Metalworking site in Drinnanstown South

Identified in 2001 through the monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the eastern slope of Boston Hill (OD 538 feet) to facilitate the expansion of a quarry (Excavations 2001, No. 638, 01E0916: www.excavations.ie). Archaeological deposits were uncovered in seven areas: Area 1 (Designated KD017-052----), Area 2 (Designated KD017-050----), Area 3 (Designated KD017-051----), Area 4 (Designated KD017-053----), Area 5 (Designated KD017-054----), Area 6 (Designated KD017-055----) and Area 7 (Designated KD017-056----). According to the excavator (SMR file), 'Following discussions with the client, it has been established that quarry works will not impact upon Areas 2 to 7 for an estimated 30 years. It may therefore be possible to provide archaeological mitigation for these areas in the form of preservation in situ.' Area 4 (KD017-053----) was approximately 20m north-west of Area 3 in the southern part of the site. There were sixteen features within an area of 750m2. The archaeology was comprised of possible pits and stake-holes. An integrated structural feature may become apparent when the area is fully cleaned back and excavated. Iron slag and burnt stone contained within two of the features suggest that this area is directly related to the metalworking activities of Area 3 (KD017-051----). Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy Date of upload: 10 June 2011