Standing stone in Newtown OR Skirk

A limestone slab (H c. 2.4m, Wth c. 1.1m, T c. 0.5m) situated within a henge-type enclosure (LA021-021001-). Atop high ground with good views of undulating countryside. Church (LA021-010001-) and graveyard (LA021-010002-) in adjoining field to N. Nearby standing stone (LA021-023) in field to SE. Henge monument (LA021-021001-) that was converted into a motte and bailey (LA021-021002-) with standing stone in centre of henge. Situated within the bailey at Skirk. A limestone, rectangular shaped stone (H. c. 2.4m, W. c. 1.1m, T. c. 0.5m) with it slong axis orientated NE-SW. Traces of burials and urns (LA021-021007-) were found beside the standing stone in the bailey or henge (LA021-021001-) interior (JRSAI, Vol 34, 321). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 17 December 2007

Probably dates to the Neolithic or Early Bronze Age, given its association with a henge-type enclosure, suggesting ritual or ceremonial use. Such stones may have marked territorial boundaries, aligned with celestial events, or served as focal points for local communities.