Tobermacduagh

On the S bank of a small stream. This spring well was surrounded by the remains of a rectangular wellhouse (ext. dims. 2.44m E-W; c. 2m N-S) constructed of mortared stone walls (Wth 0.46m-0.53; max. ext. H 0.5m). The S wall was built against the trunk of a mature tree. The entrance (Wth 0.86m), centrally placed in the N wall, was flanked on either side by small square recesses, both of which contained coins. Water flowed from the well, through a stone channel (Wth 0.3m), in a NNE direction before joining the stream. Though open to the sky, the structure may once have been roofed (SMR file, 1954). A cross (GA105-003----) stood c. 5m to the W beside which were a recumbent cross-slab (GA105-003002-) and architectural fragment (GA105-003003-). Faint traces of a hollow to the S of well may mark the line of an older course of the stream. (McCaffrey 1952, 253, no. 23a) Compiled by: Galway Archaeological Survey, UCG Date of upload: 16 November 2022

Tobermacduagh is traditionally associated with Saint MacDuagh, an early Irish Christian saint venerated for his healing miracles. The well was historically visited for its supposed curative properties, particularly for eye ailments and general healing, with rituals often involving the collection of water at dawn.