This archaeological excavation report details the findings of an excavation at Monganstown 1, Co. Westmeath. The excavation uncovered evidence of metalworking from the Bronze Age to the medieval period, including three furnaces dated to the 11th-12th century AD. Various artefacts, industrial residues, and plant remains provided insights into the site's occupation over several periods. Analysis of the materials suggests the site focused on iron smelting and smithing from the medieval era onward. The report provides archaeological and historical context for the site and discusses the significance of the findings.
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.
The site consisted of two concentrations of burnt mound material spread over an area of 20 m2 and an off-centre trough that was possibly originally plank-lined.
The excavation at Killeisk, Co. Tipperary uncovered evidence of activity from the Early Bronze Age and medieval periods. Two groups of pits dated to the Early Bronze Age contained charcoal-rich fills. A large elliptical enclosure and associated linear field boundaries and droveways were dated to the high and late medieval periods. A late medieval kiln and enclosure were also excavated, located southwest of the main enclosure. Fragments of decorated quern stones were recovered from the enclosure and field boundaries.
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.
The document reports on an archaeological excavation at Kiltotan Collinstown 13, Co. Westmeath. The excavation uncovered two main areas of archaeological remains. Area A contained a large pit filled with burnt clay and charcoal dating to the Bronze Age, as well as some post-medieval ditches. Area B contained one irregular disturbed pit also containing burnt material that may be related to remains found further south beyond the road works area. The excavation helps add to the understanding of archaeological remains in the surrounding landscape, which contains evidence of activity dating from the Mesolithic through to the post-medieval period.
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 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.
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.
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.
The site consisted of two concentrations of burnt mound material spread over an area of 20 m2 and an off-centre trough that was possibly originally plank-lined.
The excavation at Killeisk, Co. Tipperary uncovered evidence of activity from the Early Bronze Age and medieval periods. Two groups of pits dated to the Early Bronze Age contained charcoal-rich fills. A large elliptical enclosure and associated linear field boundaries and droveways were dated to the high and late medieval periods. A late medieval kiln and enclosure were also excavated, located southwest of the main enclosure. Fragments of decorated quern stones were recovered from the enclosure and field boundaries.
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.
The document reports on an archaeological excavation at Kiltotan Collinstown 13, Co. Westmeath. The excavation uncovered two main areas of archaeological remains. Area A contained a large pit filled with burnt clay and charcoal dating to the Bronze Age, as well as some post-medieval ditches. Area B contained one irregular disturbed pit also containing burnt material that may be related to remains found further south beyond the road works area. The excavation helps add to the understanding of archaeological remains in the surrounding landscape, which contains evidence of activity dating from the Mesolithic through to the post-medieval period.
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 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.
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.
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 comprised a total of eight features, located in two areas approximately 15 m. apart but clearly relating to the same activity. One feature represented recent agricultural disturbance. Of the seven remaining features, five contained traces of burnt bone with charcoal, suggesting the presence of cremation deposits. A large spread of burnt material was also observed, lying in a shallow cut.
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.
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.
Archaeological Test Excavation Report E2003 Ballybrowney, N8 RFJohn Tierney
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.
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.
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.
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.
This site probably represents evidence of domestic occupation. Based on comparative evidence and the absence of any artefacts it has been assigned a prehistoric date. It may form either a corner from a fence line or may form part of a more complex structure such as a dwelling house. Rectangular houses are
known from the Neolithic through to the Bronze Age, and from the early historic period onwards.
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 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 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 situated at Harristown Big consisted of five fire pits, one heat affected area, nine pits, three stakeholes and three areas where archaeological material accumulated in natural hollows. There was a proliferation of burnt waste and evidence for burning in situ. Two of the pits and a stakehole produced fragments of pottery identified crucibles and a small bowl or stand. Radiocarbon dating indicated that activity at the site was Middle or Late Bronze Age. Specialist analysis of the ceramics has facilitated the interpretation of the site as an area where metalworking was carried out.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Archaeological excavations in Harristown Big townland revealed a number of anomalous archaeological features within an excavated area of c. 100 m2. A total of 33 excavated contexts were recorded including stake-holes, pits and a post-hole.
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.
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.
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.
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Similar to Ex., A001 01, N6 K2 K, Monganstown1, Co. Westmeath Eap Journal
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 comprised a total of eight features, located in two areas approximately 15 m. apart but clearly relating to the same activity. One feature represented recent agricultural disturbance. Of the seven remaining features, five contained traces of burnt bone with charcoal, suggesting the presence of cremation deposits. A large spread of burnt material was also observed, lying in a shallow cut.
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.
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.
Archaeological Test Excavation Report E2003 Ballybrowney, N8 RFJohn Tierney
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.
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.
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.
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.
This site probably represents evidence of domestic occupation. Based on comparative evidence and the absence of any artefacts it has been assigned a prehistoric date. It may form either a corner from a fence line or may form part of a more complex structure such as a dwelling house. Rectangular houses are
known from the Neolithic through to the Bronze Age, and from the early historic period onwards.
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 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 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 situated at Harristown Big consisted of five fire pits, one heat affected area, nine pits, three stakeholes and three areas where archaeological material accumulated in natural hollows. There was a proliferation of burnt waste and evidence for burning in situ. Two of the pits and a stakehole produced fragments of pottery identified crucibles and a small bowl or stand. Radiocarbon dating indicated that activity at the site was Middle or Late Bronze Age. Specialist analysis of the ceramics has facilitated the interpretation of the site as an area where metalworking was carried out.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Archaeological excavations in Harristown Big townland revealed a number of anomalous archaeological features within an excavated area of c. 100 m2. A total of 33 excavated contexts were recorded including stake-holes, pits and a post-hole.
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.
Similar to Ex., A001 01, N6 K2 K, Monganstown1, Co. Westmeath Eap Journal (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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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
Computer in pharmaceutical research and development-Mpharm(Pharmaceutics)MuskanShingari
Statistics- Statistics is the science of collecting, organizing, presenting, analyzing and interpreting numerical data to assist in making more effective decisions.
A statistics is a measure which is used to estimate the population parameter
Parameters-It is used to describe the properties of an entire population.
Examples-Measures of central tendency Dispersion, Variance, Standard Deviation (SD), Absolute Error, Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Eigen Value
- Video recording of this lecture in English language: https://youtu.be/Pt1nA32sdHQ
- Video recording of this lecture in Arabic language: https://youtu.be/uFdc9F0rlP0
- Link to download the book free: https://nephrotube.blogspot.com/p/nephrotube-nephrology-books.html
- Link to NephroTube website: www.NephroTube.com
- Link to NephroTube social media accounts: https://nephrotube.blogspot.com/p/join-nephrotube-on-social-media.html
Travel Clinic Cardiff: Health Advice for International TravelersNX Healthcare
Travel Clinic Cardiff offers comprehensive travel health services, including vaccinations, travel advice, and preventive care for international travelers. Our expert team ensures you are well-prepared and protected for your journey, providing personalized consultations tailored to your destination. Conveniently located in Cardiff, we help you travel with confidence and peace of mind. Visit us: www.nxhealthcare.co.uk
Pictorial and detailed description of patellar instability with sign and symptoms and how to diagnose , what investigations you should go with and how to approach with treatment options . I have presented this slide in my 2nd year junior residency in orthopedics at LLRM medical college Meerut and got good reviews for it
After getting it read you will definitely understand the topic.
How to Control Your Asthma Tips by gokuldas hospital.Gokuldas Hospital
Respiratory issues like asthma are the most sensitive issue that is affecting millions worldwide. It hampers the daily activities leaving the body tired and breathless.
The key to a good grip on asthma is proper knowledge and management strategies. Understanding the patient-specific symptoms and carving out an effective treatment likewise is the best way to keep asthma under control.
Histololgy of Female Reproductive System.pptxAyeshaZaid1
Dive into an in-depth exploration of the histological structure of female reproductive system with this comprehensive lecture. Presented by Dr. Ayesha Irfan, Assistant Professor of Anatomy, this presentation covers the Gross anatomy and functional histology of the female reproductive organs. Ideal for students, educators, and anyone interested in medical science, this lecture provides clear explanations, detailed diagrams, and valuable insights into female reproductive system. Enhance your knowledge and understanding of this essential aspect of human biology.
Giloy in Ayurveda - Classical Categorization and SynonymsPlanet Ayurveda
Giloy, also known as Guduchi or Amrita in classical Ayurvedic texts, is a revered herb renowned for its myriad health benefits. It is categorized as a Rasayana, meaning it has rejuvenating properties that enhance vitality and longevity. Giloy is celebrated for its ability to boost the immune system, detoxify the body, and promote overall wellness. Its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and antioxidant properties make it a staple in managing conditions like fever, diabetes, and stress. The versatility and efficacy of Giloy in supporting health naturally highlight its importance in Ayurveda. At Planet Ayurveda, we provide a comprehensive range of health services and 100% herbal supplements that harness the power of natural ingredients like Giloy. Our products are globally available and affordable, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda. If you or your loved ones are dealing with health issues, contact Planet Ayurveda at 01725214040 to book an online video consultation with our professional doctors. Let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness naturally.
The skin is the largest organ and its health plays a vital role among the other sense organs. The skin concerns like acne breakout, psoriasis, or anything similar along the lines, finding a qualified and experienced dermatologist becomes paramount.
These lecture slides, by Dr Sidra Arshad, offer a simplified look into the mechanisms involved in the regulation of respiration:
Learning objectives:
1. Describe the organisation of respiratory center
2. Describe the nervous control of inspiration and respiratory rhythm
3. Describe the functions of the dorsal and respiratory groups of neurons
4. Describe the influences of the Pneumotaxic and Apneustic centers
5. Explain the role of Hering-Breur inflation reflex in regulation of inspiration
6. Explain the role of central chemoreceptors in regulation of respiration
7. Explain the role of peripheral chemoreceptors in regulation of respiration
8. Explain the regulation of respiration during exercise
9. Integrate the respiratory regulatory mechanisms
10. Describe the Cheyne-Stokes breathing
Study Resources:
1. Chapter 42, Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th edition
2. Chapter 36, Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology, 26th edition
3. Chapter 13, Human Physiology by Lauralee Sherwood, 9th edition
Osvaldo Bernardo Muchanga-GASTROINTESTINAL INFECTIONS AND GASTRITIS-2024.pdfOsvaldo Bernardo Muchanga
GASTROINTESTINAL INFECTIONS AND GASTRITIS
Osvaldo Bernardo Muchanga
Gastrointestinal Infections
GASTROINTESTINAL INFECTIONS result from the ingestion of pathogens that cause infections at the level of this tract, generally being transmitted by food, water and hands contaminated by microorganisms such as E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrio cholerae, Campylobacter, Staphylococcus, Rotavirus among others that are generally contained in feces, thus configuring a FECAL-ORAL type of transmission.
Among the factors that lead to the occurrence of gastrointestinal infections are the hygienic and sanitary deficiencies that characterize our markets and other places where raw or cooked food is sold, poor environmental sanitation in communities, deficiencies in water treatment (or in the process of its plumbing), risky hygienic-sanitary habits (not washing hands after major and/or minor needs), among others.
These are generally consequences (signs and symptoms) resulting from gastrointestinal infections: diarrhea, vomiting, fever and malaise, among others.
The treatment consists of replacing lost liquids and electrolytes (drinking drinking water and other recommended liquids, including consumption of juicy fruits such as papayas, apples, pears, among others that contain water in their composition).
To prevent this, it is necessary to promote health education, improve the hygienic-sanitary conditions of markets and communities in general as a way of promoting, preserving and prolonging PUBLIC HEALTH.
Gastritis and Gastric Health
Gastric Health is one of the most relevant concerns in human health, with gastrointestinal infections being among the main illnesses that affect humans.
Among gastric problems, we have GASTRITIS AND GASTRIC ULCERS as the main public health problems. Gastritis and gastric ulcers normally result from inflammation and corrosion of the walls of the stomach (gastric mucosa) and are generally associated (caused) by the bacterium Helicobacter pylor, which, according to the literature, this bacterium settles on these walls (of the stomach) and starts to release urease that ends up altering the normal pH of the stomach (acid), which leads to inflammation and corrosion of the mucous membranes and consequent gastritis or ulcers, respectively.
In addition to bacterial infections, gastritis and gastric ulcers are associated with several factors, with emphasis on prolonged fasting, chemical substances including drugs, alcohol, foods with strong seasonings including chilli, which ends up causing inflammation of the stomach walls and/or corrosion. of the same, resulting in the appearance of wounds and consequent gastritis or ulcers, respectively.
Among patients with gastritis and/or ulcers, one of the dilemmas is associated with the foods to consume in order to minimize the sensation of pain and discomfort.
Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but the heat and humidity can also wreak havoc on your skin. From itchy rashes to unwanted pigmentation, several skin conditions become more prevalent during these warmer months.
Travel vaccination in Manchester offers comprehensive immunization services for individuals planning international trips. Expert healthcare providers administer vaccines tailored to your destination, ensuring you stay protected against various diseases. Conveniently located clinics and flexible appointment options make it easy to get the necessary shots before your journey. Stay healthy and travel with confidence by getting vaccinated in Manchester. Visit us: www.nxhealthcare.co.uk
2. Final Archaeological Excavation Report,
Monganstown 1
N6 Kinnegad to Kilbeggan
Co. Westmeath
Metalworking site
August 2009
Client: Westmeath County Council
Culleen Beg
Mullingar
Co. Westmeath
E Number: E2771
Ministerial Order No.: A001/01
Licensee: John Lehane
Contact details:
The Forge,
Innishannon, Co. Cork.
Written by: John Lehane and Penny Johnston Tel.: 021 470 16 16
Fax: 021 470 16 28
E-mail: info@eachtra.ie
Web Site: www.eachtra.ie
3. E2771 | A001/01 Monganstown 1, Co. Westmeath ISSUE 3: Eachtra Journal - ISSN 2009-2237
Table of Contents
Acknowledgements ..................................................................................................... iv
1 Non-Technical Summary ....................................................................................1
2 Scope of the Project ............................................................................................1
3 Receiving Environment ......................................................................................2
3.1 Geology........................................................................................................2
3.2 Soils and their uses .......................................................................................2
3.3 Topography ..................................................................................................2
4 Archaeological and Historical Background .........................................................3
4.1 Bronze Age c. 2500-500 BC .........................................................................3
4.2 Iron Age c. 500 BC-500 AD ........................................................................3
4.3 Early Medieval c. 500-1100 AD ...................................................................3
4.4 Later Medieval c. 1100-1650 AD ..................................................................4
4.5 Post-medieval c. 1650-20th century ...............................................................5
4.6 Placenames and Townlands ..........................................................................5
5 Site location and topography...............................................................................6
6 Results of the Excavation ....................................................................................6
6.1 Area 1 ..........................................................................................................6
7 Artefactual Remains .......................................................................................... 10
8 Environmental Remains .................................................................................... 11
9 Industrial Residues ............................................................................................ 11
10 Discussion ......................................................................................................... 12
11 Conclusion ......................................................................................................... 13
12 Bibliography ......................................................................................................14
13 Figures ............................................................................................................... 15
14 Plates ................................................................................................................. 21
15 Appendices ........................................................................................................ 27
15.1 Appendix 1: Context Register ......................................................................27
15.2 Appendix 2: Stratigraphic Matrix ................................................................33
15.3 Appendix 3: Radiocarbon dates from Monganstown 1 ................................34
15.4 Appendix 4: Assessment of Industrial Residues from Excavations at Monganstown
1 ........................................................................................................................ 35
15.5 Appendix 5: Charred plant remains and charcoal from Monganstown 1 .....54
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Table of contents cont.
15.6 Appendix 6: Analysis of charcoal assemblages from Monganstown 1...........59
15.7 Appendix 7: Chemical analysis of industrial residues ...................................67
15.8 Appendix 8: Lithics Finds Report for A001/01 – Monganstown 1, Co. West-
meath ....................................................................................................................73
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Acknowledgements
Senior Archaeologist: John Tierney
Licensee: John Lehane
Field staff: Ray Riordan, Caroline Healy, Helen Butler, Julian Stroud,
Deidre Gleeson, Christina Murphy
Additional Post-Excavation Work: Antonia Doolan, Sara Camplese,
Illustrations: Enda O’Mahony, Deidre Gleeson
Text: John Lehane, Áine Richardson, Antonia Doolan,
Penny Johnston
Specialists: Neil Fairburn, Marcos Martinón-Torres, Abigail Brewer,
Penny Johnston, Mary Dillon, Farina Sternke,
Queen’s University Belfast 14Chrono Centre
Works were carried out on behalf of Westmeath County Council and were funded by the National
Roads Authority under the National Development Plan 2000 - 2006.
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List of Figures
Figure 1: General situation of site along the route of the new road N6 Kinnegad to Kilbeggan Discovery
Series Map ............................................................................................................................................15
Figure 2: Monganstown 1 in relation to trenches of archaeological centreline testing that was carried out
along the route of the new road .............................................................................................................16
Figure 3: RMP sites near the route of the new road N6 Kinnegad to Kilbeggan ...................................17
Figure 4: The excavated site showing three areas of excavation (Areas 1, 2 and 3) at Monganstown 1, Co.
Westmeath (A001/01) ...........................................................................................................................18
Figure 5: Area of excavation in Area 1 at Monganstown 1 ....................................................................19
Figure 6: Sections through furnaces C.57, C.60 and C.63 ................................................................... 20
List of Plates
Plate 1: General site photograph ............................................................................................................21
Plate 2: General site photograph ............................................................................................................21
Plate 3: C.24 post-excavation ................................................................................................................22
Plate 4: C.63 mid-excavation ................................................................................................................22
Plate 5: C.40 post-excavation ................................................................................................................23
Plate 6: C.15 post-excavation.................................................................................................................23
Plate 7: C.2 post-excavation ................................................................................................................. 24
Plate 8: C.66 mid-excavation ............................................................................................................... 24
Plate 9: C.50 mid-excavation.................................................................................................................25
Plate 10: Flint A001/01:13:1 ..................................................................................................................25
Plate 11: An example of clay wall remains within furnace C.63 ............................................................26
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1 Non-Technical Summary
This report details the results of archaeological excavations carried out at Monganstown townland,
along the line of the N6 realignment between Kinnegad and Kilbeggan (Figure 1). Situated approxi-
mately 2 km west of Kinnegad, the site is one of fourteen new archaeological sites identified during test
excavations carried out in 2004. Following the identification of archaeological remains in situ during
the testing phase, it was recommended that preservation by record would be required.
The main concentration of archaeological features was confined to an area of approximately 15 m 2
and was excavated under ministerial order A001/001. Evidence was recovered showing the existence of
early medieval charcoal production pits, and Iron Age ironworking features, as well as other possible
smelting and smithing furnaces close by. Several other pits were excavated, and had been used for the
disposal of slag, although they may have originally had a different function.
2 Scope of the Project
This archaeological services project was carried out on behalf of Westmeath County Council, County
Buildings, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. The project was funded by the National Roads Authority under
the National Development Plan 2000-2006. The purpose of the project was to conduct archaeological
site investigations within the lands made available for the scheme and to assess the nature and extent of
any new or potential archaeological sites uncovered. There were two contracts; Contract 1 (Kinnegad
to Tyrellspass) undertaken by Eachtra Archaeological Projects and Contract 2 (Tyrellspass to Kilbeg-
gan) carried out by Valerie J. Keeley Ltd. and Cultural Resource Development Services Ltd.
This report covers results from Contract 1, Kinnegad to Tyrellspass. Phase 1 of the project (archaeo-
logical centreline testing of the route) was carried out in June and July 2004 under licence (04E0908)
issued by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG). The
principal aim of this phase of the project was to investigate known and possible sites of archaeological
interest along the route of the proposed road scheme and to investigate the remainder of the route. This
was done by a programme of centreline and offset testing (Figure 2). In addition Phase 2 included the
resolution of identified sites which were excavated in the townlands of Monganstown, Farthingstown,
Kiltotan Collinstown and Rattin. This phase of the project was carried out between January and
March 2005 and excavations were carried out by two licensed directors under the direction of a senior
archaeologist. In total fourteen sites were excavated during this phase of works and were carried out
under Ministerial Order. The sites were situated near the western end of the scheme, in County West-
meath, and were found in the townlands of Farthingstown and Kiltotan Collinstown (in the Barony
of Fartullagh) and Monganstown and Rattin (in the Barony of Farbill).
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3 Receiving Environment
3.1 Geology
The bedrock geology is mostly comprised of Lower Carboniferous rocks, mainly limestone, which
overlies Devonian Old Red Sandstone (Holland 1981; Riada Consult 2003, 58). Some sills of Carbon-
iferous volcanic rocks also pass through the bedrock sequences. The dominant topographical feature of
Croghan Hill, 7 km southeast of Tyrrellspass, is comprised of shallow intrusive basaltic and dolamitic
rocks formed by volcanic activity (Riada Consult 2003, 59).
Superficial drift deposits overly the bedrock, varying from impermeable clay to permeable gravel (Ria-
da Consult 2003). Glacial features such as eskers and kames dominate an otherwise flat landscape; the
eskers are punctuated by sand and gravel quarries that provide good quality building materials (Casey
2002).
3.2 Soils and their uses
The soil type encountered in the area (Grey-Brown Podzolic) covers 3.43 % of Ireland, on the southern
limit of the north to west Drumlin belt across the northern half of the country (Gardiner and Radford
1980, 91). The lighter Grey Brown Podzolics are ‘good all-purpose soils’ and the heavier Grey Brown
Podzolics are better for pasture production (Ibid., 27). Although the soil is technically a fertile type, it
has a high clay content which results in poor drainage and peat accumulation in the area is widespread.
This is particularly the case along the western portion of the road route, (where the sites from this
project were found), which has been covered by the growth of fens and raised bog. These peat lands
have generally been worked and, while residual peats are often present, they do not tend to exceed 1 m
thickness (Riada Consult 2003, 61).
3.3 Topography
The landscape followed by the route of the new road from Kinnegad to Athlone is generally lowlying,
ranging from the low undulating drift cover east of Athlone to the flat plains of the central boglands
and moraine near Kinnegad. Only a 4 km stretch of the corridor east of Tyrellspass rises above 100
m in height, most of the land undulating gently along the northern extremities of the Bog of Allen.
Outside the area of bogland the landscape is typified by regular enclosed fields, bordered by densely
overgrown banks with mature hedgerows of ash, elder and hawthorn. This uniform landscape is bro-
ken up by streams, eskers and rivers; the River Brosna and its tributaries drain the western part of the
study area, while the land east of Rochfortbridge is drained by the Yellow River and other smaller
tributaries of the River Boyne (Casey 2002).
The moist climate combined with the low-lying condition of much of the area ensures seasonal flood-
ing, limiting the land-use capability to livestock grazing punctuated by infrequent tillage. In areas
of marginal land close to the edges of the raised bogs the pasture is criss-crossed by drainage ditches
without the usual accompanying enclosing bank (Casey 2002).
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4 Archaeological and Historical Background
(based on an Archaeological and Historical Background by Orlaith Egan)
The sites within this study area are located in a rich multi-period archaeological landscape (Figure 3)
and several monuments have already been assessed in the original EIS report (Riada Consult 2003).
Recent excavations along the routes of new roads have added significantly to the list of known sites
and the newly discovered sites from this part of the N6 road will add further knowledge to the overall
understanding of the area.
The area is associated with ancient routeways of unknown date; a large togher discovered by R.A. S
Macalister in the nearby townland of Baltigeer in the 1930s may possibly have linked up with the
Slighe Dala or Slí Asail, two ancient routeways which led to Tara and Connacht. One of the five great
ancient roads of Ireland, the Slí Mór, is also thought to have passed through the area. The earliest
indication of archaeological activity within the area was the recovery of a stray Mesolithic Bann flake
(IAWU 2002) and a stone axe (SA 1989:17), potentially of Neolithic date (c. 4000-2500 BC), found in
the townland of Rattin (IAWU 2001). However, all the archaeological sites excavated in the area have
been identified as of Bronze Age date or later.
4.1 Bronze Age c. 2500-500 BC
The earliest known evidence of settlement is represented by an Early Bronze Age (c. 2500-1500 BC)
togher discovered by the Irish Archaeological Wetland Unit in the townland of Rattin (IAWU 2001).
Finds from the area include a socketed bronze axe head from the Late Bronze Age (1936:1873 NMI)
which was recovered near Kinnegad townland (exact location unknown). Bronze Age burnt mounds
are also reasonably common; one definite example (CHS 20) and several potential sites were discovered
during fieldwalking of the proposed route (Riada Consult 2003, 247). A burnt mound was excavated
at Kiltotan Collinstown 12 and at Kiltotan Collinstown 13 an anomalous pit produced a Middle-Late
Bronze Age radiocarbon date.
4.2 Iron Age c. 500 BC-500 AD
There is a general dearth of evidence from this period in the Irish archaeological record. However, two
Iron Age radiocarbon dates from iron smelting pits were produced at this site at Monganstown 1.
4.3 Early Medieval c. 500-1100 AD
The record of Early Historic activity in the study area and the surrounding countryside is rich. An
ancient monastic site founded at Clonfad (WM27: 067, WM27: 066) to north of the townland of
Rattin, consisted of a possible church site, a rectangular enclosure, a graveyard, crosses, and Bishop’s
grave. St. Etchen was bishop of Clonfad or Cluain-fota-Baethain in the sixth century and the annals
of Ulster record his death between 578-84 AD. He is reputed to have ordained St. Columcille and
St. Colmáin mac Lúacháin of Lynn and many others. The monastery survived into the eight century
AD as Blahmac, an abbott of Clonfad was killed in 799 AD (Gwynn & Hadcock 1970). Sites with
evidence for craft/industry from this period include charcoal/metalworking pits at Monganstown 1,
which produced two Early Historic radiocarbon dates, and material from a small metalworking pit at
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Kiltotan Collinstown 14, which also returned an Early Historic date.
The most common settlement monuments of this period are ringforts (also known as rath or lios).
These are interpreted as enclosed farmsteads and they generally consist of a circular ditch outside an
earthen bank (constructed with the upcast from the excavation of the ditch). Larger examples may
have more than one ditch and a bank forming the enclosure. At Kiltotan Collinstown 14 there are four
ringforts located within 1 km of the site. The nearest, WM033-061, is situated just 350 m to the north.
East of the site are WM033-065 and WM033-066, at distances of 700 m and 400 m respectively. The
fourth ringfort, WM033-062, is about 840 m north-northeast of the site. Also within 1 km of the site
is a fifth recorded monument, WM033-068, listed as an earthwork. At Monganstown 1 a further two
ringforts (WM 027:069 and WM 027:070) are located in the area between the site and the town of
Kinnegad, with one, just 500 m from the site. The evidence suggests that the area was quite intensely
settled during the Early Historic period.
4.4 Later Medieval c. 1100-1650 AD
The villages of Tyrrellspass and Rochfortbridge both date from the medieval period and are located
near the sites examined in this project. Rochfortbridge is located 11 km southwest of Kinnegad within
the Barony of Fartullagh. The village is named after the Rochforts, a French family who settled in
Ireland in 1243. Before the Rochforts established themselves in the area the Tyrrells, a powerful An-
glo-Norman family, held the Barony of Fartullagh. This included the lands around Rochfortbridge
and the parish of Castlelost. In the 13th century (c. 1411) the Tyrrells built a castle that consisted of a
motte and bailey (a stone castle came later) in Tyrrellspass, to the northwest of the town. It guarded
the western entrance to the Barony of Fartullagh and it remained the centre of power for the Tyrrells
until the Cromwellian Invasions (1650). They also built a semi-fortified manorial church on the castle
lands which contained an effigy of armoured Knight John Tyrell dating to 1607. The site of another
castle (WM 027: 071) and a bridge (WM 028: 003), reflecting further settlement in the later medieval
period, are located in the townland of Kinnegad.
A defensive castle was also constructed in Rattin (WM34: 008), built to defend extensive Anglo-Nor-
man territories in the midlands. The lands were owned by Hugh de Lacy but passed into the possession
of Sir John Darcy and his descendents when he became Chamberlain and Steward of the household of
King Edward ΙΙΙ, Chief justice of England and Peer of the realm. In the Insurrection of 1641 Nicholas
Darcy forfeited Rattin and the greater part of his estates (Bardon 1913). The remains of a sixteenth
century towerhouse (called Rattin Castle) are found in the townland today. Test trenches c. 1500 m to
the northwest of the castle failed to produce any archaeological remains (Conway 1999, 298). How-
ever, phase 1 test excavations north of Rattin towerhouse found the remains of a probable timber and
brushwood trackway. There is also a recorded earthwork site (WM 34:007) located to the west of the
castle but its function and date are unknown.
The only excavated site from this project that dated to the Medieval period was a small furnace at Kil-
totan Collinstown 14 which produced a fifteenth century radiocarbon date.
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4.5 Post-medieval c. 1650-20th century
The post-medieval archaeology examined during the project included the remains of field systems and
vernacular architecture. Post-medieval field boundaries and ditches were excavated at Farthingstown
009, Farthingstown 011, Monganstown 2, Kiltotan Collinstown 12, Kiltotan Collinstown 13 and Kil-
totan Collinstown 14. The field systems at Kiltotan Collinstown are probably related to a nineteenth
century farmstead pictured on the 1st Edition OS map and located immediately adjacent to the site at
Kiltotan Collinstown 12. Vernacular architecture was also examined at the site of Rattin 4, where a
nineteenth century farmhouse was tested and recorded prior to road construction. South of Rattin 4
the post-medieval Clonfad mill still stands. This mill has been subjected to a standing building survey
and has been reported separately.
In addition there are two demesnes located within the study area (Farthingstown House and Side-
brook House), both found in the townland of Farthingstown. The term ‘demesne’ originates from
Norman French and indicates the portion of an estate retained by a feudal lord for his own use. The
term is also used to indicate the extent of a wealthy landowners post-medieval landholding, imme-
diately adjacent to their home. Most Irish examples typically consist of a big house with associated
buildings, ornamental and recreational grounds, and perhaps the remains of an elaborate boundary
wall (Riada Consult 2003, 249).
4.6 Placenames and Townlands
The sites were excavated in the townlands of Farthingstown, Kiltotan Collinstown, Rattin and Mon-
ganstown. The townland of Farthingstown lies in the parish of Castlelost in the barony of Fartullagh.
It covers a substantial area containing c. 1802 acres. It is known in Irish as Baile na Feóirlinge meaning
‘town of the farthing’ (Walsh 1957). It was known as ‘Ballyneforlin alias Fardingston’ in the inquisi-
tions of the seventeenth century (Inq. Car. Ι no. 129). The townland of Kiltotan and Collinstown is
also located within the parish of Castlelost and the Barony of Fartullagh. It lies south and southeast of
the old mail coach road from Tyrrellspass to Dublin and borders part of the County of Offaly. In 1837
it consisted of c. 320 acres, which was mainly of arable and pastureland but included a narrow stretch
of bog, which bordered the parish of Newtown. Kiltotan is known in Irish as Cill Toiteáin meaning
‘the church of the conflagration’. Collinstown is known as Baile Choileáin translated as ‘the town of
Collins’. (OS Namebooks). The townland of Rattin is located in the west of the parish of Killucan
within the barony of Farbill. It is known in Irish as Rath Aitinne meaning ‘Rath of the furze’. The lands
of Rattin were formerly part of the lands of Clonfad, situated to the west. The name Monganstown is
derived from ‘the town of the Mongans’ and the townland covers an area of 483 acres.
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5 Site location and topography
The site is situated approximately 2 km west of Kinnegad town, near the eastern end of the new route
(Figures 1-3). It is 500 m south of the current N6, at Chainage 57240 (field 123/National Grid Co-or-
dinates 258000/244650), in the townland of Monganstown, in the parish of Killucan and the barony
of Farbill. The excavation was located 150 m north of, and in the flood plain of, the Kinnegad River,
which forms the county boundary between Westmeath and Meath. It is on a slightly raised ridge in a
level boggy field, which has been in use as pasture for cattle and sheep. It appears that the drier ground
of the raised ridge would have attracted occupation in the past. The Boyne Valley Drainage Scheme in
the 1950’s is responsible for the presence of deep field drains up to 3 m in depth close to the site.
6 Results of the Excavation
Three separate areas (Area 1 to 3) were stripped of topsoil during the original test excavations of the
new route (Figure 4). Area 1 was the largest, being 53 m long (east to west) and 20 m wide, though
of an irregular shape. The features identified included two charcoal production pits, six furnaces and
several other pits and postholes (Figure 5, Plates 1 and 2).
Area 2 was located 19 m west of Area 1 and just 4.4 m west of Area 3. It was 20 m long (northeast to
southwest) and 10 m wide. The area was opened in order to uncover a possible linear feature identified
during the testing phase but the only features visible were the remnants of a lazy-bed system.
Area 3 was then opened between Areas 1 and 2, 4.4 m to the east of Area 2. It measured 20 m by 4
m with a long-axis running northeast to southwest. No archaeological evidence was uncovered in this
area.
A full record of the excavated contexts is presented in the context register in Appendix 1 while the
stratigraphic matrix is presented in Appendix 2.
6.1 Area 1
6.1.1 Charcoal pits
Two large charcoal production pits (C.21 and C.24) were identified during excavations. The pits had a
similar morphology, being sub-rectangular in plan with almost vertical sides and flat bases. Both pits
were almost 3 m long, between 1.2 m and 1.3 m wide and 0.2 m deep, with C.21 the larger of the two.
A large amount of charcoal remained in situ in both pits.
The larger of these pits (C.21) measured 2.85 m north-south x 1.3 m in width x 0.26 in depth. It was
situated in a corner of the site, approximately 20 m northwest of the main concentration of features
and 14 m from the other charcoal pit (C.24). It contained an undisturbed charcoal rich fill (C.14)
which was interpreted as the original fill of the pit following charcoal manufacture. Analysis of this
material has shown that oak was the main raw material used for the manufacture of this charcoal and
it has produced an Early Historic radiocarbon date of AD 898-920. There was no indication why this
material was not utilised following its production.
The second pit (C.24) measured 2.8 m northwest-southeast by 1.2 m in width and a maximum of 0.2
m in depth (Plate 3). This pit was identified during the test excavation and the upper fill (C.25) was
material that was re-deposited as a result of archaeological test trenching. This overlay the original
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charcoal fill (C.13) which contained a piece of burnt struck flint (A001/001:13:1). The charcoal was
identified as oak and it yielded an Early Historic radiocarbon date of AD 897-1024. The orientation of
the individual wood pieces could be discerned lying along a northwest-southeast alignment, the same
orientation as the pit itself.
6.1.2 Furnaces
Six furnaces were excavated on the site; C.40, C.47, C.57, C.60, C.63 and C.74. Four of these (fur-
naces C.47, C.57, C.60 and C.63) were situated roughly in the centre of the site (Figure 5).
The most southerly furnace (C.47) measured 0.54 m in length and 0.5 m in width. The lower fill
(C.46) was composed of burnt clays that were interpreted as being part of the superstructure of the
furnace. A total of 8 kg of slag were also retrieved from this deposit and chemical analysis indicated
that this slag was from a bloomery furnace (Appendix 7). The second fill (C.48) was topsoil-like and
probably accumulated in the furnace after the original furnace contents were removed.
The smallest furnace on the site (C.57, Figure 6) measured 0.4 m by 0.3 m in plan. It contained two
fills (C.58 and C.59); the lower fill (C.59) consisted of various slag and oak charcoal elements. The up-
per fill (C.58) was a layer of slumped topsoil that filled the furnace following removal of the original
contents.
Two furnaces (C.60 and C.63) were of similar size and morphology; both were sub-circular with aver-
age dimensions of 0.78 m by 0.61 m by 0.42 m. The furnace C.60 contained two fills (C.61 and C.62).
The basal fill (C.62) was a charcoal-rich deposit found at the base of the cut (Figure 6) and interpreted
as the remnants of the original charcoal (identified as ash) used as fuel in the furnace to attain the high
temperature necessary for smelting. A total of 9 kg of slag were retrieved from this deposit. The upper
fill (C.61) was similar to the upper fills of other furnaces, and contained topsoil-like sediments as well
as 12 kg of slag. The furnace C.63 (Plate 4) differed from all the other furnaces in that it contained
three fills (C.64, C.65 and C.75). The basal fill (C.75) was a layer of nearly pure charcoal that was
recorded at the bottom of the cut (Figure 6) and it contained 14 kg of slag. It was similar to C.62, the
basal fill in furnace C.60. This basal layer was overlain by a deposit of burnt clay (C.65) with possible
structural elements (burnt clay and charcoal) that may imply a domed superstructure that collapsed
into the furnace when it was broken to extract smelted ores. A total of 15 kg of slag remained in the
deposit. The uppermost fill of this furnace (C.64) contained small amounts of slag and some oak char-
coal and was probably disturbed furnace fill that accumulated in the furnace after its use.
The largest furnace was C.74/C.40. This was an elongated, sub-rectangular pit/furnace (C.74) with a
small circular furnace (C.40) at its southern end (Plate 5). This was found on the western edge of the
main grouping of features in the centre of the site. C.40 was c. 0.55 m in diameter and 0.32 m in depth
and it contained two fills (C.39 and C.38). The primary fill (C.39) was a dark slag rich mix, with 15 kg
of slag retrieved along with charcoal from a diffuse-porous wood type. This context returned an Iron
Age radiocarbon date of BC 361-113 (UB 6940, see Appendix 3). The upper fill of the furnace (C.38)
was interpreted as a mix of topsoil and collapsed materials (including 3 kg of slag and ash, hazel and
yew charcoal) that filled the furnace subsequent to the use of the feature. Recovered from this fill were
two large pieces of vitrified clay lining that were originally part of the furnace; they may have formed
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part of a shaft (see Appendix 4) or they may have been from the clay walls of a bloomery furnace. One
of these pieces has a small round hole towards its base for the insertion of bellows. The edges of C.74
extended northwards from this circular bowl, approximately 1.3 m in length by 0.5 m in width. These
dimensions made it roughly 1 m longer than the other furnaces. This part of the furnace was filled
by two deposits (C.72 and C.73), the basal fill (C.73) being very disturbed and composed of burnt
clays (some possible fragments of superstructure), slag pieces (13 kg), charcoal and topsoil-like mate-
rial. The presence of topsoil-like material in these fills may indicate some disturbance by ploughing in
the general area, which resulted in the formation of homogenous brown fills mixed with debris from
the furnace which had been dismantled to remove the processed ores. The upper fill (C.72) was clayey
sand topsoil that probably slumped into the furnace void following a period of disuse. The irregular
morphology of this feature implies that it was severely disturbed after smelting/smithing.
Furnace cut Length Width Depth Fuel/Charcoal type Clay walls Vitrified clay lin-
present ing present
C.47 0.54 0.5 Oak and yew Yes (in C.46) No
C.57 0.4 0.3 Oak No No
C.60 0.8 0.6 0.35 Ash No Yes (in C.61)
C.63 0.76 0.62 0.5 Oak Yes (in C.65) Yes (in C.65 and
C.75)
C.74/C.40 1.3 0.55 0.32 Ash, hazel and yew Yes (in C.73 and Yes (in C.38 and
(diameter of C.38) C.39)
C.40 0.55 m)
6.1.3 Stakeholes
One stakehole (C.6) was situated in the southeast corner of the site. It had only one fill (C.5) indicating
that it was formed by a driven post/large stake, which was subsequently removed. A similar stakehole
(C.15, filled by C.16) was situated in the northwest corner of the site (Plate 6). The charcoal from this
stakehole was identified as oak (Appendix 6) and it probably represents the remains of a burnt post
(Appendix 6). Whether these two features formed part of larger structures is unknown, but there is
no evidence for associated stakes or postholes. However, it is quite likely that some form of shelter was
erected around the metal working site as this would have been necessary to protect against the ele-
ments.
6.1.4 Clay Extraction Pits
Six pits (C.2, C.23, C.45, C.52, C.66 and C.79) were excavated on the site. They ranged in size from
4 m to 0.80 m in length, with depths of between 0.67 m and 0.10 m.
The first pit (C.2) was an irregular cut and measured 3.84 m northwest-southeast x 0.80 m in width x
0.58 m in depth. It was situated in the northeast corner of the site (Plate 7). The primary fill (C.4) con-
tained oak and hazel/alder charcoal, fragments of clay and 5 kg of slag waste. The other fills (C.1 and
C.3) both contained charcoal (including oak, ash and elm) and slag, with most slag being retrieved
from C.1, where 2 kg of slag was found. The oak charcoal identified from C.1 returned an Iron Age
radiocarbon date of BC 338-46 (UB 6940, see Appendix 3). This pit was probably originally used as
a quarry pit, for extracting clay that was used to build the superstructure of the nearby furnaces. It
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was evidently later backfilled with waste material from the iron-working process taking place in the
surrounding area.
A similar pit (C.69) was situated approximately 1 m southwest of C.2. It measured 3.3 m southeast-
northwest x 0.8 m x 0.4 m in depth and it had two fills (C.70 and C.71). The basal fill of the pit (C.71)
contained small to moderate slag and oak charcoal inclusions (see Appendix 6 for charcoal identifica-
tions) and it represents deliberate deposition of waste material from furnace activities. One fragment
of a hazelnut shell was recovered from this context, indicating that waste from domestic activities may
have been used to set the furnaces alight (Appendix 5). The upper fill (C.70) consisted of a mix of
redeposited material that included topsoil. This pit was interpreted as a quarry pit and, like the other
quarry pit C.2 and the disused furnaces, it was backfilled with waste from metalworking that was car-
ried out at the site.
Another linear quarry pit (C.45) was found 2 m south of C.2 and C.69, and it was located beside a
deposit of orangey gravely clay. It measured 3.8 m east-west x 0.8 m x 0.4 m in depth and it had three
fills (C.44, C.56 and C.55). The basal fill (C.44) contained frequent charcoal and slag inclusions as
well as some plant remains. It was overlain by C.56, a deposit of red burnt clay, probably the lining of
a furnace. This deposit also produced plant remains. The plant remains from both contexts were in a
poor state of preservation but may represent domestic material that was used as tinder for the furnace
fires; C.44 produced one charred unidentified seed, one stem or straw fragment, and one indetermi-
nate fruit stone and C.56 produced one hazelnut shell fragment during plant remains analysis (Ap-
pendix 5). Both of these deposits evidently represented redeposited furnace waste. The uppermost fill
(C.55) contained only small amounts of charcoal, probably re-deposited from the surrounding area,
and no industrial residues and may have been a result of natural silting.
Another pit (C.23) was situated at the southeast edge of the main body of features and to the south
of the pit C.45. There was no evidence of burning in situ or any other indicator of use. It had four fills
(C.31, C.30, C.22 and C.32). The primary fill of the cut (C.32) seemed to represent a deliberate back-
filling episode. Other small deposits such as C.22 and C.30 contained small amounts of slag (there
was 1 kg in C.22) and represented rubbish deposited in the pit. The uppermost fill (C.31) may have
been the result of natural silting.
The remaining pits were centrally located and they produced the most complex stratigraphy on the site.
The earliest pit was C.79 which was situated next to one of the charcoal pits (C.24) at the northwest
corner of the main concentration of the archaeology. The pit (C.79) measured 2.9 m northwest-south-
east x 1.78 m x 0.67 m in depth. It had two fills (C.68 and C.29). The lowest was C.68, a deposit of
silty sand with 10 kg of slag, interpreted as a layer of disposed slag. This underlay a spread of dark
sediment with frequent charcoal inclusions (C.29) and it filled the pit and spread outside its confines,
covering an area of approximately 3.2 m by 1.3 m. This spread (C.29) was also cut by another pit
(C.66) which measured 2.5 m north-south x 0.85 m x 0.23 m in depth and was filled by C.67, a silty
sand with occasional slag and charcoal (Plate 8). This pit (C.66) was in turn cut by a crescent-shaped
pit (C.52) which was situated in the centre of the site. It measured 3.5 m east-west x 1.1 m x 0.3 m in
depth and it followed and respected the edge of a natural deposit of orange gravely clay. It was filled by
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layers C.53 and C.54, both of which had inclusions of slag and charcoal pieces.
The charcoal-rich spread (C.29) that partially filled the earliest pit (C.79), was overlain by a thin layer
of re-deposited industrial waste material (C.33) where charred seeds and hazel nut shell fragments were
found (Appendix 5) along with fragments of oak charcoal (Appendix 6). This spread had dimensions
of 1.0 m north-south x 0.4 m x 0.1 m and it was cut by another pit (C.36) which measured 1.5 m east-
west x 1.45 m x 0.16 m and was filled by C.34, which contained frequent slag and moderate charcoal
inclusions. It was cut by another pit (C.37) which measured 0.8 m north-south x 0.5 m x 0.1 m, and
was filled with a layer of slag-rich industrial waste (C.35).
It was postulated during excavation that some of these pits were dug for the purpose of extracting
deposits of ore from the subsoil, as many of the pits were situated in proximity to natural deposits of
orange gravely clay. Small lumps or nodules of possible iron ore and manganese deposits were identi-
fied along the sides of natural deposits during the excavation and it was surmised that higher concen-
trations were mined out at the time the site was in use. However, it is extremely unlikely that these pits
could have produced anything near the amount of ore required for smelting purposes (Neil Fairburn,
pers. comm.). The pits were found adjacent to the furnaces and their positions appear deliberate. It
is therefore possible that some of the pits were excavated in order to extract clay for the manufacture
of the furnace superstructures, for example clay domes, and were later utilised for the disposal of the
industrial waste.
6.1.5 Pits of unknown function
A shallow depression or possible pit (C.10) was located in the southeast corner of the site and may have
been associated with a nearby stakehole (C.6). It was irregular in plan and measured 0.5 m east-west
x 0.45 m x 0.07 m in depth and had one charcoal-flecked fill (C.9). Another shallow pit (C.50) was
located to the west of the main concentration of archaeological features (Plate 9), it measured 0.54 m
east-west x 0.5 m x 0.15 m and it had only one fill (C.51). A third pit (C.78) situated nearby, measur-
ing 2.05 m southwest-northeast x 1.1 m x 0.21 m and containing two fills (C.76 and C.77). The lower
fill (C.76) consisted of a thin layer of charcoal while the upper fill (C.77) represented deliberate back-
filling. The absence of evidence for burning in situ suggested that the charcoal production occurred
elsewhere.
7 Artefactual Remains
Only one find was recovered from this site, a burnt flint (A001/01:13:1, Plate 10) which was examined
by Farina Sternke (Appendix 8). It was a type that was probably made in the Early Mesolithic or the
Neolithic, although the find spot is probably typically Mesolithic (an island of raised ground sur-
rounded by marchland). This is an early find that has evidently been disturbed and incorporated into
deposits associated with later archaeological activity.
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8 Environmental Remains
Twenty-one bulk soil samples and thirteen charcoal samples were analysed for the retrieval of charred
seeds and charcoal. The flots for charred seeds were examined by Penny Johnston and Abigail Brewer
(Appendix 5) and the charcoal from the site was examined by Mary Dillon (Appendix 6). Charred
seeds were only found in six samples, these were mostly fragments from hazel nut shells. Most of the
charcoal from the site was identified as oak, but ash and yew were also significant elements of the as-
semblage.
9 Industrial Residues
Visual inspection of the industrial residues from the site was carried out by Neil Fairburn (Appendix
4) and chemical analysis of three samples was carried out by Marcos Martinón-Torres at the Archaeo-
logical Science Laboratories at the Institute of Archaeology in London (Appendix 7). Several of the
samples resembled tap slag which suggested that the smelting occurred in a shaft furnace. If this was
the case it is one of the earliest examples known from Ireland, where iron smelting technology is gen-
erally considered deeply conservative (see Appendix 4). Chemical analysis suggested that the material,
although visually resembling tap slag, was actually material that accumulated at the bottom or around
the walls of a bloomery furnace (Appendix 7). The composition may be because this slag was a by-
product, rather than a product, of the smelt (Appendix 4). Chemical analysis also indicated that the
ore source was high in manganese and that the smelting process was quite efficient. High manganese
(Mn), strontium (Sr) and barium (Br) are the indicators that could help to identify the potential ore
source in the vicinity.
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10 Discussion
All of the features excavated at this site were associated with iron working and included charcoal pits,
furnaces and various extraction and/or disposal pits filled with charcoal and slag. In total, twenty-three
cut features were excavated at the site and forty-eight deposits (fills and spreads) were investigated. The
stratigraphic matrix from Monganstown 1 was fairly simple, with no difficult sequence of inter-cutting
features, implying a relatively short-lived phase of metalworking activity.
Metalworking residues excavated across the river at Kinnegad 2 (Murphy 2003 and Murphy 2004,
510) indicate that the general area around Monganstown was a favoured location for metalworking.
The location of these sites is dependant on two primary factors; access to fuel and access to ore. Access
to bog ore was presumably relatively easy in the midlands as much of this part of the country is covered
by raised mires. The bog may also have provided a source of fuel as peat has been identified as a fuel
used to fire furnaces in some parts of Scotland in prehistory (Pleiner 2000, 129). However, the primary
source of fuel at this site was identified as oak charcoal (Appendix 5 and 6). The fact that charcoal
production pits were excavated at the site indicates that the metalworking was carried out near the lo-
cation of the fuel source; Pleiner (2000, 118) suggests that it is more economical to locate the site near
the fuel source rather than the ore, especially when fuel is in short supply, as ore is smaller in volume
and lighter in weight than the charcoal required for smelting and it is therefore less problematic to
transport it. The method of making charcoal was probably relatively simple, involving the excavation
of a pit, filling it with timber, covering in vegetation to limit the oxygen supply, then lighting the fire
and allowing it to smoulder, slowly turning the wood to charcoal. This production process was similar
to that identified at Kinnegad 2 (Murphy 2003)
It is clear that substantial iron working was carried out at Monganstown 1. In total 61 kg of industrial
residues were recovered from a number of pits and furnaces during the archaeological excavation. The
industrial residues consisted of material associated with iron working including furnace and amor-
phous slag from most contexts. An iron smithing PCB (Plano Convex Bottom), was found in C.62
(from furnace C.60) and pieces of vitrified furnace lining were found in several of the deposits within
furnaces (C.60, C.63 and C.40) and in slag-rich waste deposits that backfilled three clay extraction
pits (C.2, C.23 and C.45) and in another small pit (C.50), presumably cleared after use of (Appendix
4).
Fragments of vitrified clay-lining from Monganstown were very large and they indicate a feature with
an internal diameter of c. 0.3 m. In some cases this indicates a feature considerably smaller than the
width of the excavated furnaces (generally c. 0.5 – 0.6 m wide) and it may suggest that these furnaces
were the bases of shaft furnaces (see Appendix 4). There was also a considerable quantity of material
that resembled fluid tapped slag (27.5 kg), the type of slag that is produced in shaft furnaces. However,
chemical analysis on a limited number of samples suggested that it was actually slag from a bloomery
furnace (see Appendix 7). In this case the vitrified clay linings found among the slag and the fragments
of clay walls found within the furnaces may actually be the surviving remains of domes or clay walls
temporarily built over small bowl furnaces. Partial remains of the superstructure of several furnaces
survived in the form of collapsed clay walls (in C.47, C.63, C.74 and C.40, see an example in Plate
11).
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In general, simple bowl furnaces are thought to have been utilised at the beginning of the Iron Age
and into the Early Historic and medieval period in Ireland (Scott 1991). The identification of shaft
furnaces has important technological implications as the procedures used in shaft furnaces were more
efficient. There is a possibility that there was a shaft furnace at Monganstown 1, indicating a relatively
sophisticated smelting process and suggesting a very early date for use of this technology; the earliest
known examples are from a small quantity of tap slag retrieved at Farranstack, Co. Kerry (03E0171)
where the furnace was identified as a shaft furnace producing radiocarbon dates of between 1020-1270
AD (Dowd and Fairburn 2005). However, chemical analysis has yet to confirm this issue for certain.
What is clear is that the smelting process was relatively efficient, perhaps due to the qualities of the ore
used, rather than because of the technology (Appendix 7).
The Monganstown 1 radiocarbon results demonstrate a wide period of use at the site, with deposits
from the area associated with metalworking producing Iron Age dates and deposits from charcoal
production pits indicating Early Medieval activity. This suggests a long period of intermittent activity
at the site. Such repeated usage is perhaps down to the ideal location, on a slightly raised island that
probably attracted occupation in the past, as the area has been extensively drained since the 1950s. The
only artefact from the site, a flint that was disturbed from its original depositional context, indicates
that occupation in the general area extends even further back than the radiocarbon dates suggest.
11 Conclusion
Charcoal pits and furnaces associated with iron working were excavated at Monganstown 1, with
material from the site producing both Iron Age and Early Historic dates. The industrial residues were
primarily identified as the remains from iron smelting with a small amount of iron smithing residues.
The results from this site will feed into a growing collection of discoveries that is changing our knowl-
edge about metalworking technology available in Ireland in the past.
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12 Bibliography
Bardan, P. 1913. ‘Fairbill Topography’, Typed manuscript, Westmeath County Council Library
Casey, M. 2002. ‘N6 Kinnegad to Athlone Aerial Survey’, section of the N6 Environmental Impact
Statement, 2004.
Conway, M. 1999. ‘Rattin’, in Bennett, I. (ed.) Excavations 1999: Summary account of archaeological
excavations in Ireland. Bray, Wordwell.
Dowd, M. and Fairburn, N. 2005 ‘Excavations at Farranstack, Co. Kerry: evidence for the use of shaft
furnaces in medieval iron production’ Journal of Irish Archaeology XIV, 115-121.
Gardiner, M.J. and Radford, T. 1980. Soil Associations of Ireland and Their Land Use Potential. Soil
Survey Bulletin No.36. An Foras Talúntais, Dublin.
Gwynn, A. and Hadcock, R.N. 1970. Medieval Religious Houses. Ireland. London.
Holland, CH (ed.) 1981. A Geology of Ireland. Scottish Academic Press, Edinburgh.
Irish Archaeological Wetland Unit, UCD, 2001. ‘Cavemount, Esker & Derryhinch Bogs, Cos Meath,
Offaly & Westmeath’, in Peatland Survey Report 2001.
Irish Archaeological Wetland Unit, 2002. ‘Fieldwork 2000, Counties Westmeath and Offaly’ in I.
Bennett (ed.) Excavations 2000. Bray, Wordwell.
Murphy, D. 2003. ‘Archaeological Excavation Report for site K-E-K M4 Motorway, Contract 1,
Kinnegad 2, Co. Westmeath, Licence 02E0926’, Unpublished report by Archaeological
Consultancy Services Ltd.
Murphy, D. 2004. ‘Kinnegad 2, Multi-period smelting site 25838 24541 02E0926 Co. Westmeath’ in
I. Bennett (ed.) Excavations 2002. Bray Wordwell.
Ordnance Survey field name Books of the County of Westmeath, 1837.
Pleiner, R. 2000. Iron in Archaelogy: The European Bloomery Smelters. Oxford, Oxbow Books.
Riada Consult, 2003. ‘N6 Kinnegad to Athlone Dual Carriageway Environmental Impact Statement’,
Unpublished report for Westmeath County Council.
Scott, B. 1991. Early Irish Ironworking. Belfast, Ulster Museum.
Walsh, Rev. Paul, 1957. The Placenames of Westmeath. Dublin
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21. 13
Figures
Monganstown
Monganstown
Clonfad Mill 2
1
Rattin 3
Rattin 5
Rattin 4
E2771 | A001/01 Monganstown 1, Co. Westmeath
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Farthingstown
6
Farthingstown
Farthingstown 10
11
Farthingstown
Kiltotan and
Kiltotan and 8
Collinstown
Collinstown Site 12
Site 14
Farthingstown
9
Kiltotan and
Collinstown
Site 13
0m 2000m
Figure 1: General situation of site along the route of the new road N6 Kinnegad to Kilbeggan Discovery Series Map
ISSUE 3: Eachtra Journal - ISSN 2009-2237
15
22. N
Morganstown002-
Late Medieval Field
system
E2771 | A001/01 Monganstown 1, Co. Westmeath
56000.000
55500.000
Rattin 004-
56500.0
Postmedieval Building Moranstown001-
00
55000.000
Rattin003- Ironworking site
57500.000
Wooden trackway
57000.000
54500.000
54000.000
53500.000
530
00.0
00
Rattin005-
Hearth
52
50
0.0
00
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Legend:
Archaeological sites
C.P.O. outline
Test Trenchs
0m 1 Km
Figure 2: Monganstown 1 in relation to trenches of archaeological centreline testing that was carried out
along the route of the new road
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16
23. Clonfad Mill Monganstown
Monganstown
Rattin 3 2
1
Rattin 5
Rattin 4
E2771 | A001/01 Monganstown 1, Co. Westmeath
Farthingstown
6
Farthingstown
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Kiltotan and 7
Farthingstown
Collinstown 10
Site 12 Farthingstown
Kiltotan and 11
Collinstown Farthingstown
Site 14 8
Farthingstown
9
Kiltotan and
Collinstown
Site 13
Earthwork
Ecclesiastical Site N
0km 2km
Castle
Potential Site
Ringfort
Rectangular enclosure
Motte
Barrow
Figure 3: RMP sites near the route of the new road N6 Kinnegad to Kilbeggan
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17
24. N
C.21
C.15
C.79 C.66
C.18 C.24
C.52
C.69 C.2
C.50
C.20
C.60
C.63
C.78
C.74
C.57
C.40
C.27
C47 C.45
C.12
C.10
C.6
C.8
C.23
1m 0 5m
E2771 | A001/01 Monganstown 1, Co. Westmeath
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Kinnega
d River
57500.0
00
57000.000
Monganstown A001/01
Ironworking site
E 257923 N 244632
E 257923 N 244602
0 200 m
Figure 4: The excavated site showing three areas of excavation (Areas 1, 2 and 3) at Monganstown 1, Co. Westmeath (A001/01)
ISSUE 3: Eachtra Journal - ISSN 2009-2237
18
25. N
C.21
C.15
C.79 C.66
C.18 C.24
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C.52
C.69 C.2
C.50
C.20
L1
C.60
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C.63
K1 C.78
T1
C.74 S1
C.57
20 E 30 E 35 E 40 E 45 E
0N 0N 0N 0N E F 0N
C.40
C.27
C47 C.45
C.12
C.10
C.6
C.8
C.23
Monganstown A001-001 Post-Excavation Plan
Furnace Possible Clay Extraction Pits Extent of Excavation
Indicating areas of different soil type 1m 0 5m
Charcoal Pit Non-Archaeological
Figure 5: Area of excavation in Area 1 at Monganstown 1
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42.20 E 42.66 E
0N E F 0N
58
59
57
1 0 cm 0 5 0 cm
63.55 E
1.00 N
Baked clay 36.42 E
2.28 N
K L
61
60
62
1 0 cm 0 5 0 cm
W E
S1 T1
64
63
65
75
1 0 cm 0 5 0 cm
Figure 6: Sections through furnaces C.57, C.60 and C.63
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14 Plates
Plate 1: General site photograph
Plate 2: General site photograph
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