The Sinners Stone — Kilquane (barretts By.)

In pasture, at base of S-facing slope, on N side of road, directly opposite ruin of Kilquane church (CO042-068004-); prostrate slab (L 1.9m; 0.7m x 0.3m) with smooth hole (diam. 0.1m) drilled through it. Known locally as "Cloch na Peacaib" (the sinner's stone); according to Windele, writing in1848, 'women, nearing their confinement, used to draw clothes through the hole in order to ensure a favourable delivery' (Logan 1980, 106). According to Grove-White (1905-25, vol. 3, 323), the stone 'formerly stood a little higher up the ascent'. The road, which now separates the stone from the ruined church, was not constructed until the mid-19th century. Original location record CO042-113----. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 3: Mid Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of revision: 17 December 2009 Revised by: Mary Tunney This monument is subject to a preservation order made under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 (PO no. 1/1993).