Field system in Killeen

This site was identified by geophysical survey (Licence no. 05R030Ext) and confirmed by test excavation (Licence no. 05E0415) within Killeen Castle Demesne in advance of golf course development. Characterised by a cellular layout the field system is associated with a D-shaped enclosure (ME038-049001-) and was truncated centrally by a NE/SW laneway and to the south by 19th century quarrying. A small area (40m NS x 30m EW) of the field system was excavated. This area was defined by two intersecting ditches (Wth 2.1-3.9m) that formed the western and southern elements of the field system. Internally the focus of activity was a series of six pits (diam. 0.5-2m) and drainage features within a confined area (dims 8m N-S; 11m E-W). All yielded animal bone and crop seeds (oats, barley and wheat). Radiocarbon analysis of samples from the enclosing ditches and internal activity returned a date range of AD 691-1018 (Baker 2009, 53). Compiled by: Christine Baker Date of upload: 22 February 2015