Crannog in Coolure Demesne

Listed by O'Sullivan (2004, 66-7) as Coolure Demesne 3. Situated on the N shoreline of Lough Derravaragh overlooked by the impressive ringfort (WM007-003---) 100m to NW, and a crannóg (WM007-004----) 160m to SW. Described by O'Sullivan (ibid.) as following; 'a large natural, but enhanced, island (dims. 45m N-S x 25m E-W; H 2m) that is irregular in plan and profile. It has a straight west side, with a more irregular east and south shore. It has straight sides to the N, E and W and slopes gradually down to the water on the S side. There is natural bedrock visible in parts (with a spur running out into the water from the SE corner), while the surface is also covered with large boulders and stones. The island is masked under trees and bushes (pine, whitethorn, ash). There is a kerb of boulders along the N side, defining the island from the shore. An unusual causeway runs from the island to the shore, despite the fact that it is clearly joined anyway to the land by a natural spur. This causeway runs N-S out from the island, then turns to the E (5m out from the island). The causeway measures L 18m x 50cm in width, 25cm in height, and is constructed of a double row of boulders. A modern concrete quay and steps are found on the SW side of the island, and it is dissected across its E-W width by a modern field-wall. Although this is clearly a natural island, it appears to have been enhanced in various ways. Its existence on the shore opposite the early medieval crannóg (WM007-004----) at Coolure Demesne 1 may perhaps increase the social and ideological importance of that constructed island'. (O'Sullivan et. al. 2007, 119-20) Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 13 February 2017