Indicated — Rathfran

Located in a small bay of intertidal mudflats created by a bend in the River Moy, in the upper reaches of its estuary. It is directly opposite Rathfran Abbey (MA015-031005-), which stands 100m to N on the N bank of the river. This enigmatic structure is not indicated on the 1838 OS 6-inch map; it is shown as a small island on the 1922 edition. It is evident as an oblong or subrectangular, grass-covered mound (8-9m N–S; 3.5-4m E–W; H c. 1.2m), with sloping sides that rise to a narrow top (Wth 1.5m E–W). It is covered by a thick mantle of grass, but stones can be glimpsed intermittently around the base of the mound. These appear to be deliberately set, possibly part of a wall or revetment. A flat apron of firm, stony grass-covered ground (Wth 5-8m) encircles the base of the mound, but beyond that is a semi-flooded area of salt marsh/mudflats infiltrated by a network of narrow water channels, so that the structure effectively stands as a small raised island, c. 40-70m from the dry mainland river bank. The function and antiquity of this structure is unknown; it is possible that it is contemporary with the occupation of the monastery, perhaps serving as boat moorings or a fishing platform. Attached images: MA015-031008-_01.JPG viewed from S MA015-031008-_02.JPG viewed from E MA015-031008-_03.JPG viewed from NW MA015-031008-_04.JPG viewed from N Compiled by: Jane O’Shaughnessy Date of upload: 31 December 2019