low-level magnification.
Despite the examination of several charcoal fragments from this sample, the pieces were small and
there was only enough material for an AMS radiocarbon date.
9.3.4 Non-Technical Summary
This report examined the plant remains taken from the ditch of an enclosure excavated during testing
at Ballybrowney, Co. Cork and from a pit within the confines of the enclosure. The ditch is thought to
be a continuation of a partially excavated enclosure (Enclosure 4) that produced Iron Age and medi-
eval dates. The samples from this excavated section produced oat grains, perhaps indicating medieval
activity. Charcoal from a pit within the confines of the enclosure produced both ring porous and dif-
fuse porous wood types. In general the charred material retrieved from the samples was very limited
and AMS dating will be necessary as the material is not suitable for conventional radiocarbon dates.
9.3.5 References
Monk, M., Tierney, J. and Hannon, M. 1998 “Archaeobotanical studies and Early Medieval Munster”
in Monk, M. and Sheehan, J. (eds.) Early Medieval Munster: Archaeology, History and Society. Cork,
Cork University Press.
Table 1: Sample register and sieving records from Ballybrowney, Co. Cork (A014/005)
C. No. S. No. Sample Vol. Col. Desc. Col. No. Texture Comments
F7 6 1000 Dark Yellowish Brown 10yr 4/4 Sandy Clay No plant remains recovered
F1 4 1000 Dark Yellowish Brown 10yr 4/4 Sandy Clay No plant remains recovered
3 5 900 Dark Yellowish Brown 10yr 4/4 Sandy Clay
4 9 1500 Dark Yellowish Brown 10yr 4/4 Sandy Clay No plant remains recovered
F1 3 1200 Dark Yellowish Brown 10yr 4/4 Sandy Clay No plant remains recovered
F1 7 3000 Dark Yellowish Brown 10yr 4/4 Sandy Clay
3 8 1000 Dark Yellowish Brown 10yr 4/4 Sandy Clay No plant remains recovered
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Table 2: Identified plant remains from Ballybrowney, Co. Cork (A014/005)
Context 1
Sample 7
Oat grains
(Avena spp.) 7
Probable Sheep’s sorrel
(Rumex cf acetosella) 1
Table 3: Preliminary examination of charcoal from samples taken at Ballybrowney, Co. Cork (A014/005)
Context Sample Sample weight Sub-sample weight Charcoal assessment Comments
Charcoal not suitable for id or Oat grains present may be
1 7 <1g
dating suitable for AMS date
Diffuse porous 2 fragments (<1g)
3 8 3g <1g and Ring porous 8 fragments AMS only
(<1g)
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Figure 10: Digital terrain model of N side of ringfort
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Figure 11: 2 D model of ringfort superimposed on OS data
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11 Plates
Plate 1: Trench A F2 and F3 from E
Plate 2: Trench B3 General mid-excavation
view of trench showing F1 the enclosure in
the foreground
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Plate 3: Trench D General view of trench from SSW showing line of masonry F1
running parallel to field boundary visible in the background.
Plate 4: Trench B3 View of south facing section in F1 enclosure ditch and posthole/ stone
socket F7 and F2.
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Plate 5: Trench B2 View of west facing section through F1 enclosure ditch. F4 the post
medieval ditch which truncates F1 is visible in the left of the frame.
Plate 6: Trench B1 View of east facing section through F1 enclosure ditch
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Plate 7: Trench B3 View of post medieval/ modern ditch from NE
Plate 8: Trench C View of trench showing E-
W line of large stones and field boundary to
north in the background
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Plate 9: Trench D, View of southern half of trench, showing F.1 (line of stones) at frame
left and ditch at frame right.
Plate 10: Trench E, View of west facing section through trench, line of stones F1 is visible
in the foreground.
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