Mass-rock in Rathduff (rathconrath By.)

Rathduff mass-rock situated on NNE facing rock outcrop with good views to N and E. Curving field boundary depicted on 1837 ed. OS 6-inch map represents the quarried face of the rock outcrop. Large irregular shaped boulder (H 0.75m; L 1.2m x Wth 0.8m) with an encircled (diam. 0.22m) sunken cross (dims. 0.16m x 0.16m) carved on N face of boulder. Flat-topped surface of boulder was used as an altar during penal times. Rough flagstone seat located to E. The estate records of William Meade Smythe recorded that there 'is a rock called (Carraig an Affrin) tradition tells that a Mass was celebrated at this rock in the penal days. A cross with circle round it is quite plain to be seen on it and must be cut on it to commemorate the deed. I have heard it stated that people, old men and women, could be seen praying at this rock in olden times' (igp-web.com/IGPArchives/ire/westmeath/land/legends.txt). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 29 November 2017