Cross-slab in Aghowle Lower (shillelagh By.)

Twenty cross slabs (WI042-019006-/033-) can be seen scattered about Aghowle graveyard (WI042-019003-), all of which have been reused as upright burial markers, which largely explains the main distribution of the cross slabs in the southern part of the graveyard, coinciding with the main area of 18th and 19th century headstones. It is clear that the majority of the cross slabs were originally intended as recumbent slabs, however, their current use as upright headstones means that most of the slabs are partially concealed, thereby limiting the visible features. The majority are schist slabs, except for Cross slabs 2, 11, 15 and 16 which are of granite (Corlett 2019). Described by Corlett (2019) as following; 'Cross slab 6 is situated c. 10m south-east of Aghowle Church (WI042-019001-). The slab measures 77cm in total length and is 9cm thick. The slab is 47cm wide at the top and tapers to 40cm wide at the base. On the east face is an incised, cusped cross that measures 37cm across and 60cm in total height. The shaft is 8.5cm wide and terminates in a point, similar to cross slab 8 described below. There is also an incised right angle within each angle of the cross, the upper two linking into a frame that extends across the top and down the sides of the slab'. Compiled by: Chris Corlett and Claire Breen Revised by: Caimin O'Brien based on details provided by Chris Corlett Date of revised upload: 12 March 2020