Ordnance Ground, Admiralty Property

On rocky island of Haulbowline, between Great Island and Ringaskiddy, in Cork Harbour. Possible Viking occupation of island (Jefferies 1985, 16) maybe reflected in name (O Murchadha 1982, 142). Earliest known fortification here is fort begun in summer of 1602 to design of Paul Ive (Ives/Ivye)(Brunicardi 1982, 8-12); though garrisoned in October still unfinished by March 1603 (Hayes-McCoy 1604, 32). Contemporary plans show 'an irregular work based on a quadrangle with demi-bastions on the north, or cliff edge, and two bastions on the southern corners' (Gowen 1978, 246). Slightly later (1608-11), a keep, gatehouse, etc. were added (ibid, 249). Brunicardi (1965-6, 21) describes remains of some of these features, including keep 'now only about 15 feet in height', but Gowen (1979, 251) found 'the whole area has been subject to much disturbance' and concludes 'it is unlikely that any diagnostic features remain'. By 1624 fort abandoned and remained in disrepair throughout rest of 17th and 18th centuries (Brunicardi 1982,11-15). In 1806 island divided between Ordnance (W) and Navy (E), the line marked by high stone wall. Ordnance built Martello Tower (CO087-05903-) on high ground to N in area of old fort; also a barracks with storehouses,workshops etc.. Navy built a supply depot or victualling yard, most prominent feature of which was six large warehouses, still surviving, as do many other early 19th century buildings shown on 1842 OS 6-inch map. Later dockyard (1865-1887) built on reclaimed ground to E of island (Brunicardi, 1965-6, 28-32). Island now jointly shared by Irish Naval Service and Irish Steel. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

A local fairy fort (ringfort/rath) on Haulbowline Island, likely early medieval in date, situated on a rocky island with possible Viking associations; folklore and historical records are sparse, though the site may reflect both prehistoric and later military uses of the island.