Sheepfolds

Upslope from KE080-053----, a complex of four open-ended fields. In the lowest field are six structures, two of which may be animal shelters. (1) KE080-054----; In the W half of the field, the collapsed rectangular foundations of a hut. D: 2.7m x 2m. (2) In the NE quadrant of the field, a well-built rectangular hut, its W half modified for use as a sheepfold. Large upright slabs line the inner wall-face, and a parallel row of uprights mark the entrance passage at N. D: 3m x 2.5m. T: .9m. (3) Abutting the field wall at N, a hut of roughly circular plan. Uprights flank the inner wall-face and a parallel row of orthostats define the .8m wide entrance passage at E. D: 4.2m x 3.4m. H: 1.4m. T: .8m. (4) On the line of the field wall W of (3), a lintelled structure, probably a lamb shelter. (5) Outside the field, adjecent to (3) a collapsed circular mound of stone. D: 2.1m x 1.4m. (6) Adjacent at W an overgrown lintelled structure, probably a lamb shelter. Two massive upright slaps comprise its N side. D: 2.4m x .9m. A seventh structure, noted by Henry (1957, 81), is no longer apparent. The above description is derived from A. O'Sullivan and J. Sheehan (compilers), 'The Iveragh peninsula: an archaeological survey of South Kerry'. Cork University Press (1996), no. 1179. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 31 July 2013