What is recorded here

Oughtmama is where North Clare still keeps its only known cross-slabs, buried beneath the largest church rather than displayed like trophies. Men with hammers and ledgers found them in the late 1800s, then forgot where they put them, leaving behind a place that remembers more than it admits. The crosses may have marked death, prayer or ownership, but their names have worn smooth. What remains is a room full of absent edges, waiting for someone honest enough to stop asking permission and start listening.

In the largest church at Oughtmama (CL003-032002-). Swinfen (1992, 103) noted that a number of slabs with carved crosses had been found here by the Board of Works in the late 19th century, and that the present location of these slabs was unknown. Westropp (1900-02, 130) noted that several slabs, with defaced Irish inscriptions lay in the chancel. A full list of references to the slabs is given in Okasha and Forsyth (2001, 107-8). Sheehan (1982, 44) notes that they are the only cross-slabs known in North Clare. Compiled by: Mary Tunney Date of upload: 15 July 2015

Dateable to the early medieval period, likely between the 8th and 11th centuries, the cross-slab reflects a Christian presence in the area, possibly associated with the church. Such stones often served as grave markers or commemorative monuments, and their carved crosses may indicate local religious practice or connections to monastic activity.

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.