PROJECT DETAILS

Project M3 –Kells Motorway Site Name Castletown Tara 1 Ministerial Direction Number A008/025 Registration Number E3078 Senior Archaeological Consultant Donald Murphy Site Director Stuart D. Elder Excavated 04 December 2006 – 31 March 2007

Townland Castletown Tara Parish Tara National Grid Reference 292003 261818 Chainage 30700–31000 Height OD 63.72m

Report Type Final Report Status Submitted

Date of Report April 2009 Report by Stuart D. Elder

Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This report has been prepared by Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd on behalf of Meath County Council National Roads Design Office (NRDO) and the (NRA). The excavation was carried out under Ministerial Directions issued by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DOEHLG) in consultation with the National Museum of Ireland (NMI).

Consulting Engineers - N3 Meath Consult Engineer – Peter Thorne and Thomas Meagher Engineer’s Representative – Gillian Cogan

Meath County Council, National Roads Design Office Senior Engineer – John McGrath Project Archaeologist – Mary Deevy Project Liaison Officer – Ambrose Clarke

National Monuments, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Archaeologist – Martin Reid

Irish Antiquities Division, National Museum of Ireland Keeper – Nessa O’Connor

i Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY This site at Castletown Tara 1 was excavated by Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd (ACS) as part of the M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme on behalf of Meath County Council NRDO and the NRA. The excavation was carried out between 04 December 2006 and 31 March 2007 under Ministerial Direction Number A008/025 issued by DOEHLG in consultation with the NMI. Excavation commenced in the northeastern corner of the field (Area 1), revealing a complex of ditches, pits and postholes, some extending beyond the excavation area to the south and west. A subsequent geophysical survey carried out by Target Archaeological Geophysics in January 2007 under Ministerial Direction A008/080 located a number of ill-defined linears and other magnetic responses towards the centre of the survey area, west and south of excavation Area 1. Many of these were thought to represent recent agricultural activity or geological anomalies (Nicholls & Shiels 2007).

Topsoil stripping of the entire field took place in February 2007 and a large extensive site was identified. The site itself was divided into four separate areas for the purpose of the excavation: Area 1a, Area 1b, Area 2a and Area 2b. The largest and most substantial area contained the entire northeastern extent of the site and was labelled Area 1a. Numerous ditches, gullies, linear features, three kilns, two possible kilns, a possible structure, a possible palisade of posts, and isolated scattered pits and postholes were located here. Three of the ditch features within this section of the site were dated from the fifth–seventh centuries AD and two of the kilns were dated from the sixth–eighth centuries AD which would place activity within this area to the early medieval period. No area of occupation was identified within Area 1a (absence of hearths, domestic finds etc) and the identified structure was quite small (diameter c. 2.5m) and not large enough to have functioned as a house structure. It is possible that it functioned as a temporary feature and may have been associated with the nearby kilns. It is likely that the series of ditches and gullies represented contemporary and successive small enclosures/field systems and drainage features and were associated with agricultural activities. The presence of kilns would also reinforce this: it was not unusual for kilns to be located within an area that was been utilised for farming purposes etc. and away from the actual settlement area. It is, however, quite possible that an associated early medieval settlement site lies – as of yet undiscovered – outside the proposed roadtake. Finds from this section of the site were few but included lithic artefacts (majority of which were redeposited and in fact prehistoric in date (late Mesolithic, early Neolithic and late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age) and not contemporary with the early medieval phase of activity), local medieval pottery (two sherds), local fine ware (two sherds), imported E-ware (two sherds), horseshoe fragment, two small fragments of slag, a possible quernstone fragment, possible wooden peg, and a possible fragment of leather.

ii Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Area 1b was situated southwest of Area 1a and was dominated by agricultural activity in the form of land drains and plough furrows. The only notable feature within this area was a single pit that contained charcoal burnt bone and a piece of flint. The date of this feature is not known.

Area 2a was located to the south and southwest of Area 1. Two features of archaeological significance were identified and consisted of the remains of a possible hearth and a single pit. Charcoal flecks and burnt clay were recovered from both features. The date of these features is also unknown.

The final area, Area 2b, was located upslope and to the south of Area 1 and Area 2a and was located adjacent to the southern boundary of the site, approximately 60m south of Area 1 and contained the remains of 18 cremation pits, one possible cremation pit, three postholes, a pit, and a possible cut. The cremation pits were located in two small clusters: 15 were located along the western boundary and four were located at a short distance to the ESE. A significant quantity of charcoal, charred remains and lithic artefacts were recovered from the cremation pits. The cremated bone from a single pit could be identified as possibly human and bone from a second could be identified as animal. It would appear that these features represent the remains of a prehistoric cemetery site. A single cremation pit was radiocarbon dated to the late Neolithic period and it is possible that the entire cemetery dates to this period.

Castletown Tara 1 therefore is a site that displays evidence of usage at various intervals throughout the prehistoric and historic period. The analysis of the lithic artefacts (although not from secure contexts) would suggest a presence in this area from the late Mesolithic, through to the early Neolithic and early Neolithic/Late Bronze Age. This late Neolithic presence is reconfirmed by the radiocarbon date obtained from a crab apple recovered from one of the cremation pits. The site was subsequently abandoned and was seemingly not utilised until the early medieval period. Radiocarbon dating would suggest that this site was then used from the fifth–eighth centuries AD. The recovery of local medieval pottery and local fine wares would suggest a presence within the area from the 13th–14th centuries (pottery recovered from hillwash and not secure stratigraphic contexts).

iii Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION 1 1.1 Development 1

2 EXCAVATION 2 2.1 Results 3 2.1.1 Area 1a 3 2.1.2 Area 1b 12 2.1.3 Area 2a 13 2.1.4 Area 2b 13 2.2 Finds 18

3 DISCUSSION 21 3.1 Form and function 21 3.1.1 Area 1a 21 3.1.2 Area 2b 25 3.1.3 Conclusion 27 3.1.4 Surrounding Environment 28 3.2 Date and sequence 30

4 CONCLUSIONS 32

5 REFERENCES 32

APPENDIX 1 Context Details APPENDIX 2 Finds List APPENDIX 3 Sample List APPENDIX 4 Topsoil Assessment: Maria Lear & Stuart Rathbone APPENDIX 5 Radiocarbon Dates APPENDIX 6 Animal Bone Report: Charlotte Coles APPENDIX 7 Environmental Report: Archaeological Services University of Durham APPENDIX 8 Medieval Pottery: Niamh Doyle APPENDIX 9 Imported Pottery: Ian Doyle APPENDIX 10 Leather Report: John Nicholl APPENDIX 11 Archaeometallurgical Report: Angela Wallace APPENDIX 12 Wood Remains: Ellen O’Carroll APPENDIX 13 Lithics and Worked Stone Report: Graeme Warren APPENDIX 14 Cereal drying and Metallurgy at Lismullin Co Meath: A preliminary analysis: Jonathan Kinsella

FIGURE LIST Figure 1: Location of Castletown Tara 1 Figure 2: Location of Castletown Tara 1 on current OS background

iv Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Figure 3: Castletown Tara 1, extract from 1st edition OS, Meath sheets 31 & 32 Figure 4: Castletown Tara 1, extract from 2nd edition OS, Meath sheets 31 & 32 Figure 5: Castletown Tara 1, extract from 3rd edition OS, Meath sheets 31 & 32 Figure 6: Detailed location of Castletown Tara 1 Figure 7: Post-excavation plan of site Figure 8: Post-excavation plan of Area 1a Figure 9: Post-excavation plan of Area 2a and b Figure 10: Sections Figure 11: Sections Figure 12: Sections Figure 13: Sections Figure 14: Sections Figure 15: Sections Figure 16: Sections Figure 17: Sections Figure 18: Sections Figure 19: Profiles Figure 20: Profiles Figure 21: Sections

PLATE LIST Plate 1: Section through Curvilinear B from east Plate 2: Section through Linear F from east Plate 3: Section through Rectilinear J from south Plate 4: Section through Curvilinear M from south-east Plate 5: Stake-built structure, post-excavation from north-east Plate 6: Post row/fence, post-excavation from north Plate 7: Kiln 1, post-excavation from north Plate 8: Kiln 2, post-excavation from south-west Plate 9: Kiln 2, flue mid-excavation from south-west Plate 10: Kiln 3, post-excavation from east Plate 11: Area 1, post-excavation from west Plate 12: Cremation pits, post-excavation from north-west Plate 13: Aerial photograph of Area 1 from north Plate 14: Leaf shaped arrowhead A008/025:12:1 Plate 15: Flint arrowhead A008/025:12:6 Plate 16: Flint scraper A008/025:12:12 v Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Plate 17: Flint arrowhead A008/025:12:16 Plate 18: Flint arrowhead A008/025:12:18 Plate 19: Flint blade A008/025:933:1 Plate 20: Rounded flint scraper A008/025:933:2 Plate 21: Flint blade A008/025:939:1 Plate 22: Flint end scraper A008/025:939:2

vi Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

vii Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

1 INTRODUCTION The site at Castletown Tara 1 (Figures 1–6) was identified during advance testing carried out by Paul Stevens during 2004 under licence number 04E0429 (Stevens 2004). Testing revealed a series of ditches, pits and bowl furnaces, with charcoal-rich fills and occasional burnt bone, suggesting possible prehistoric settlement, burial and industrial activity (Stevens 2004). A Topsoil Assessment (Metal Detection, Field Walking and Test Pits) was carried out on the site in 2005 and a total of 19 finds of modern origin were collected (Appendix 4).

Excavation commenced in an area in the northeastern corner of the field (Area 1), revealing a complex of ditches, pits and postholes, some extending beyond the excavation area to the north and east. A subsequent geophysical survey carried out by Target Archaeological Geophysics in January 2007 under Ministerial Direction A008/080 located a number of ill- defined linears and other magnetic responses towards the centre of the survey area west and south of excavation Area 1. Many of these were thought to represent recent agricultural activity or geological anomalies (Nicholls & Shiels 2007).

Topsoil stripping of the entire field took place in February 2007, and over 70 additional features were revealed, including pits, postholes, ditches, kilns, and a cluster of cremation pits. The site was subsequently divided into four areas for the purpose of the excavation. Area 1a comprised all the linear ditches, gullies, pits, postholes, kilns, possible structure, and palisade that were identified in the NNE extent of the site and appeared to represent the remains of an early medieval site associated with agricultural activities. Area 1b largely consisted of agricultural features and a single pit and was located southwest of Area 1a; Area 2a consisted of a single pit and possible hearth and was located SSE of Area 1a; while Area 2b were found close to the western fence line approximately 60m southwest of Area 1 and contained the remains of a prehistoric cremation cemetery.

1.1 Development Meath County Council is constructing 49km of two-lane, dual-carriageway motorway between Clonee and Kells and 10km of single carriageway from Kells to just north of Kells alongside additional road upgrades, realignments and associated ancillary works. The scheme has been subdivided into five separate sections as follows: Clonee to (Contract 1), Dunshaughlin to (Contract 2), the Navan Bypass (Contract 3), Navan to Kells and the N52 Kells Bypass (Contract 4), and Kells to North of Kells (Contract 5). This section of the scheme (Contract 1) commences at the end of the existing Clonee Bypass, immediately east of (NGR 303070, 241625), and proceeds in a northwestern direction, finishing to the west of Dunshaughlin (NGR 295567, 253082).

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

The desk-based study and the field survey for the whole scheme, carried out in 2000–2001, were divided into sections which were investigated by Valerie J Keeley Ltd and Margaret Gowen and Company Ltd. The Record of Monuments and Places, the Sites and Monuments Record, Topographical files, and literary sources were all consulted. This information was augmented by geophysical testing conducted by Bartlett-Clark Consultancy who undertook a magnetometer survey across sample transects which was then supplemented by magnetic susceptibility, and also by GSB Prospection who undertook gradiometer scanning and a detailed gradiometer survey. The Environmental Impact Survey (EIS) compiled this data set to identify approximately 100 sites of interest either along the route or in its proximity (500m of the landtake). Advance archaeological testing was completed in 2004 by ACS and Irish Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd (IAC). Excavation of the sites identified during testing was conducted by ACS and IAC on behalf of Meath County Council, and the NRA under directions issued by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government following consultation with the Director of the National Museum of Ireland.

2 EXCAVATION Excavation occurred between 4 December 2006 and 31 March 2007 under Ministerial Direction Number A008/025 issued to Meath County Council NRDO. The work was carried out by Stuart Elder on behalf of ACS. The dark yellowish brown silty clay topsoil was removed mechanically under archaeological supervision, onto the pale yellowish brown silty clay subsoil. All archaeological features were cut into the subsoil.

All archaeological features exposed were recorded and excavated by hand using the single context method. Each feature was assigned a context number. Where appropriate, samples were retrieved in an attempt to obtain evidence for the date and function of these features (Appendix 3). Unless otherwise stated, the features have been measured length-width-depth. All measurements are in metres. All finds were numbered according to the requirements of the National Museum of Ireland from 1 onwards consistent with licence and feature number. The finds recovered from the site underwent an initial archaeological assessment and where deemed appropriate further specialist analysis was carried out on each artefact type. All radiocarbon dates are quoted in calibrated, two sigma form; their calibrated dates derived from Oxcal are also given.

The entire field was stripped as a result of anomalies highlighted by geophysical survey to the south and west of the initial excavation area. The survey results suggested that activity was spread across a wide area, and the excavation was subsequently divided into four separate areas (Area 1a, Area 1b, Area 2a and Area 2b).

2 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

2.1 Results A total of 1044 contexts were identified, of which all but 64 were of archaeological interest. Only the principal archaeological features of Castletown Tara 1 will be discussed within this report; full details of all these, and further, contexts are located in Appendix 1.

2.1.1 Area 1a Area 1a was the designation given to the initial excavation area in the northeastern corner of the field (Figures 7–8; Plates 11 and 13). This was the largest of the four areas and comprised a complex of linear (including F992, F900, F905, F904), rectilinear (F1025), and curvilinear ditches (F262, F919, F993) and gullies (F929, F358, F907, F994, F1033, F119), three cereal- drying kilns (F548: Kiln 1, F883: Kiln 2, F921: Kiln 3), two possible kilns (F992: Kiln 4, F1006: Kiln 5), a stake-built circular structure (F363, F369, F371–F374, F376, F378), a line of postholes (F117, F118, F198, F232, F294, F480, F485, F553, F557, F561, F575 and F665), and a number of scattered pits (F157, F254, F258, F284, F388, F537–F540, F679, F713, F714, F750, F760, F778 (Figure 21), F906, F962, F996–F998). In the northeastern corner of the area, there was an extensive deposit of hill-wash (F12) that had precipitated down slope and built up over time behind the gravel ridge that formed the northern site boundary. This deposit sealed a number of features, including the structure, Kiln 1 (F548), and other features along the northernmost edge of the site.

2.1.1.1 Ditches and Gullys Ditch A (F992) Ditch A (F992: 18m x 1.34m x 0.95m deep; Figures 8 and 12) was orientated roughly east– west, and formed the northern boundary of the sub-rectangular area in the centre of Area 1a (defined by ditch F1025 (Ditch J) on all three other sides). It contained 59 fills (F13–F15, F398–F427, F432–F436, F440–F441, F486–F489, F702–F705, F737–F738, F743–F747, F1009–F1011, F1032), many of which were redeposited mid-grey or mid-orangey brown clay. This ditch may have been the earliest linear on the site, but each end was truncated by later ditches (it was cut by ditch J (F1025) to the west and intersected by Ditch H (F905) to the east), so it is not known what its original form or full extent was. It was also partly truncated along the southern edge by Ditch F (F900).

Curvilinear Ditch B (F262) Ditch B consisted of a curvilinear ditch (F262: c. 15m x 1.20m x 0.78m deep; Figures 8 and 13; Plate 1) that was located within the area defined by the Ditch A (F992) and Ditch J (F1025). It extended from Ditch F (F900) which truncated Ditch A (F262), and was orientated roughly north–south. A gap/entrance was visible to the east (stopped just short of the eastern

3 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme extent of Ditch J (F1025)). It contained 74 fills (F16 & F21–F93). The southeastern terminus contained a number of deposits of burnt material in a discrete oval pocket. Charcoal, charred grain and burnt bone were recovered from various fills (ASUD; Appendix 7). Alder, hazel, ash, maloideae, cherries, and oak were recovered from F22 with hazel being the most predominant; hazel, ash, cherries and oak were recovered from F24 with oak being the most predominant; hazel and ash were recovered from F61 with hazel being the most predominant; oak was recovered from F64 and hazel/alder and ash were recovered from F82 with the latter species being the most predominant (ibid). A sample of hazel from F22 was radiocarbon dated to AD 420–610 (Beta 247046; Oxcal: AD 426–601; Appendix 5). Charred remains from F22 were identified as oat species (seven small grains), barley species (43 grains), wheat species (six grains) and sedges (a trigonous nutlet) and barley species (20 grains) were recovered from F24 (ASUD; Appendix 7). Uncharred remains from F22 consisted of a single fumitory seed. A shale whetstone was recovered from F59 (A008/025:59:1).

Curvilinear Ditch D (F919) The small curvilinear ditch F919 (8m x 0.54m x 0.20m; Figure 8) was located towards the southern extent of Area 1a, south of the subrectangular feature defined by Ditches J (F1025) and A (F992). It was located immediately south and east of Kiln 3 (F651) and may have functioned as some sort of windbreak. Ten fills were contained with F919 (F909–F918) and they generally consisted of a moderately compact/compact grey/brown/yellow silty clay that contained inclusions of pebbles, stones and decayed stone. Occasional flecks of charcoal were recovered from F909–F911 and iron panning was also visible in F910 and F911.

Ditch F (F900) The linear ditch F900 (50m+ x 1.20m x 0.50m deep; Figures 8 and 12; Plate 2) crossed the site from east to west, turning downslope at its western extent. It contained 65 fills (F95– F109, F235–F236, F245, F248–F253, F272–F275, F277, F397, F505–F519, F692, F740– F742, F806, F894–F899, & F1008), and appears to have been the latest of the ditches and gullies in Area 1a. It truncated Ditch A (F992), which ran parallel to F900 along its northern edge, Ditch J (F1025) which lay north and south of F900, the curvilinear Ditch B (F262) which was located immediately to the south and Ditch H (F905) which also lay north and south of F900. A sherd of E-ware (shoulder/body sherd; A008/025:248:1), was recovered from the fill (F248) of this ditch close to the junction with Curvilinear Ditch B (F262). Flint – butt trimmed form – (A008/025:95:1) and a flint convex scraper (A008/025:252:1) were also recovered from F900 (Warren; Appendix 13).

4 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Ditch H (F905) This feature was located towards the western extent of Area 1a. F905 (25m x 0.38–2.40m x 0.24m deep; Figures 8 and 11) crossed Area 1a in a north–south direction and was cut by the east–west Ditch F (F900). The southern extent of this feature also appeared to partially cut the eastern extent of Ditch J (F1025). It was cut at its northern end by a large pit F388, and by Gully N (F907). It contained 63 fills (F124, F130–F135, F137–F143, F145–F152, F213– F220, F223–F230, F238–F240, F276, F288–F289, F324–F326, F330–F342 & F542–F543), and may have been one of the earliest features on the site. Charcoal and charred remains were recovered from some of these fills (ASUD; Appendix 7). Charcoal from F124 was identified as hazel, ash, maloideae, oak and guilder-rose with oak being the most predominant; hazel and oak were recovered from F131 with hazel being the most predominant; hazel, ash and oak were recovered from F138 with hazel being the most predominant; cherries was recovered from F139 and hazel and ash was recovered from F142. A sample of maloideae from F124 was radiocarbon dated to AD 440–640 (Beta 247047; Oxcal: AD 434–644; Appendix 5). Charred remains from F124 were identified as cultivated oat (one floret base), oat species (136 large grains, 244 small grains), cerealia indeterminate (70 grains and one culm node), barley species (1993 grains, four grain sprouting), hulled barley (176 grains), six-row barley (40 twisted grains), six-row hulled barley (four twisted grains), rye (eight grains) and wheat species (12 grains); charred remains from F131 consisted of oat species (one small grain), cerealia indeterminate (12 grains), barley species (61 grains), and six-row barley (two twisted grains), charred grains recovered from F132 were identified as cerealia indeterminate (two grains), barley species (33 grains) and hulled barley (six grains) (ASUD; Appendix 7). Charred remains from F142 consisted of oat species (three small grains), cerealia indeterminate (three grains), barley species (four grains) and bread wheat (one grain) (ASUD; Appendix 7). Artefacts recovered from this ditch included a quartz flake (A008/025:132:1) and a flint fragment (A008/025:289:1) (Warren; Appendix 13).

Ditch J (F1025) F1025 (66m x 1.60m x 0.56m deep; Figures 8, 11 and 21; Plate 3) formed a sub-rounded area in the centre of Area 1a, enclosing a small flat plateau devoid of significant internal features. It contained 87 fills (F123, F125–F129, F136, F167–F170, F176–F178, F203–F211, F221– F222, F237, F285, F592–F608, F710–F12, F761–F763, F775–F777, F779–F784, F786, F793–F794, F797–F798, F801–F805, F807–F810, F1012–F1024, F1031). This ditch cut the western extent of Ditch A (F992), was cut by Ditch F (F900) and the outer edge of the eastern portion appeared to be cut by the north–south Ditch H (F905). A short narrow gully (Gully K: F920) ran parallel with a portion of the southern extent of Ditch J (F1025) and appeared to straighten out a kink in Ditch J. Charred remains were recovered from F123 and consisted of

5 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme oat species (seven small grains), barley species (seven grains), hulled barley (two grains) and a single dock nutlet (ASUD; Appendix 7). A flint distally trimmed flake (A008/025:761:1) was also recovered (Warren; Appendix 13).

Linear Gully K (F920) F920 (8m x 0.26m x 0.40m deep; Figure 8) was evident as a short narrow gully running to the north of the southerly section of Ditch J (F1025), and effectively straightened out a kink in the latter. It contained nine fills (F171–F174, F183, F199–F202) which consisted of moderate red/brown/yellow/grey clay that contained occasional small stones and iron panning. Occasional and small flecks of charcoal were recovered from F171–F173.

Linear Gully L (F358) F358 (2.9m x 0.5m x 0.16m; Figure 8) was located immediately south of the curvilinear Ditch B (F262) and north of the southern extent of Ditch J (F1025). It appeared to run into/be contemporary with F262 and was located immediately east of the postholes F294, F480, F485, F232 and F665. It was filled with moderately compact silty grey/orange clay that contained occasional flecks of charcoal and small stones (F287). A body/shoulder sherd of E- ware was also recovered from this feature (A008/025:287:1; Doyle; Appendix 9).

Curvilinear Ditch M (F993) F993 (12m x 1.14m x 0.68m deep; Figures 8 and 14; Plate 4) was situated in the extreme northeastern corner of the site, and may correspond to a sub-rounded feature noted on the 1st Edition Ordnance Survey map (Figure 3). It contained 47 fills (F295–F301, F344–F355, F359, F389–F396, F428–F431, F462–F475, F691). Charcoal, charred remains and uncharred remains were recovered from F345 (ASUD; Appendix 7). The charcoal was identified as hazel, ash, cherries, oak and willow/poplar with hazel being the most predominant. The charred remains consisted of black bindweed (four nutlets), oat species (752 large grains, 684 small grains), cerealia indeterminate (688 grains and one culm node), barley species (1328 grains, 27 rachis fragments), hulled barley (104 grains), six-row barley (16 twisted grains), bread wheat (32 rachis fragments), cf. bread wheat (1354 grains), wheat species (16 grains), bramble (four fruitstones), elder (one fruitstone), dock (14 nutlets) and the uncharred remains consisted of a single elder fruitstsone and dock (14 nutlets) (ASUD; Appendix 7). A sample of charred wheat grain from F345 was radiocarbon dated to AD 570–660 (Beta 247048; Oxcal: AD 565–666; Appendix 5). The linear gully Ditch N (F907) extended from the outer edge of F993 and may have been a contemporary feature. A stone fragment (A008/025:300:1) and a flint distally trimmed flake (A008/025:345:1; Warren; Appendix 13) were also recovered from this ditch.

6 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Linear Gully N (F907) F907 (12m x 0.75m x 0.24m; Figures 8 and 13) was located in northeast corner of Area 1a. It was orientated roughly east–west, and linked Curvilinear M with pit F388 in Ditch H (F905). It contained 25 fills (F302–F320, F322–F323, F848–F851) and generally consisted of moderate light brown/orange/grey clay that contained inclusions of small stones, pebbles and iron panning.

Curvilinear Gully P (F994) F994 (5.40m x 0.56m x 0.40m; Figures 8 and 13) was located along the northern extent of Area 1a. It curved away west and north from the western end of pits F995 and F1006 (possible Kiln 5). It contained 24 fills (F490–F500, F529–F536, F842, F844–F846, F1047) and generally consisted of moderately compact brown/yellow/orange/grey silty clay that contained occasional small stones. Charred remains were recovered from F496 and were identified as oat species (three small grains), cerealia indeterminate (eight grains) and cf. bread wheat (four grains) (ASUD; Appendix 7).

Ditch Q (F904) This feature (F904; 24m x 1.10m x 0.45m; Figures 8 and 15) was located in the eastern extent of Area 1a and ran parallel and to the south of Ditch F (F900) and east of Ditch H (F905). It contained 49 fills (F585–F591, F611–F643, F739, F752–F759) that generally consisted of moderately compact yellow/orange/grey/brown silty clay that contained occasional inclusions of small stones and iron panning. A piece of flint debitage (A008/025:757:1; Warren; Appendix 13) was also recovered.

Curvilinear Gully T (F1033) This feature was located in northwestern corner of the site (17m x 0.70m x 0.27m; Figure 8). It extended from the northern limits of excavation in a southerly direction at which point it was cut by Ditch F (F900) and re-emerged south of F900 and extended in an easterly direction towards Ditch J (F1025). The relationship between F1033 and F1025 was not clearly defined and it is possible that they were contemporary. Six fills were identified (F901–F903 and F1028–F1030) and generally consisted of a moderately compact brown/grey silty clay that contained occasional decayed stones, pebbles and flecks of charcoal.

Gully 119 The gully F119 (7.5m x 0.57m x 0.24m) was located in southern extent of Area 1a, east of Curvilinear D (F919). It was filled with F17–F19, F562 and F563 and generally consisted of a grey/brown yellow silty clay with inclusions of iron panning. Flecks of charcoal were

7 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme recovered from F17–F19. The charcaol from F19 was identified as cherries and charred remains from this fill consisted of oat species (large: seven grains and small: 19 grains), cerealia indeterminate (20 grains), barley species (174 grains), hulled barley (four grains), six- row barley (twisted grain) and six-row hulled barley (two twisted grains) and a single redshank nutlet (ASUD; Appendix 7).

2.1.1.2 Post row – possible palisade? A northwest–southeast-orientated row of 12 postholes of various sizes ran between the southern side of Curvilinear B (F262) as far south as Ditch J (F1025) and re-emerged the far side of Ditch J (F1025) and extended upslope for a distance of approximately 16m towards the southeastern extent of Area 1a (Figure 8; Plate 6). It comprised F117 (0.26m diameter x 0.17m depth), F118 (0.27m diameter x 0.17m depth), F198 (0.34m x 0.32m x 0.34m depth; Figure 17), F232 (0.25m diameter x 0.23m depth; Figure 15), F294 (0.25m diameter x 0.39m depth), F480 (0.68m diameter x 0.48m depth; Figure 15), F485 (0.30m diameter x 0.42m depth; Figure 15), F553 (0.34m x 0.30m x 0.29m; Figure 17), F557 (0.27m x 0.25m x 0.29m; Figure 17), F561 (0.54m x 0.49m x 0.39m; Figure 17), F575 (0.43m x 0.40m x 0.18m; Figure 17), and F665 (0.30m diameter x 0.24m depth; Figure 15). Five (F294, F480, F485, F232, F665) of these features were located north of Ditch J (F1035) and seven (F118, F575, F117, F198, F553, F557, F561) were located southeast of Ditch J (F1025). The fill of these postholes generally consisted of a loose–moderately compact silty clay that varied in colour from brown/grey/orange/blue with occasional inclusions of charcoal, burnt stone and burnt clay (F94 (of F117), F20 (of F118), F196 and F197 (of F198), F231 (of F232), F290–F293 (of F294), F 446, F476–F478 (of F480), F481–F484 (of F485), F549–F550 (of F553), F554– F556 (of F557), F558–F560 (of F561), F569–F574 (of F575) and F662–F664 (of F665)). Charcoal recovered from the fill (F197) of F198 was identified as oak and charred remains from the fill (F555) of F557 were identified as barley species (six grains) and hulled barley (three grains) (ASUD; Appendix 7). The postholes were not evenly spaced, nor in a continuous line, and may not all be contemporary. It is thought that they represent a screen or fence-like structure/palisade.

2.1.1.3 Structure A small circular hut-type structure was situated towards the northeastern corner of the site, SSE of the Linear Gully N (F907) and north of Ditch F (F900; Figure 8; Plate 5). It was approximately 2.5m in diameter and comprised eight postholes (F363: 0.32m diameter x 0.11m depth; F369: 0.19m diameter x 0.06m depth; F371: 0.18m diameter x 0.11m depth; F372: 0.30m diameter x 0.09m depth; F373: 0.36m diameter x 0.12m depth; F374: 0.31m diameter x 0.17m depth; F376: 0.37m x 0.20m x 0.05m and F378: 0.34m x 0.20m x 0.10m;

8 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Figure 10). Two gaps were evident: one at the northeastern and southwestern side, but no obvious entrance features. The fill of each posthole was quite consistent and generally consisted of a moderately compact sandy/silty clay that varied in colour from grey/brown/red and blue (F362 (of F363), F368 (of F369), F370 (of F371), F360–F361 (of F372), F364–F365 (of F373), F366–F367 (of F374), F375 (of F376) and F377 (of F378)). With the exception of F375 (of F376) and F377 (of F378) occasional small flecks of charcoal were recovered from each of the aforementioned fills. Iron panning was noted in F368 (of F369), F370 (of F371), F375 (of F376) and F377 (of F378).

2.1.1.4 Kilns Three kilns (F548: Kiln 1, F883: Kiln 2 and F921: Kiln 3) and a possible fourth (F922: Kiln 4) and fifth (F1006: Kiln 5) were noted in Area 1a. The three kilns were figure-of-eight in shape (F548, F883, F921) and two of these (F548, F883) had narrow ‘tails’ extending from one end, leading downslope, possibly to assist with the regulation of draught (Figure 8). The third kiln (F921) had no tail, but was surrounded on its south and east sides by a curvilinear gully (Curvilinear D: F919) which may have contained a fence etc and functioned as a wind break. F922 and F1006 were located in close proximity to each other in the northern extent of Area 1a. These features were irregular in shape and possibly functioned as kilns.

Kiln 1 (F548: 2.20m x 1.36m x 0.70m deep; Figure 14; Plate 7) was an elongated figure-of- eight shape, orientated NNW–SSE, close to the northernmost edge of the excavation area. A narrow sinuous tail/flue extended from its northern end, and exited into a shallow depression at the northern extent of the excavation area. Divided between the two kiln bowls and the tail/flue were 23 deposits (F379–F387, F447–F460) and generally consisted of a silty clay that varied in colour from brown/orange and grey and contained inclusions of small stones. Flecks of charcoal was noted in F381, F384–F387, F447, F449, F451–F453, F455–F460 and fragments of burnt clay was noted in F447. A significant quantity of charcoal and charred remains were recovered from F387 (ASUD; Appendix 7). The charcoal was identified as alder, hazel, ash and cherries with alder being the most predominant and the charred remains consisted of corn marigold (one achene), oat species (26 large grains and 43 small grains), cerealia indeterminate (79 grains and one culm node), barley species (144 grains, 16 rachis fragments), hulled barley (85 grains), six-row hulled barley (two twisted grains), bread wheat (25 rachis fragments), cf. bread wheat (198 grains) and a single cleavers seed. A sample of charred wheat grain recovered from F387 was radiocarbon dated to AD 610–680 (Beta 247049; Oxcal: AD 580–765; Appendix 5).

9 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Kiln 2 (F883: 3.00m x 2.40m x 0.55m deep; Figure 16; Plates 8–9) was an asymmetrical figure-of-eight shape, orientated northeast–southwest, with a narrow curvilinear flue/tail emanating from its northern end. It was located immediately south of Ditch J (F1025). The flue/tail was 3.00m in overall length, and curved northwards into Ditch J (F1025). Interestingly, the base of the tail/flue of Kilns 1 (F548) and 2 (F883) sloped contrary to that of the natural ground surface, staying fairly level throughout. The kiln contained nine fills (F609, F686–F690, F838–F840), which generally consisted of a silty clay that varied in colour from black/brown, grey, yellow and orange and contained inclusions of small stones and flecks of charcoal. Charcoal from F609 was identified as alder, hazel, ash and cherries and charcoal from F687 was identified as ash (ASUD; Appendix 7). Charred remains were also recovered from F609, F687, F838 and F840 (ibid). The charred remains from F609 consisted of black bindweed (four nutlets), oat species (232 large grains and 504 small grains), cerealia indeterminate (224 grains), barley species (2450 grains, one rachis fragment), hulled barley (64 grains) six-row hulled barley (48 twisted grains), cf. bread wheat (680 grains) and four hemp nettle nutlets. A sample of charred barley grain from this context was radiocarbon dated to AD 570–660 (Beta 247050; Oxcal: AD 565–666; Appendix 5). Charred remains from F687 consisted of oat species (eight small grains), cerealia indeterminate (three grains), barley species (82 grains, one rachis fragment), hulled barley (four grains), six-row barley (two twisted grains) and wheat species (four grains, the charred remains from F838 were identified as cerealia indeterminate (one grain) and barley species (18 grains) and barley species (70 grains) and cf. bread wheat (58 grains) were recovered from F840 (ASUD; Appendix 7). A quartz core (A008/025:688:1) and a piece of flint debitage (A008/025:838:1) were also recovered from this kiln (Warren; Appendix 13).

Kiln 3 (F921: 2.40m x 0.84m x 0.32m; Figure 16; Plate 10) was a classic figure-of-eight shape in plan and orientated east–west. It was protected to the south and east by a curvilinear gully F919 (Curvilinear D; Figures 8 and 17). This seems to have served to prevent water ingress from upslope or may have functioned as a windbreak. The kiln contained seven fills (F644–F650) and generally consisted of a moderately compact silty clay that varied in colour from a light brown/grey silty clay and contained inclusions of small stones. Small quantities of charcoal were recovered F644–F646 and F649. A single small grain of oat and four barley grains were recovered from F644 and the charcoal from F646 was identified as hazel (ASUD; Appendix 7).

The possible Kiln 4 (F922: 4.40m x 1.20m x 0.35m deep) was located west of F1006 (possible Kiln 5), north of Ditch A (F992) and west of the northern extent of Ditch J (F1025). It was an irregular elongated feature orientated northeast–southwest, with an oval feature at

10 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme the southwestern end. It contained 10 fills (F610, F693–F701), which generally consisted of a moderately compact orange/grey silty clay with areas of grey and black silt. Charcoal flecks (F610, F696, F697 and F699–F701) were contained within six fills.

The possible Kiln 5 (F1006: 3.20m x 1.69m x 0.73m) was noted during the excavation of a curvilinear gully (Ditch P: F994) at the northern end of the excavation area, which appears to have all but destroyed traces of a kiln-like feature. Thirty five fills were contained within this feature (F815–F836, F852–F855 and F862–F869) and generally consisted of a moderately compact–compact light/dark brown/grey/orange clay that contained inclusions of stones (some decayed), pebbles and iron panning. Flecks of charcoal were noted on F820, F823, F825, F826, F828, F841, F842, F855, F863–F865, F867, and F868.

2.1.1.5 Pits A number of pit features were also identified within Area 1a (F157: 1.04m x 0.65m x 0.38m; F254: 1.36m x 0.47m x 0.28m; F258: 0.42m x 0.28m x 0.11m, F284: 1.90m x 1.64m x 0.62n, F388: 1.15m x 1.02m x 0.46m; F537; diameter 1.04m x 0.43m; F538: diameter 0.53m x 0.16m; F539: diameter 1.4m x 0.19m; F540, diameter 1.38m x 0.24m; F679: 0.83m x 0.60m x 0.12m, F713: diameter 0.98m x 0.23m, F714: diameter 0.50m x 0.20m, F750: 2.50m x 1.70m x 0.55m; F760: 0.62m x 0.40m x 0.30m, F778:1.70m x 0.60m x 0.22m; F906: 2.60m x 1.60m x 0.28m; F962: 0.50m x 0.33m x 0.13m, F996; 1.65m x 0.75m x 0.25m; F997: 1.13m x 0.82m x 0.14m and F998: 1.15m x 0.58m x 0.12m). The pits were filled with silty clays that varied in colour and contained inclusions of small stones/pebbles: F154–F156 (of F157), F184–F195 (of F254), F255–F257 (of F258), F263–F271 and F281–F283 (of F284), F327– F329 (of F388), F501 and F502 (of F537), F504 (of F538), F503 (of F539), F521–F524 (of F540), F652, F677, F678 (of F679), F708 and F709 (of F713), F707 (of F714), F717, F748 (of F750), F543–F547 (of F760), F179–F182 (of F778), F787–F792, F795–F796, F800 (of F906), F932 (of F962), F243, F244 and F246 (of F996), F884, F1026, F1027 (of F997) and F956, F969–F971 (F998). Charcoal was recovered from 15 of these pits (F157 (fill F155), F254 (fill F192), F258 (fills F255 and F256), F284 (fills F263–F269 and F281–F283), F388 (fill F329), F537 (fill F502), F540 (fill F521), F679 (fills F652, F677), F713 (fill F708), F750 (fills F717, F748), F760 (fills F543–F545), F778 (fills F179–F182), F962 (fill F932), F997 (fills F884, F1026, F1027), F998 (fill F970)). Charcoal from three of the pits were identified to species (ASUD; Appendix 7): charcoal from F679 (fill F677) was identified as hazel and cherries with hazel being the most predominant; charcoal from F760 (fill F545) was identified as hazel and willow/poplar with slightly higher quantities of the latter species recorded and oak charcoal was recovered from F998 (fill F971)

11 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Charred remains were also recovered from three of the aforementioned pits (F388, F679 and F998). Oat species (one small grain), cerealia indeterminate (two grains) and barley species (10 grains) were recovered from a single fill (F328) in F388. Charred remains were recovered from three fills (F652, F677 and F678) in F679: a single grain of barley species was recovered from F652, a single grain of oat species, a single grain of cerealia indeterminate, barley species (70 grains), hulled barley (15 grains), wheat species (three grains) and goosefoot (two seeds) were recovered from F677 and cerealia indeterminate (two grains), barley species (two grains) and six-row barley (two twisted grains) were recovered from F678 (ASUD; Appendix 7). The charred remains from F998 were recovered from all layers (F956, F969, F970 and F971). The remains from F956 consisted of black bindweed (one nutlet), oat species (22 large grains and 17 small grains), cerealia indeterminate (two grains), barley species (89 grains, one rachis fragment), hulled barley (three grains) and dock (two nutlets) and the remains from F969 were identified as cultivated oats (one floret base), oat species (50 large grains and 70 small grains), cerealia indeterminate (20 grains), barley species (264 grains, six rachis fragments), hulled barley (74 grains), six-row barley (10 twisted grains), redshank (one nutlet) and dock (eight nutlets) (ASUD; Appendix 7). Charred remains from F970 were identified as black bindweed (two nutlets), oat species (47 large grains and 49 small grains), barley species (95 grains, one rachis fragment), hulled barley (35 grains), six-row barley (seven twisted grains), redshank (one nutlet), ribwort plantain (one nutlet), cabbage family (one seed) and dock (one nutlet) and the charred remains from F971 were identified as oat species (seven small grains), barley species (26 grains) and hulled barley (two grains). Animal bone from also recovered from F962 (fill F932), and burnt bone from F679 (fill F677 and F678) and F962 (fill F932). Burnt stone was recovered from F157 (fill F154 and F155) and burnt clay was recovered from F679 (fill F678) and F998 (fill F971). A piece of flint debitage (A008/025:652:1) was recovered from the fill (F652) of the pit F679.

2.1.2 Area 1b Area 1b was situated to the southwest of Area 1a, and was predominated by agricultural features in the form of land drains and plough furrows. These were found to contain post- medieval artefacts such as bottle glass, pottery, and clay-pipe fragments, and therefore not deemed to be of archaeological significance. Each feature was investigated however, if not fully-excavated.

The only notable feature was pit F679 (0.83m x 0.60m x 0.12m; Figure 14) which contained three fills (F652 & F677–F678). All three fills contained charcoal flecks and burnt bone, and the middle fill F652 contained a flint flake (A008/025:652:1; Warren; Appendix 13). Basal fill F678 was rich in burnt clay, and the sides of the cut exhibited evidence for burning in situ.

12 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Charred remains were also recovered: a single grain of barley species was recovered from F652, oat species (one grain), cerealia indeterminate (one grain), barley species (70 grains), hulled barley (15 grains), wheat species (two grains) and two goose foot seeds were recovered from F677 and cerealia indeterminate (two grains), barley species (two grains) and six-row barley (two twisted grains) were recovered from F678 (ASUD; Appendix 13).

2.1.3 Area 2a Area 2a was situated to the south and southeast of Area 1, a short distance to the north of Castletown Tara 2 (A008/026) (Figure 7). A large number of features investigated were found to be non-archaeological, and the result of burnt-out hedgerow and tree-clearance. Each feature was investigated however, if not fully-excavated.

2.1.3.1 Hearth The only notable features were possible hearth F861 (1.60m x 1.10m x 0.26m) and pit F968 (1.00m x 0.60m x 0.19m; Figure 18) (Figure 9). F861 was an asymmetrical figure-of-eight shape hearth/kiln, orientated east–west, and contained five fills (F856–F860), three of which contained charcoal flecks (Figure 18). The base and sides of the feature displayed evidence for burning in situ particularly in the larger, deeper bowl at the western end.

2.1.3.2 Pit F968 (1.00m x 0.60m x 0.19m; Figure 18) was an northwest–southeast-orientated oval feature containing a single fill (F955), which was a mid-orangey-brown, silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks and burnt clay inclusions, and evidence of burning in situ.

2.1.4 Area 2b Area 2b was situated upslope and to the south of Area 1, against the western fence line, and comprised 18 cremation pits (F961–F964, F973–F975, F977–F980 & F982–F988) and a possible 19th (F981) (Figures 7, 9, 19, and 20; Plate 12). An additional pit (F967), a possible cut (F966) and three postholes (F990, F1038, F1040) were also contained within this area.

2.1.4.1 Cremation pits The cremation pits were contained within two separate clusters: the first was located adjacent to the southwestern limit of excavation and contained F973–F975 and F977–F988 and the second was located a short distance to the ESE and contained F961–F964. The cremation pits ranged in size from 0.50m x 0.47m x 0.12m (F961) to 0.16m x 0.15m x 0.07m (F977), and were either sub-circular or oval in plan. Eleven pits (F961–F964, F974–F975, F977, & F984– F987; Figure 19) had a sloping base, predominantly towards the southeast and east, with some sloping as much as 45°. The cremation pits were filled with dark brown to dark grey or black

13 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme sandy silty deposits containing moderate–frequent charcoal flecks and occasional–moderate small stones (F931 (of F961), F932 (of F962), F933 (of F963), F929 (of F964), F938 (of F973), F948 (of F974), F939 (of F975), F936 (of F977), F940 (of F978), F950 (of F979), F937 (of F980), F934 (of F982), F935 (of F983), F941 (of F984), F949 (of F985), F943 (of F986), F947 (of F987), F942 (of F988) and F957 (of F981)).

Charcoal and charred remains were recovered from 14 of the identified cremation pits (F961– F964, F973, F975, F978–F980, F982–F985 and F987) and were identified to species (ASUD; Appendix 7). Charcoal from the fill (F931) of F961 was identified as hazel, oak, maloideae, ivy and alder with hazel being the most predominant; charred remains were identified as grains of oat species (three large and two small), cerealia indeterminate (seven grains), pea (two), bread wheat (eight grains), hazelnut shell fragments (12), crab apple (one endocarp fragment) and a single thorn from the rose family (ASUD; Appendix 7). Uncharred remains consisted of a buttercup achene. This cremation pit also contained cremated bone fragments and possible human bone, including two adjoining fragments of probable radial head (part of the elbow joint) and the size was consistent with an adult/adolescent and fragments of long bone were also identified (ASUD; Appendix 7). A single piece of flint debitage (A008/025:931:1) was recovered from the fill (F931) of this pit (Warren; Appendix 13).

Charcoal from the fill (F932) of F962 was identified as oak, alder, hazel, maloideae and willow/poplar with oak being the most predominant; charred remains were identified as cerealia indeterminate (one grain), wheat species (one grain), hazelnut shell fragments (three), crab apples (six endocarp fragments and one pip) and uncharred remains consisted of a common nettle achene (ASUD; Appendix 7). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable (ASUD; Appendix 7). Flint debitage (A008/025:932:1, A008/025:932:3) and a flint chip (A008/025:932:2) were recovered from the fill (F932) of F962 (Warren; Appendix 13).

Charcoal from the fill (F933) of F963 was identified as oak, hazel, and maloideae with oak being the most predominant; charred remains were identified as scentless mayweed (one achene), cerealia indeterminate (eight grains), emmer wheat (nine grains, two glume base, one spikelet fork), hazelnut shell fragments (10), crab apple (214 endocarp fragments, 22 pips, 25 pip fragments and two stalks) and uncharred remains consisted of a single fat-hen seed, an elder fruitstone and a buttercup achene (ASUD; Appendix 7). A sample of charred crab apple from F933 was radiocarbon dated to 2900–2690 BC (Beta 247051; Oxcal: 2909–2674 BC; Appendix 5). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable (ASUD; Appendix 7). Flint debitage (A008/025:933:1, A008/025:933:3, A008/025:933:5–7,

14 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

A008/025:933:9) one of which was an invasively retouched form (A009/025:933:4), a flint convex scraper (A008/025:933:2), and a flint chip (A008/025:933:8) were recovered from F963 (Warren; Appendix 13).

Hazel and oak charcoal and three hazelnut shell fragments were recovered from the fill (F929) of the pit F964 (ASUD; Appendix 7). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable (ASUD; Appendix 7). A single piece of flint debitage (A008/025:929:1) was recovered from the fill (F929) (Warren; Appendix 13).

Oak, hazel and alder charcoal were recovered from the fill (F938) of F973 and charred remains from this context consisted of cerealia indeterminate (20 grains), barley species (six grains), bread wheat (two grains), emmer wheat (four grains), wheat species (three grains) and hazelnut shell fragments (10) (ASUD; Appendix 7). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable along with some cremated animal bone (ASUD; Appendix 7). Three pieces of flint debitage (A008/025:938:1–3), two of which possibly represented retouching flakes (A008/025:938:1–2), a flint convex scraper (A008/025:938:4) and a flint chip (A008/025:938:5) were recovered from F973 (Warren; Appendix 13).

The charcoal from the fill (F939) of F975 was identified as hazel, maloideae, oak, elder and elm with hazel being the most predominant and the charred remains were identified as cerealia indeterminate (two grains), barley species (one), naked barley (one grain), hazelnut shell fragments (nine), crab apple (213 endocarp fragments, 36 pips and eight pip fragments) and the uncharred remains consisted of a single fat-hen seed (ASUD; Appendix 7). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable (ASUD; Appendix 7). A flint blade with a retouched edge (A008/025:939:1), a flint convex scraper (A008/025:939:2), flint debitage (possible rejuvenation piece: A008/025:939:3) and flint debris (A008/025:939:4) were recovered from F975 (Warren; Appendix 13).

Hazel, maloideae and oak charcoal were recovered from the fill (F940) of F978 with almost equal amounts of hazel and oak charcoal noted. Charred remains from this fill consisted of scentless mayweed (two achene), cerealia indeterminate (one grain), barley species (two grains) and wheat species (two grains), hazelnut shell fragments (six) and crab apple (27 endocarp fragments and one pip) and uncharred remains consisted of a fat-hen seed and common nettle (two achenes) (ASUD; Appendix 7). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable (ASUD; Appendix 7). Flint debitage (A008/025:940:6), two of which consisted of indent retouched fragments (A008/025:940:1–2)

15 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme and one possible retouching flake (A008/025:940:5), a flint convex scraper (A008/025:940:3) and flint debris (A008/025:940:4) were recovered from F978 (Warren; Appendix 13).

The charcoal from the fill (F950) of F979 was identified as alder, hazel, oak and elm with hazel being the most predominant and the charred remains were identified as cerealia indeterminate (one grain), barley species (two grains), hazel nutshell fragments (two) and crab apple (12 endocarp fragmenst) (ASUD; Appendix 7). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable (ASUD; Appendix 7). Finally, two pieces of flint debitage (A008/025:950:1-2) were recovered from F979 (Warren; Appendix 13).

Oak, hazel, maloideae, alder and cherry charcoal was recovered from the fill (F937) of F980 with oak being the most predominant. Charred remains from this fill consisted of scentless mayweed (one achene), oat species (one small grain), cerealia indeterminate (21 grains), bread wheat (two grains), emmer wheat (144 grains, five glume base), ribwort plantain (one seed), hazelnut shell fragments (14) and crab apple (118 endocarp fragments, one stalk and one pip) (ASUD; Appendix 7). No cremated bone was identified within this pit.

Charcoal from the fill (F934) of F982 was identified as oak, hazel and alder with oak being the most predominant, charred remains were identified as hazelnut shell fragments (seven), crab apple (one endocarp fragment) and uncharred remains were identified as a single goosefoot seed (ASUD; Appendix 7). No cremated bone was identified within this pit.

Oak, hazel, alder and elm charcoal was recovered from the fill (F935) of F983 with oak being the most predominant. Charred remains were also recovered from this fill and consisted of emmer wheat (three grains), hazelnut shell fragments (eight) and crab apple (142 endocarp fragments and three pips) and uncharred remains consisted of a single fumitory seed (ASUD; Appendix 7). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable (ASUD; Appendix 7). Flint debitage (A008/025:935:1–4, A008/025:935:6, A008/025:935:8), one of which was burnt (A008/025:935:1) and three of which may represent possible retouching flakes (A008/025:935:4, A008/025:9356, A008/025:9358) and two flint chips (A008/025:5, A008/025:7) were recovered from F983 (Warren; Appendix 13).

The charcoal recovered from the fill (F941) of F984 was identified as alder, hazel, maloideae, oak and willow/poplar with oak being the most predominant. Charred remains were also recovered from this fill and were identified as cerealia indeterminate (15 grains), barley species (one grain), naked barley (one grain), wheat species (one grain), hazelnut shell fragments (five), crab apple (105 endocarp fragments and four pips) and the uncharred

16 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme remains consisted of a single buttercup achene (ASUD; Appendix 7). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable (ASUD; Appendix 7). A single piece of flint debitage which was a possible retouching flake (A008/025:941:1) was recovered from F984 (Warren; Appendix 13).

Alder, hazel, ash, maloideae and oak charcoal were recovered from the fill (F949) of F985 with alder being the most predominant and charred remains consisted of cerealia indeterminate (one grain), barley species (one grain), wheat species (one grain), hazelnut shell fragmenst (seven) and crab apple (11 endocarp fragments) (ASUD; Appendix 7). No cremated bone was identified within this pit. Chert debitage (A008/025:949:1), flint debitage including an indent retouched fragment (A008/025:949:1), a possible retouching flake with retouched edges (A008/025:949:4) and two possible retouching flakes (A008/025:949:5–6), a flint convex scraper (A008/025:949:3) and a piece of flint debris (A008/025:949:7) and two flint chips (A008/025:949:8–9) were recovered from F985 (Warren; Appendix 13).

Charcoal from the fill (F947) of F987 was identified as alder, hazel, maloideae and oak with oak being the most predominant and charred remains were identified as cerealia indeterminate (two grains), barley species (nine grains), hulled barley (one grain), wheat species (three grains), hazelnut shell fragments (11), crab apple (312 endocarp fragments and 10 pips), one elder fruitstone and uncharred remains consisted of black bindweed (one nutlet), fumitory (one seed), sedges (one trigonous nutlet) and a buttercup achene (ASUD; Appendix 7). This cremation pit also contained cremated bone which was unidentifiable (ASUD; Appendix 7). Flint debitage (A008:025:947:1, A008:025:947:4, A008:025:947:8), a flint retouching flake (A008/025:947:2), flint debris (A008/025:947:3, A008/025:947:6), chert debitage (A008/025:947:5) and a flint scraper – a rejuvenation flake – (A008/025:947:7) were recovered from F987 (Warren; Appendix 13).

Three pieces of burnt flint debitage (A008/025:937:1, A008/025:937:2, A008/025:937:6), a flint convex scraper (A008/025:937:3) and two pieces of unburnt flint debitage (A008/025:937:4–5) were recovered from F937 (Warren; Appendix 13).

2.1.4.2 Postholes The three postholes (F990: 0.20m x 0.20m x 0.16m; F1038: 0.40m x 0.37m x 0.24m; and F1040: 0.35m x 0.33m x 0.35m) were located a short distance north of the largest cremation pit cluster (contained F973–F975, F977–F979 and F981–F988). F990 was filled with a moderate, light-brown, mottled, orange clay with charcoal flecks and burnt clay (F989) and a loose brown/grey silty clay flecked with charcoal (F1041). F1038 was filled with a moderate,

17 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme light-brown, silty clay with occasional charcoal (F991) and a moderate, mottled, orange/brown clay with frequent charcoal and stone (F1042). F1040 was filled with F1039, F1043 and F1044 with consisted of a brown/grey silty caly with frequent charcoal and stone, a moderate, light-brown, silty clay and compact, light-brown, silty clay, respectively. The precise function of these postholes is unclear but they were located in close proximity to each other in a line that curved from northwest–southwest.

2.1.4.3 Pits The pit F967 (0.32m x 0.32m x 0.17m) and possible cut/pit F966 (0.36m x 0.30m x 0.08m) were located in between the two cremation pit clusters and southeast of the aforementioned postholes. F967 was filled with a moderate, brown, silty sandy silt with occassional charcoal and stone (F965) and F966 was filled with a moderate brown/grey silty clay with occassioanl small stones and iron panning (F212) and a compact red silty clay with moderate charcoal and stone (F951). The exact function of these features was not clear.

2.2 Finds Lithics were the predominant artefact type recovered from this site and were recovered from Area 1a and Area 2b. Two ‘coarse’ stone tools and 106 flaked stone objects that incorporated cores, debris and debitage were recovered and all of the pieces were analysed and identified by Graeme Warren (Appendix 13). The two coarse stone tools included a shale whetstone (A008/025:59:1) from the ditch F262 (Curvilinear B). This feature was dated to the early medieval period (AD 520–610; Beta 247046; Oxcal: AD 426–601; Appendix 5). The second coarse stone object (A008/025:144:1) was recovered from a spread in Area 1a and was made of (?)quartzite. Its exact function was not clear; it may have formed part of a quern but is best described as an unclassified object.

Primary technology within the site was dominated by debitage and was characterised by regular flakes, with small numbers of blades and irregular flakes and a small number of chips were also recorded (Warren; Appendix 13). A single, poor, quartz possible core (A008/025:688:1) was also present. According to Warren the absence of cores is in keeping with the general absence of irregular flakes and chips and would suggest that little stone tool production took place on the site. He has concluded that many of the smaller flakes (especially from Area 2b) are retouching/rejuvenation pieces associated with maintenance and/or production of scrapers (ibid.).

A total of 33 chipped stone artefacts, the majority of which were of flint (30) were also recovered (Warren; Appendix 13). Five definite (A008/025:4:3, A008/025:12:12,

18 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

A008/025:4:16, A008/025:95:1, A008/025:446:1) and one possible butt-trimmed forms (A008/025:4:4) and two distally trimmed pieces (A008/025:345:1 and A008/025:761:1) were identified. A008/025:12:16 is a formal ‘Bann Flake’ (recovered from hillwash F12), another was quite similar (A008/025:095:1: recovered from Ditch F: F900), and A008/025:12:12 is possibly tanged. A008/025:345:1 and A008/025:761:1 were characterised by very light distal trimming on leaf shaped flakes and were recovered from the ditches F993 (Curvilinear M) and F1025 (Ditch J), respectively. Three flint projective points were recovered from hillwash (F12) and included two leaf-shaped arrowheads (A008/025:12:1 and A008/025:12:6) and a hollow-based arrowhead (A008/025:12:18). A008/025:12:1 was recently damaged while A008/025:12:16 was also broken, although the break was ancient. Seven convex scrapers (A008/025:252:1, A008/025:933:2, A008/025:937:3, A008/025:938:4, A008/025:939:2, A008/025:940:3, A008/025:949:3) and one possible rejuvenation scraper (A008/025:947:7) were also recovered. Five were recovered from cremation pits in Area 2b (A008/025:933:2, A008/025:938:4, A008/025:939:2, A008/025:940:3, A008/025:949:3), one (A008/025:937:3) from a posthole (F980) located in close proximity to the cremation pits and one (A008/025:252:1) from Ditch F (F900), located a significant distance away from the cremation pits in Area 1a. One of these artefacts (A008/025:933:2) was recovered from a pit that was radiocarbon dated to the late Neolithic period (2900–2690 BC; Beta 247051; Oxcal: 2909–2674 BC; Appendix 5). A number of additional retouched artefacts were also recovered and consisted of three edge retouched blades (A008/025:12:19, A008/025:12:1920 from hillwash; and A008/025:939:1 from cremation pit F975), an informal awl (A008/025:12:11), an invasively retouched form (A008/025:933:4 from cremation pit F963), an edge retouched flake (A008/025:949:4 from cremation pit F985) and a notched form (A008/025:12:4).

Warren (Appendix 13) has suggested that all the lithics recovered from Area 1a were redeposited and as a result interpretation is difficult. Radiocarbon dates obtained from features within this section of the site would suggest it was occupied and utilised from the fifth–eighth centuries AD (Beta 247046–247050; Appendix 5). The lithic artefacts from this section of the site hare mostly likely to be prehistoric in date (based on typology and form). He has, however, suggested three archaeological phases of activity based on the stone tool assemblage (all of which were recovered from hillwash F12). The first phase of activity occurred in the late Mesolithic: eight artefacts could be assigned to this period based on typology, including the Bann flake (A008/025:12:16) and the butt trimmed form (A008/025:12:12), although up to 10–15 pieces could be assigned to this period. He has pointed out that the diversity of raw materials, their consistent large size and the fact that the assemblage is dominated by products as opposed to cores, are all in keeping with traditions of the later Mesolithic period. Early Neolithic activity was identified in the form of two leaf-

19 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme shaped arrow heads (A008/025:12:1 and A008/025:12:6). These two items are not similar in form and so may represent two separate phases of usage but together represent continuity from the late Mesolithic into the early Neolithic period. Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age activity was the final phase identified within this area. A single hollow-based arrowhead (A008/025:12:18) was dated to this period.

The lithic artefacts from Area 2b were associated with 17 cremation pits and it is possible that they represented grave good deposits. Some of the lithics recovered from these pits were burnt which may suggest that they were burnt as part of the cremation process/collected when collecting the cremated remains. The majority of lithics recovered in association with these features included scrapers (which appear to have been re-sharpened before deposition), large blades and regular flakes. As mentioned previously, a late Neolithic date (2900–2690 BC; Beta 247051; Oxcal: 2909–2674 BC; Appendix 5) was recovered from one of the cremation pit (F9630 in Area 2b). Debitage, including flakes, a blade, and an invasively retouched from and a convex scraper were recovered from this feature.

Six sherds of pottery were also recovered. They were identified as two body sherds (A008/025:4:1 and A008/025:12:2) of local medieval pottery, two body sherds (A008/025:12:8–9) of local fine ware (Doyle; Appendix 8) and two body sherds (A008/025:287:1 and A008/025:248:1) of imported E-ware (Doyle; Appendix 9). The local pottery was not recovered from secure stratigraphic contexts, but from the topsoil (F4) and hillwash (F12). The local medieval pottery represented a MNR of two jars/jugs and similar pottery was recovered from other sites along this scheme including Castlefarm 1, Garretstown 2 and Dunboyne 4 (also identified by Ian Doyle). The local fine ware also represented a MNR of two jars/jugs. Both pottery types were dated from the 13th–14th centuries AD. The E-ware (A008/025:287:1 and A008/025:248:1) was recovered from two separate ditch features – F358 (Gully L) and F900 (Ditch F), respectively – and represented single vessels. The origins of E-ware are not clear but it most likely originates from western Gaul (Doyle; Appendix 9). E-ware / possible e-ware was also recovered from Roestown 2 (A008/002) and Collierstown 1 (A008/015), which were also located along this scheme.

Other finds include a horseshoe fragment (A008/025:12:14) from hillwash (F12), a possible quernstone fragment (A008/025:144:1) from a spread (F144), a possible piece of leather (A008/025:291:1) from the posthole F294, a small sample of slag, from fill (F138) of ditch F905 and a possible wooden peg from lower fill (F88) of ditch F262. The possible leather was analysed by John Nicoll who described it as ‘possibly a fragment of de-laminated leather but could equally be remnant of fabric/flake of corroded metal’ (Appendix 10). The slag was

20 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme described by Wallace as ‘two small flattish fragments of iron slag with apparent high iron content’ (Appendix 11) who concluded that the presences of these pieces within the site were either incidental or indicative of small-scale smithing or artefact repair. The possible peg was identified as oak but was in a poor state of degradation, was charred and displayed no evidence of woodworking (O’Carroll; Appendix 12).

3 DISCUSSION 3.1 Form and function This site at Castletown Tara 1 was located on the southern edge of the floodplain of the River Skane and immediately west of the present N3 Road. The site itself was divided into four separate areas for the purpose of the excavation: Area 1a, Area 1b, Area 2a and Area 2b. The largest and most substantial area contained the entire northeastern extent of the site and was labelled Area 1a. Numerous ditches, gullies, linear features, three kilns, two possible kilns, a possible structure, a possible palisade of posts and isolated scattered pits and postholes were located here. Area 1b was situated southwest of Area 1a and was dominated by agricultural activity in the form of land drains and plough furrows. The only notable feature within this area was a single pit that contained charcoal burnt bone and a piece of flint. The date of this feature is not known. Area 2a was located to the south and southwest of Area 1. Two features of archaeological significance were identified and consisted of the remains of a possible hearth and a single pit. Charcoal flecks and burnt clay were recovered from both features. The date of these features is also unknown. The final area, Area 2b was located upslope and to the south of Area 1 and Area 2a and was located adjacent to the southern boundary of the site, approximately 60m south of Area 1 and contained the remains of 18 cremation pits, one possible cremation pit, three postholes, a pit, and a possible cut.

3.1.1 Area 1a 3.1.1.1 Enclosures It is likely that the series of ditches and gullies identified in Area 1a represented the remnants of contemporary and successive small enclosures/field systems and drainage features and were associated with agricultural activities. Although interpretation and phases of usage was difficult various suggestions have been made and the following enclosures were identified: a possible rectilinear enclosure (Ditch J: F1025, Ditch A: F992, Ditch H: F905) which contained a small, internal curvilinear enclosure (Curvilinear B: F262), a later rectilinear extension (Ditch F: F900, Ditch Q: F904) and the partial remains of a second curvilinear enclosure (Curvilinear M: F993).

21 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

The large rectilinear enclosure dominated the site and may have been the focus of activity. It was represented by Ditch J (F1025) to the south, west and east and the northern extent was defined by Ditch A (F992). A possible later addition or contemporary parallel ditch was evident to the east (Ditch H: F905) and was dated from the fifth–seventh centuries AD. The enclosure was later truncated and cut away along its northern extremities by the linear ditch Ditch F (F900) which cut through F1025 (Ditch J) and F9992 (Ditch A). Internal features were few and consisted of small gullies (e.g. Gully L: F358) and a small curvilinear ditch F262 (Curvilinear B) that may have formed an internal division. This internal division was dated from the fifth–seventh centuries AD and was broadly contemporary with the Ditch H (F905). Large enclosures with internal divisions similar to this (F262: Curvilinear B) were noted at 3 (A023/015), along the same scheme, where a smaller curvilinear internal division was also noted and contained within a large sub-rectangular enclosure (Enclosure 2). A second, possible enclosure was represented by the ditch F993 (Curvilinear M). This was located in the northeastern corner of the site and only a portion of this feature was exposed. The remainder extended beyond the proposed roadtake and may be related to or form part of a small circular feature that is partially visible within this section of the site on the First Edition OS map of 1836 (Figure 3). This feature probably post-dated the construction of the aforementioned rectilinear enclosure as it was dated from the sixth– seventh centuries AD.

The later possible rectilinear enclosure that may have represented an addition to/extension to the earlier aforementioned rectilinear enclosure (defined by F1025, F992, F905), was represented by Ditch Q (F904) was located immediately east of but along the same alignment as the southern extent of Ditch J (F1025) and ran parallel to and south of the eastern extent of Ditch F (F900). Together these two ditches formed what appeared to be a second rectangular area and enclosed a series of pits (F254, F258, F284 and F537–F540).

The remainder of the identified ditch features probably represented extensions to the aforementioned enclosures or were utilised as drainage features in conjunction with the aforementioned enclosures. The linear Gully N (F907) extended from the small possible enclosure F993 (Curvilinear M) towards Ditch H (F905) and may have served as a link between this small curvilinear enclosure and the earlier, large rectilinear enclosure defined by Ditch J (F1025), Ditch A (F992) and Ditch H (F905).

3.1.1.2 Kilns A total of three kilns (F548: Kiln 1, F883: Kiln 2 and F921: Kiln 3) and two possible kilns (F922: Kiln 4, F1006: Kiln 5) were noted in Area 1a. It is likely these kilns were utilised as

22 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme drying kilns. Drying kilns were commonly used to dry cereals, such as corn, which was an important part of cereal processing (O Keefe 2000, 66), especially in the relatively wet climate of Ireland (Monk 1981, 216). Kilns were also essential to harden the grains to allow for effective milling (Monk 1991, 217). It was suggested in the Crith Gabhlach that a prosperous farmer (boaire) was expected to own a drying kiln while lower down the scale (ocaire) was only expected to have a share in a kiln. The author of Triad 140 also states that the ability to dry grain was taught to the male offspring of farmers of boaire and ocaire rank (Kelly 1998).

This assumption that these features were used as drying kilns is re-enforced by the presence of an abundance of charred cereal grains recovered from the fills of these features (ASUD; Appendix 13). A significant quantity of charred remains were recovered from Kiln 1 and Kiln 2 and included oat species, cerealis indeterminate, barley species, hulled barley, six-row hulled barley, bread wheat and cf. bread wheat. Corn marigold and a cleavers seed was also recovered from Kiln 1 while black bindweed and hemp nettle nutlets were recovered from Kiln 2. The quantity of charred remains from Kiln 3 was quite small and included a single grain of oat and a small quantity of barley species. It has been suggested that the mixture of crops contained within these features may suggest that each kiln was re-used successively and was insufficiently cleaned out after each usage (ibid.). No charred remains were recovered from the possible Kilns 4 and 5. A large quantity of charred grain was recovered from two nearby ditches (F905 and F993) and it is possible that this material represents waste material from the possible Kiln 4, possible Kiln 5 and Kiln 1. Charred remains from Kiln 1 were dated to AD 610–680 while charred remains from Kiln 2 were dated from AD 570–660 (Beta 247049 and 247050; Oxcal: AD 580–765 and AD 565–666, respectively; Appendix 5).

The three kilns were figure-of-eight in shape (F548, F883, F921) and two of these (F548, F883) had narrow ‘tails’ extending from one end, leading down slope, possibly to assist with the regulation of draught. The third kiln (F921) had no tail, but was surrounded on its south and east sides by a curvilinear gully (Curvilinear D: F919) which may have contained a fence etc. and functioned as a windbreak. Monk and Kelleher have attempted to form preliminary chronological framework with regard to kilns based on typology and form (2005). They have suggested that figure-of-eight shaped kilns and dumbbell-shaped kilns date to the early medieval period followed by keyhole-shaped kilns that date to the high middle ages. Kinsella (2007; Appendix 14) slightly amended this study based on recent excavations and suggested that figure-of-eight shaped kilns dated from the fourth–seventh centuries AD and keyhole- shaped kilns dated from the ninth/10th century AD to the late medieval period. Kiln 1 was dated from the sixth–eighth century AD so fits in with Monk and Kellehers’ date range

23 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme although is slightly beyond the date range accepted by Kinsella while Kiln 2 was dated from the sixth–seventh centuries AD and therefore falls into the date range put forward by both studies. Monk and Kelleher (2005, 81–3) have also suggested that figure-of-eight-shaped kilns were similar in size and generally had an overall length of 2–3m and were orientated northsouth or eastwest. Kiln 1, 2 and 3 measured 2.20m, 3m and 2.40m in length, respectively, and were therefore typical in size. The alignment of these three kilns differed and they were aligned NNW–SSE, northeast–southwest and east–west respectively and were therefore, aside from Kiln 3, not aligned in the direction typically associated with figure-of- eight-shaped kilns as recognised by Kelleher and Monk (2005).

Figure-of-eight-shaped kilns are a common feature found within the Irish landscape, particularly as a result of recent large-scale road projects and major development sites. They are predominantly located on and associated with late Iron Age (as in transitional sites between late Iron Age/early medieval period) and early medieval sites. Figure-of-eight- shaped kilns have been identified at Johnstown, Co. Meath (Clarke & Carlin 2008), Corbally, Co. Kildare (Tobin 2003), Jordanstown, Co. (Tobin 2002), and Raystown, Co. Meath (Seaver 2006). The majority of kilns identified along the proposed M3 were figure-of-eight in shape and examples were identified at Drumree 1 (A017/020), Baronstown 1 (A008/017), Lismullin 1 (A008/021), Boyerstown 3 (A023/015), Roestown 2 (A008/002), Dowdstown 2 (A008/033), Ross 2 (A008/082), and Castlefarm 1 (A017/001).

The two possible kilns (F922: Kiln 4 and F1006: Kiln 5) were irregular in shape and form and were located in closure proximity to each other in the northern extent of Area 1a. Kiln 4 was aligned northeast–southwest and had an overall length of 4.40m. It was roughly figure-of- eight in form with an additional oval extension to the southwest. Kiln 5 was contained within the Gully P (F994) and appeared to have been almost totally obliterated by this feature. It had an overall length of 3.20m and was aligned northwest–southeast.

In general kilns would appear to have been constructed some distance away from settlement activity and were usually located outside enclosures and in many cases in areas of a site associated with farming practices. This has been evident on large sites and in particular at Colp West (Murphy & Clarke 2001), at Johnstown (Clarke & Carlin 2008) and at Corbally, Co. Kildare, where geophysics revealed a large sub-rectangular enclosure which was located northwest of a kiln complex (Tobin 2002; 2003) and at Boyerstown 3 along the M3 scheme where the kilns were contained within/adjacent to an assortment of enclosures and field systems, which themselves lay on the outskirts of a possible ringfort and associated settlement site (see report A023/015). This may have been a precautionary measure taken in order to

24 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme combat the spread of fire. The kilns on this site were also located outside all of the identified enclosures.

3.1.1.3 Pits, postholes etc. The function of the remaining features contained within this section of the site is not entirely clear. It is likely that the majority of the pit features represent refuse pits: charcoal was recovered from one, charred remains from three, animal bone from one, burnt bone from two, burnt stone from one, burnt clay from two, and a piece of flint debitage from another. A row of postholes was identified towards the southern extent of this section of the site. It is possible that this feature once contained the remnants of a fence and it the remains of a timber palisade. It was located in close proximity to and east of Kiln 2 and Kiln3 and it is possible that it was erected to protect these features from easterly winds. A small circular hut structure was also identified in the northeast corner. This feature had a diameter of c. 2.5m and was too small to have functioned as a house structure. It is possible that it functioned as a temporary feature and may have been associated with the nearby kilns. A similar, although slightly larger structure (diameter c. 4m) was identified at Ardsallagh 5 (A008/038). This feature was also located in close proximity to a kiln (although earlier in date; third–fifth centuries AD) and was found in association with linear features that also possible represented the remnants of field systems associated with a nearby early medieval settlement (found in the immediate vicinity of Cannistown church and may have been associated with the earlier foundations (see Report A008/038).

3.1.2 Area 2b 3.1.2.1 Cremation pits Eighteen cremation pits and a possible 19th were located here. They were located in two small clusters: 15 were located along western boundary and four were located a short distance to the ESE. A significant quantity of charcoal, charred remains and lithic artefacts was recovered from the cremation pits. The cremated bone from a single pit could be identified as possibly human and bone from a second could be identified as animal. Lithic artefacts were associated with 17 cremation pits and it is possible that they represented grave good deposits. Some of the lithics were burnt and they may have been burnt as part of the cremation process/collected when collecting the cremated remains. The majority of lithics recovered in association with these features included scrapers (which appear to have been re-sharpened before deposition), large blades and regular flakes. A single cremation pit was radiocarbon dated to the late Neolithic period (F963; 2900–2690 BC; Beta 247051; Oxcal: 2909–2674 BC; Appendix 5) and it is possible that the entire cemetery dates to this period. This is significant as to date no Neolithic cremations have been identified along this scheme. A

25 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Bronze Age flat cemetery was identified at Ardsallagh 2 (see report A008/034) which incorporated cremations within urns and cremations in simple earth-cut pits scattered over a vast and extensive area. An Iron Age cemetery site was also identified at Berrilstown 1 (see report A008/034).

Charred hazel nutshell fragments, crab apples (dominated all samples and some of these appeared to have been halved prior to being charred) and elderberry fruitstones were recovered from the cremation pits (one of which was dated context F963) and would suggest that gathered wild foods were an important part of the diet of the Neolithic habitants of this site (ASUD; Appendix 7). It is not unusual to recover hazelnut shells from prehistoric sites (McComb & Simpson 1999) and the recovery of apple pips from Neolithic sites is also not atypical, although fragments of charred endocarps are less frequently recorded (Monk 1988) – endocarps were recovered from 12 (F961–F963, F975, F978–F980, F982–F985 and F987) of the cremation pits contained within this site (ASUD; Appendix 7). It is possible that the above species represent remains of food offerings placed on the funeral pyre or the remnants of ritual feastings although the presence of crab apples may have had a greater significance other than that of a food offering as many texts have suggested that apples were regarded as having a mythical, beneficial properties (Chevalier & Gheerbrant 1982; Waring 1978; Vickery 1995) and apples were associated with immortality and the afterlife (ASUD; Appendix 7). Burnt sheep/goat bones were also identified and may also have had some ritual significance. Wheat grains were frequently recorded (probably emmer wheat), barley grains were occasionally recorded, a few oat grains (diagnostic chaff absent) and wheat grains were noted (probably associated with bread wheat) and two peas were recorded (ASUD; Appendix 7). Emmer wheat and naked barley are cereals commonly recorded on Neolithic sites and as it is generally believed that oat was not cultivated in Ireland until the early medieval period (Monk 1988) so it is likely that the oat species recovered from the cremation pits are derived from wild rather than cultivated species while bread wheat and legumes are usually associated with the historic period (ibid.). The low number of chaff fragments and weed seeds would suggest that cereal grains had been cleaned prior to have been inserted into the pit fills (ASUD; Appendix 7).

Oak and hazel dominated the charcoal recovered from the cremation pits and very small quantities of elm, elder, willow/poplar, cherries, maloideae, ivy, ash, and alder. As oak was the most abundant it is likely that is the main fuel used in the funeral pyre (ASUD; Appendix 7). Recent studies would suggest it was the favoured in prehistoric cremations (O’Donnell 2007). Hazel was a also a good fuel wood (ibid.) and may have used for kindling (ASUD; Appendix 7) and as it has been traditionally used for wattling (Orme & Coles 1985) it is

26 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme possible that is was utilised to form some sort of structure on which the body was placed (ASUD; Appendix 7). Maloideae and cherry may have been used in the cremation process because of the sweet smells produced when they were burnt (O’Donnell 2007).

3.1.3 Conclusion Three of the ditch features within this section of the site were dated from the fifth–seventh centuries AD and two of the kilns were dated from the sixth–eighth centuries AD which would place activity within this area to the early medieval period. It is therefore likely that the features uncovered represent the remnants of an agricultural site that was utilised in the early medieval period (from at least fifth–eighth centuries AD). It is also possible that this site was part of and used in conjunction with an associated early medieval settlement site that lies – as of yet undiscovered – outside the proposed roadtake. No area of occupation or industry was identified within Area 1a (absence of hearths, domestic finds, animal bone etc) and the identified structure was quite small (diameter c.2.5m) and not large enough to have functioned as a house structure.

Aside from lithics, artefacts from this section of the site were few: another indicator that this site was not utilised for habitation. The majority of lithics were redeposited and infact dated from the prehistoric period and were not contemporary with the early medieval phase of activity. Finds recovered included local medieval pottery (two sherds), local fine ware (two sherds), imported E-ware (two sherds), a horseshoe fragment, two small fragments of slag, a possible quernstone fragment, a possible wooden peg and a small possible piece of leather. The local wares are dated from 13th–14th centuries AD, were recovered from hillwash and are not contemporary with the radiocarbon dates obtained from the features within this area. The sherds of E-ware were recovered from secure contexts and from features that were associated with early medieval contexts. E-ware has been dated from generally between the late sixth–later seventh centuries AD (Campbell 2007, 46), a date that corresponds with those returned from the dated features with Area 1a (fifth–eighth centuries AD). The absence of animal bone (aside from 14 pieces) is also significant. It may have been that conditions were not favourable to ensure the survival of bone but it may also be that it simply did not exist. There was no evidence of butchery or gnawing etc. on any of the fragments of bone recovered and it was therefore not indicative of waste material. Animal bone (ie waste) is generally found in significant quantities on sites that were utilised as settlement areas and the absence of such material was noted on sites typically associated with agricultural activities. Aside from two small pieces of slag the presence of which wsa either incidental or indicative of small scale smithing or artefact repair, there was no evidence of industrial activity.

27 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Broadly contemporary early medieval dates were recovered from kilns at the nearby site of Blundelstown 1 (A008/038). It could be therefore suggested that the area outside the road take east of Castletown Tara 1 and south of Blundelstown 1 could be the location for a possible settlement site associated with the features identified within these sites. It is significant to note that the curvilinear ditch (F993: curvilinear Ditch M) identified during the course of this excavation extends into this area: as does the circular feature visible on the OS Map of 1836 which may actually be the same feature and represent the original full extent of F993. Nearby contemporary sites were identified at Castletown Tara 3 (A008/027) and Lismullin 1 (A008/021: A042). The site at Castletown Tara 1 displayed features and charcarteristics that were similar to those identified at Castletown Tara 3 – it contained numerous ditches and linears that in all likelihood formed small enclosures/field systems associated with and utilised for agricultural purposes and kiln features. This site was broadly contemporary with Castletown Tara 1 but had a longer lifespan and was utilised right through to the medieval period. The site at Lismullin 1 was of huge significance and displayed eveidence of occupation as well as ritual activities but is important as it is an example of contemporary settlement in close proximity to Castletown Tara 1. It also displays diversity of usage of concurrent, nearby sites in the early medieval period. Additional contemporary sites along the scheme that displayed evidence of field systems/enclosures that were utilised for agricultural purposes and also contained the remnants of figure-of-eight-shaped kilns included Garretstwon 2 (A008/008) and Boyerstown 3 (A023/015).

3.1.4 Surrounding Environment The analysis of the environmental remains recovered from this site is of the utmost importance. A considerable volume of remains were recovered from a variety of contexts throughout the site (pits, kilns, ditches, gullies, etc.) and from features dating from the prehistoric and early historic period and as a result allowed an insight into the environmental conditions and surroundings of this site at Castletown Tara 1 at various stages throughout the archaeological record.

The analysis of the charcoal recovered faciliates an insight into the surrounding woodland at Castletown Tara in the prehistoric and early medieval period. Oak and hazel dominated the charcoal recovered from the cremation pits and very small quantities of elm, elder, willow/poplar, cherries, maloideae, ivy, ash, and alder were also recorded and all of these species were native to Ireland and were most likely to have been readily available in the local landscape. Hazel, ash and oak can grow in wet or dry conditions and would have been selected from neighbouring woodlands, alder is a widespread native tree which can generally be found along streams and riverbanks and all willow favour moist conditions and would

28 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme therefore suggest a wetland area near the site (see report A008/035). The nearby River Skane would have provided a favourable location for the growth of willow and alder. Wild cherry needs light to grow and is found/near woodland margins and bird cherry occurs in marginal forests (A008/038). All these species are indicative of a mixed terrain and would suggest that open conditions did not prevail at Castletown Tara 1 during the Neolithic period. The identified species would suggest a mixed environment which would have consisted of large canopy trees (oak) with smaller shrub trees (cherry) which preferred to grow in a more open environment.

A much smaller quantity of charcoal was recovered from the early medieval contexts. Once again all the identified species were native to Ireland. Hazel was the most dominant species with much less quantities of oak recorded. As oak was the dominant species in the prehistoric period (late Neolithic) it is reasonable to suggest that by the early medieval period a significant portion of the oak woodland was cleared by the early medieval period. Other species identified included alder, which favoured wetland areas (again provided by the nearby River Skane) and willow and poplar: the former favoured wetland areas while the latter favoured rich, alluvial soils (ASUD; Appendix 7). Hazel, alder and ash were the species favoured for fuel in the kilns. Similar species (hazel, oak, willow/poplar, ash and alder) were therefore identified in the vicinity of the site in the prehistoric and historic period, although a more diverse range of species was identified in the prehistoric period (elm, cherries, maloideae, ivy and elder). It is therefore likely that a mixed woodland also surrounded this site in the historic period with smaller quantities of oak (probably removed as a result of wood clearance).

The charred remains would also suggest that different grains were utilised in the prehistoric period than in the historic period. Wheat grains were frequently recorded (probably emmer wheat), barley grains were occasionally recorded, a few oat grains (diagnostic chaff absent) and wheat grains were noted (probably associated with bread wheat) and two peas were recorded in the material recovered from the cremation pits (ASUD; Appendix 7). Emmer wheat and naked barley are cereals commonly recorded on Neolithic sites. The charred remains recovered from the early medieval contexts differed to those recovered from the prehistoric contexts but was consistent with other early medieval sites. It has been suggested that hulled six-row barley, oats and rye were the staple crops of this period (McClatchie 2007). Barley, oat, wheat and rye were noted in varying quantities on this site and therefore in keeping with the aforementioned assumption (ASUD; Appendix 7). Barley grains were most abundant (many could be identified as being hulled and a small number displayed the twisted shape which is characteristic of six-row barley). Oat grains were also numerous (large and

29 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme small grains) and included examples of cultivated oats. Aside from three examples in which an abundance of wheat grains (characteristic of bread wheat) were noted (recovered from ditch F993 and kilns F548 and F883) wheat grains were absent/were noted in small quantities in the remaining early medieval contexts and a few rye grains were recovered from the ditch F905 which would suggest that rye was a minor crop on site (ibid.).

3.2 Date and sequence Radiocarbon dating has played a fundamental role in interpreting this site and formulating a sequence of events. This was aided by the recovery and analysis of a vast quantity of lithic artefacts and a few ceramic remains. Prehistoric and historic activity has been identified within this site. As mentioned previously, four separate areas of activity were contained within the site: Area 1a, Area 1b, Area 2a and Area 2b. Prehistoric activity in the form of lithic artefacts was identified in Area 1a and the cut features were dated to the early medieval period based on radiocarbon dating and pottery. The features contained within Area 1b and Area 2a remain undated while the features contained within Area 2b were dated to the prehistoric period based on radiocarbon dating and associated lithic artefacts.

The earliest phase of activity was represented by a significant quantity of lithic artefacts which were recovered from redeposited contexts and hillwash in Area 1a. The first phase of activity occurred in the late Mesolithic: eight artefacts could be assigned to this period based on typology, including the Bann flake and the butt trimmed form, although up to 10–15 pieces could be assigned to this period. Lithic artefacts (two leaf-shaped arrowheads recovered from hillwash) from Area 1a were also dated to the early Neolithic period. These two items are not similar in form so may represent two separate phases of usage but together represent continuity from the late Mesolithic into the early Neolithic period. Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age activity also occurred in this area and was represented by a single hollow-based arrowhead.

Late Neolithic activity was also identified in Area 2b. Charred remains from one of the cremation pits was radiocarbon dated to 2900–2690 BC (Beta 247051; Oxcal: 2909–2674 BC; Appendix 5). Lithic were recovered from 17 of the 19 cremation pits are also typical of this period. It is likely, although not certain in the absence of further radiocarbon dating that the majority, if not all of the cremation pits are dated to this period and that they represent the remains of a late Neolithic cremation cemetery.

There then appears to be a significant absence of activity and the next known phase of activity was dated to the transitional period between the late Iron Age/early medieval period and into

30 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme the early medieval period. As discussed above, the features within Area 1a would appear to represent the remains of a sequence of early medieval field systems and enclosures and other additional and associated with agricultural activities. The earliest feature within Area 1a would appear to have been a rectilinear enclosure that dominated the site (represented by F1025: Ditch J, F900: Ditch A). The eastern extent of this feature was partially truncated by a later ditch (Ditch H: F905), which appeared to represent an addition to the rectilinear enclosure. Ditch H was radiocarbon dated to AD 440–640 (Beta 247047; Oxcal: AD 434– 644; Appendix 5). A small curvilinear enclosure was also contained within the large rectilinear enclosure. This curvilinear enclosure probably represented an internal division and was broadly contemporary with the Ditch H: the curvilinear enclosure was radiocarbon dated to AD 420–610 (Beta 247046; Oxcal: AD 426–601; Appendix 5).

The next phase of activity was represented by the construction of additional enclosures and the utilisation of drying kilns. The partially remains of a curvilinear enclosure were exposed in the northeastern corner of the site (Curvilinear M: F993) and would appear to represent the remains of a small enclosure. This feature was dated to AD 570–660 (Beta 247048; Oxcal: AD 565–666; Appendix 5) and was broadly contemporary with the figure-of-eight-shaped drying kilns. Kiln 1, which was located in close proximity to the aforementioned curvilinear enclosure and was dated to AD 610–680 (Beta 247049; Oxcal: AD 580–765; Appendix 5). Kiln 2 returned a radiocarbon date identical to that returned for Curvilinear M (F993) – it was also dated to AD 570–660. This feature was located immediately southeast of the aforementioned rectilinear enclosure and was broadly contemporary with kiln 1.

The recovery of two sherds of E-ware from two separate secure stratigraphic contexts enables the dating of two additional features to the early medieval period. E-ware has been dated from generally between the late sixth–later seventh centuries AD (Campbell 2007, 46), a date that corresponds with those returned from the dated features with Area 1a (ffith–eighth centuries AD). A single sherd was recovered from a linear gully contained within the area defined by the aforementioned rectilinear enclosure (as defined by F1025, F992 and F905). A second sherd was recovered from the linear Ditch F: F900, and would suggest that this feature was opened at some time during the sixth/seventh century. This ditch cuts through the rectilinear enclosure (Ditch H: F905 (AD 435–644), Ditch A: F992 and Ditch J: F1025). Ditch F (F900) therefore post-dated the rectilinear enclosure. This is evident, not only in stratigraphic terms, but also based on the recovery on artefacts (E-ware) and radiocarbon dating.

The only additional dateable artefacts recovered included four sherds of medieval pottery that were recovered from hillwash in Area 1a. Although these finds were redeposited and not from

31 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme secure stratigraphic contexts, they suggest a presence within the vicinity of Castletown Tara 1 at some stage in the medieval period (13th/14th centuries AD).

4 CONCLUSIONS Castletown Tara 1 (A008/025) was excavated from 04 December 2006 to 31 March 2007 by Stuart Elder (ACS) as part of the M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme on behalf of Meath County Council NRDO and the NRA. Four areas of activity were identified – Area 1a, Area 1b, Area 2a and Area 2b – and together incorporated the remains of an early medieval site utilised for agricultural purposes (Area 1a) and included the remains of possible field systems/enclosures, ditches, drains, gullies, kilns, pits and postholes, isolated pits, and a possible hearth (Area 1b and Area 2a) and the remnants of a cremation cemetery (Area 2b). Castletown Tara 1 is a site therefore that displays evidence of usage at various intervals throughout the prehistoric and historic period. The analysis of the lithic artefacts would suggest a presence in this area from the late Mesolithic, through to the early Neolithic and early Neolithic/Late Bronze Age (Area 1a). The cremation cemetery was also dated to the prehistoric period and is most likely Neolithic in date. The site was subsequently abandoned and was not utilised until the early medieval period. Radiocarbon dating coupled with the recovery of E-ware would suggest that this site was then utilised from the fifth–eighth centuries AD. The recovery of local medieval pottery and local fine wares would suggest a presence within the area from the 13th–14th centuries (pottery recovered from hillwash and not secure stratigraphic contexts).

5 REFERENCES Campbell, E 2007 Continental and Mediterranean Imports to Atlantic Britain and Ireland, AD 400-800. CBA Research Report 157, Council for British Archaeology, York.

Carlin, N & Clarke, L 2008 ‘Living with the dead: an enclosed burial, settlement and industrial site’, in N Carlin, L Clarke and F Walsh Life and Death in the Boyne Floodplain: The linear landscape of the M4. NRA Monograph, Wordwell, Dublin.

Chevalier, J, & Gheerbrant, A, 1982 Dictionnaire des symbols: mythes, rêves, coutumes, gestes, formes, figures, couleurs, nombres. Paris.

Kelly, F 1998 Early Irish Farming. Dublin.

32 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Kinsella, J 2007 Cereal drying and Metallurgy at Lismullin, Co. Meath: A Preliminary Anlaysis. Unpublished report prepared for Archaeological Consultancy Services Limited.

O’Donnell, L, 2007 ‘Charcoal and wood’, in E Grogan, L O’Donnell & P Johnston, The Bronze Age landscapes of the Pipeline to the West, an integrated archaeological and environmental assessment, Wicklow. Wordwell: Dublin.

O Keeffe, T 2000 Medieval Ireland: an Archaeology. Stroud, Tempus.

Orme, BJ, & Coles, JM, 1985 ‘Prehistoric woodworking from the Somerset Levels: 2. Species selection and prehistoric woodlands’, Somerset Levels Papers, 11, 7–24.

McClatchie, M 2007 ‘The Study of Non-wood Plant Macro-remains: Investigating Past Societies and Landscapes’, in EM Murphy & NJ Whitehouse (eds), Environmental Archaeology in Ireland. Oxbow: Oxford.

McComb, AMG, & Simpson, D, 1999 ‘The wild bunch: exploitation of the hazel in prehistoric Ireland’, Journal of Archaeology, 58, 1–16.

Monk, MA 1981 ‘Post-Roman drying kils and the problem of function: a preliminary statement’, in D O’Corrain (ed), Irish Antiquity. Dublin.

Monk, M, 1988 ‘Archaeobotanical study of samples from pipeline sites’, in M Gowan (ed.), Three Irish gas pipelines: new archaeological evidence in Munster. Dublin.

Monk, MA, 1991 ‘The archaeobotanical evidence for filed crop plants in early historic Ireland’, in JM Renfrew (ed.), New light on early farming: recent developments in Palaeoethnobotany, 315–328. Edinburgh.

Monk, M & Kelleher, E 2005 ‘An assessment of the archaeological evidence for Irish corn- drying kilns in the light of results of archaeological experiments and archaebotanical studies’, The Journal of Irish Archaeology, Vol. 14, 77–144.

Murphy, D & Clarke, L 2001 Report on the Archaeological Resolution of a Multi-period Settlement Site at Colp West, Co. Meath. Unpublished report prepared for Archaeological Consultancy Services Limited.

33 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Nicholls, J & Sheill, D 2007 Geophysical Survey Report: Castletown Tara 1 & 2. Contract 2, M3 Clonee to North of Kells Motorway Scheme, County Meath. Unpublished survey report prepared by Target Archaeological Geophysics.

Seaver, M 2006 ‘Through the mill-excavation of an early medieval settlement at Raystown’, in J O’ Sullivan & M Stanley (eds), Settlement, Industry and Ritual, 73–88. National Roads Authority, Monograph Series No. 3, Dublin, Wordwell.

Stevens, P 2004 M3 Clonee–North of Kells, Contract 2, Testing Area 6. Report on Archaeological Assessment at Testing Area 12 Castletown Tara & Philpotstown, County Meath. Unpublished testing report prepared by Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd.

Tobin, R 2002 ‘Jordanstown: Cereal-drying kilns’, www.excavations.ie

Tobin, R 2003 ‘Houses, enclosures and kilns: excavations at Corbally, Co. Kildare’, Archaeology Ireland, Vol. 17, No. 3. 32–7.

Vickery, R, 1995 A dictionary of plant-lore. Oxford.

Waring, P, 1978 A dictionary of omens and superstitions. London.

Signed:

______Stuart D. Elder, MIAI April 2009

34 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

APPENDIX 1 Context Details

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

1–3 Used previously in Topsoil Assessment Topsoil removed by hand prior to 4 N/A 10 N/A Topsoil excavation 0.30-0.50m in depth 5–8 NOT ASSIGNED 9 N/A N/A 4 Orange/brown sandy boulder clay Subsoil 10 N/A 9 4 Sod layer of Topsoil Topsoil ASSIGNED TO MATERIAL 11 REMOVED WHEN CLEANING BACK THE SITE 153 212 327 330 Moderate light greyish brown silty clay 366 368 Wash covering base with occasional small stones, charcoal 12 N/A 370 375 4 of slope in north of See App 2 flecks & iron panning. 4.4m N-S x 0.38m 377 379 site depth x 0.28m thickness 461 824 1028

Loose mid greyish brown silty clay with v. 398 411 occasional charcoal, small stones & 13 992 436 Fill of ditch F992 423 decayed sandstone. 0.69m N-S x 0.9m depth x 0.8m thickness

Compact light orangey grey clay with occasional pebbles & decayed sandstone 14 992 402 406 408 702 Fill of ditch F992 1 x A6 & limestone. 9.0m E-W x 0.52m N-S x 0.14m

Moderate dark orangey grey clay with moderate charcoal, occasional decayed 15 992 405 705 406 410 704 sandstone & v. occasional small stones & Fill of ditch F992 decayed limestone. 11m E-W x 0.81m N-S x 0.33m

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid pinkish brown silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, small & 16 262 67 59 medium stones and v. occasional iron Burnt deposit in F262 #21 panning. 3m NW-SE x 0.52m SW/NE x 0.15m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay with occasional small stones, iron panning 17 119 18 562 19 and v. occasional charcoal & decayed Fill of ditch F119 #12 sandstone. 7.5m N-S x 0.74m E-W x 0.36m thickness Moderate light brownish grey silty clay with occasional small stones, decayed 18 119 119 17 Fill of ditch F119 #14 sandstone & iron panning. 2.0m N-S x 0.7m E-W x 0.13m thickness

Moderate greyish brown silty clay with moderate charcoal, occasional small 19 119 17 4 Fill of ditch F119 #10 #29 stones, v. occasional iron panning. 3.0m NW-SE x 0.94m SE/NW x 0.6m thickness

Moderate orangey brown silty clay with moderate burnt clay pieces & occasional 20 118 118 4 Fill of posthole F118 #11 #27 charcoal. 0.27m E-W x 0.25m N-S x 0.07m

Soft clayey silt, light grey with yellow mottling, with occasional ash inclusions & 21 262 22 29 Burnt deposit in F262 #7 charcoal flecks. 0.82m E-W x 0.54m N-S x 0.05m

Very soft purplish grey silty clay with frequent charcoal flecks & occasional 1 x 22 262 23 21 Fill of F262 #19 cremated bone & wood fragments. 1.0m A6 N-S x 0.64m E-W x 0.15m

Moderate silty clay, greyish yellow with red mottling, with moderate charcoal flecks & 23 262 24 22 Fill of F262 #8 occasional decayed mudstone. 0.7m E-W x 0.55m E-W x 0.09m

2 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Soft reddish brown silty clay with 25 28 moderate charcoal flecks & occasional 24 262 23 32 Burnt deposit in F262 #20 33 burnt bone, v. occasional small stones. 3.0m E-W x 0.37m N-S x 0.18m

Moderate light greyish yellow clayey silt 25 262 26 24 with occasional small stones & charcoal Fill of F262 flecks. 0.84m E-W x 0.11m N-S x 0.1m

Compact mid greyish yellow sandy clay 26 262 27 25 with occasional pebbles. 1.4m E-W x Fill of F262 0.13m N-S x 0.1m thickness Moderate greyish yellow clay with 27 262 262 26 28 moderate small stones. 1.4m E-W x 0.21m Fill of F262 N-S x 0.1m thickness Moderate yellowish grey clay with moderate charcoal flecks & occasional 28 262 27 24 Fill of F262 small stones. 1.4m E-W x 0.36m N-S x 0.09m Soft blackish grey clayey silt with 29 262 21 4 moderate charcoal flecks. 0.37m E-W x Fill of F262 0.14m N?S x 0.06m Friable greyish yellow silty clay with moderate small stones, occasional 30 262 31 4 Fill of F262 charcoal flecks & decayed sandstone. 0.86m E-W x 0.43m N-S x 0.17m

Compact clay, greyish brown with yellow mottling, with moderate small stones, iron 31 262 32 39 30 38 Fill of F262 panning & v. occasional charcoal flecks. 2.5m E-W x 0.68m N-S x 0.26m Compact light grey clay with v. occasional 32 262 24 31 40 charcoal flecks. 2.5m E-W x 0.26m N-S x Fill of F262 #13 0.18m Compact orangey grey clay with 33 262 34 24 occasional charcoal flecks. 1.5m E-W x Fill of F262 #9 0.35m N-S x 0.22m

3 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate clay, light grey with yellow 34 262 35 33 mottling, with v. occasional small stones. Fill of F262 1.5m E-W x 0.28m N-S x 0.13m

Compact yellowish grey clay with 35 262 36 34 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F262 1.5m E-W x 0.45m N?S x 0.15m Moderate greyish brown clay with 36 262 54 55 35 48 50 occasional charcoal pieces. 4.2m E-W x Fill of F262 0.68m N-S x 0.19m Soft clayey silt, blackish brown with yellow 37 262 38 4 mottling, with moderate charcoal flecks. Fill of F262 #16 1.5m E-W x 0.67m N-S x 0.2m Soft clayey silt, yellowish brown with black 38 262 31 37 mottling, with moderate charcoal flecks. Fill of F262 1.5m E-W x 0.36m N-S x 0.21m Very soft blackish brown clayey silt mottled with yellowish clay, with frequent 39 262 40 31 Fill of F262 #17 charcoal, occasional small stones & burnt bone. 1.5m E-W x 0.91m N-S x 0.27m

Compact clay, yellowish brown with grey 40 262 32 39 mottling, with occasional charcoal flecks. Fill of F262 1.5m E-W x 0.4m N-S x 0.25m

Soft light brownish grey clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, mudstone & 41 262 56 51 4 Fill of F262 yellow sandstone. 6.0m E-W x 0.86m N-S x 0.15m Moderate silty clay, greyish brown with yellowish brown mottling, with moderate 42 262 43 52 51 decayed mudstone & occasional yellow Fill of F262 #15 sandstone. 2.5m E-W x 1.06m N-S x 0.18m Friable clayey silt, light grey with yellow 43 262 45 42 mottling, with occasional charcoal flecks. Fill of F262 #26 1.75m E-W x 0.48m N-S x 0.16m

4 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate brownish yellow silty clay with red burnt clay inclusions & moderate 44 262 48 45 Fill of F262 charcoal flecks. 1.75m E-W x 0.25m N-S x 0.21m

Friable clayey silt, light brownish yellow with light grey mottling, with occasional 45 262 44 46 43 Fill of F262 charcoal flecks & yellow sandstone. 1.75m E-W x 0.4m N-S x 0.2m

Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay 46 262 48 45 with occasional pebbles & iron panning. Fill of F262 1.75m E-W x 0.25m N-S x 0.19m Compact bright orange clay with 47 262 36 48 occasional iron panning. 1.75m E-W x Fill of F262 0.31m N-S x 0.34m Compact orangey grey clay with 48 262 47 50 44 46 occasional charcoal flecks & iron panning. Fill of F262 #51 2.5m E-W x 0.56m N-S x 0.19m Compact brownish grey clay with 49 262 262 54 55 occasional mudstone & iron panning. Fill of F262 2.5m E-W x 0.56m N-S x 0.13m Compact light orangey grey clay with 50 262 36 48 occasional iron panning. 2.5m E-W x Fill of F262 0.22m N-S x 0.28m

Moderate silty clay, yellowish brown with 51 262 42 41 orange mottling, with occasional iron Fill of F262 panning. 1.75m E-W x 0.38m N-S x 0.13m

Moderate silty clay, greyish brown with orange mottling, with occasional charcoal 52 262 53 42 Fill of F262 flecks, iron panning & yellow sandstone. 1.75m E-W x 0.52m N-S x 0.16m

Friable clayey silt, light grey with orange 48 58 mottling, with occasional charcoal flecks & 53 262 52 Fill of F262 59 iron panning. 2.5m E-W x 0.5m N-S x 0.23m. Possibly the same as F68

5 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 54 262 49 36 occasional iron panning. 1.75m E-W x Fill of F262 0.42m N-S x 0.32m Compact greyish orange silty clay with 55 262 49 36 iron panning. 1.75m E-W x 0.25m N-S x Fill of F262 0.17m

Moderate dark orangey greyish brown clayey silt with moderate iron panning, 56 262 57 41 occasional small stones & decayed Fill of F262 limestone. 2.3m NW-SE x 0.6m NE/SE x 0.23m

Moderate orangey brown clayey silt with moderate iron panning, occasional small 57 262 58 64 56 Fill of F262 stones & decayed limestone. 2.3m NW-SE x 0.66m NE-SW x 0.25m

Moderate dark orangey greyish brown clayey silt with occasional iron panning, 58 262 53 57 burnt bone, small stones & decayed Fill of F262 limestone. 1.75m NW-SE x 0.73m NE/SE x 0.35m

Moderate clay, dark orange grey with light 16 60 brown mottling, with occasional iron 59 262 61 68 53 65 73 panning, small stones, charcoal pieces & Fill of F262 Whetstone 1 x A6 #52 75 decayed limestone. 11.0m NW-SE x 0.77m NE-SW x 0.18 thickness

Moderate dark orangey grey clayey silt with occasional iron panning, small stones 60 262 63 67 59 and decayed sandstone & limestone. Fill of F262 #30 2.3m NW-SE x 0.42m NE-SW x 0.07m thickness

6 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt 62 66 with occasional charcoal flecks, burnt 61 262 69 70 68 bones, animal bone, iron panning & small Fill of F262 1 x A6 #24 #31 71 stones. 4.0m NW-SE x 0.45m NE-SW x 0.08m thickness

Moderate orangey brown clayey silt with 62 262 63 61 occasional iron panning & small stones. Fill of F262 1.75m NW-SE x 0.47m NE-SW x 0.09m

Compact mid orangey grey clay with 60 62 67 69 occasional small stones, v. occasional iron 63 262 262 Fill of F262 70 71 75 panning. 5.0m NW-SE x 0.83m E-W x 0.42m

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt 65 72 with moderate iron panning, occasional 1 x 64 262 74 79 57 Fill of F262 #22 #39 small stones. 6.0m NW-SE x 0.85m E-W A6 80 x 0.2m

Moderate dark orangey brown clayey silt with occasional iron panning & small 65 262 59 64 Fill of F262 stones. 1.5m NW-SE x 0.2m NE-SW x 0.2m

Moderate yellowish greyish brown clayey silt with occasional iron panning & small 66 262 262 61 Fill of F262 stones. 1.5m NW-SE x 0.28m NE-SW x 0.33m

Moderate light orangey brownish grey clayey silt with occasional iron panning, 63 75 1 x 67 262 16 60 73 82 small stones & moderate decayed Fill of F262 77 83 A6 limestone. 3.0m NW-SE x 0.43m NE-SW x 0.17m

7 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate dark orangey grey clayey silt with moderate iron panning, occasional 68 262 61 59 charcoal flecks & small stones. 2.0m NW- Fill of F262 SE x 0.45m NE-SW x 0.33m. Possibly the same as F53

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, iron 69 262 63 61 Fill of F262 1 x A6 panning & small stones. 2.0m NW-SE x 0.19m NE-SW x 0.05m thickness

Moderate yellowish greyish brown clayey silt with occasional iron panning & small 70 262 63 61 Fill of F262 stones. 2.0m NW-SE x 0.32m NE-SW x 0.12m thickness

Very compact light greyish orangey silty clay with occasional small stones, 71 262 63 61 decayed limestone & iron panning. 1.5m Fill of F262 NW-SE x 0.61m NE-SW x 0.06m thickness

Moderate light greyish brown clayey silt with occasional small stones, moderate 72 262 73 64 Fill of F262 iron panning. 1.5m N-S x 0.22m E-W x 0.14m

Moderate reddish grey silty clay with 59 67 occasional small stones, charcoal flecks & 73 262 72 Fill of F262 76 decayed limestone. 2.0m N-S x 0.49m E- W x 0.13m thickness

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with occasional small stones, iron panning & 74 262 75 64 Fill of F262 decayed limestone. 1.5m N-S x 0.34m E- W x 0.16m thickness

Moderate yellowish greyish brown clay with occasional small stones & iron 75 262 63 59 67 74 77 Fill of F262 panning. 1.5m N-S x 1.19m E-W x 0.36m thickness

8 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate yellowish greyish brown clayey silt with occasional iron panning, v. 76 262 77 81 73 Fill of F262 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. 3.5m N-S x 0.49m E-W x 0.36m

Moderate yellowish greyish brown clayey 75 82 67 76 80 86 silt with v. occasional small stones, iron 77 262 Fill of F262 87 90 91 93 panning & decayed limestone. 5.0m N-S x 0.54m E-W x 0.12m

Moderate yellowish greyish brown silty clay with occasional small stones, iron 78 262 262 83 234 Fill of F262 panning, charcoal pieces & burnt clay pieces. 2.0m N-S x 0.25m E-W x 0.16m

Moderate greyish brown clay. 0.5m N-S x 79 262 80 64 Fill of F262 0.12m E-W x 0.18m depth

Moderate clay, light grey with yellow 80 262 77 64 Fill of F262 mottling. 1.0m N-S x 0.15m E-W x 0.1m

Moderate greyish brown silty clay. 1.0m N- 81 262 262 76 Fill of F262 S x 0.16m E-W x 0.11m

Moderate clayey silt, purplish grey mottled with reddish grey, with moderate burnt 1 x 82 262 67 77 clay pieces, iron panning, occasional small Fill of F262 #23 A6 stones & burnt bone. 1.5m N-S x 0.32m E- W x 0.05m

Moderate pinkish reddish violet brown silty clay with moderate burnt clay pieces, 83 262 78 67 Fill of F262 occasional charcoal flecks. 1.5m N-S x 0.28m E-W x 0.05m

Moderate yellowish greyish brown clayey 84 262 85 91 4 silt with occasional small stones. 2.0m N-S Fill of F262 x 0.42m E-W x 0.21m

9 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light yellowish greyish brown clayey silt with occasional small stones, 85 262 86 84 Fill of F262 charcoal flecks & iron panning. 1.0m N-S x 0.12m NW-SE x 0.15m Compact yellowish grey clay with 86 262 77 85 occasional small stones. 1.0m N-S x Fill of F262 0.17m E-W x 0.26m Moderate orangey grey silty clay with moderate small stones, occasional 87 262 88 77 Fill of F262 #59 charcoal flecks. 1.0m N-S x 0.63m E-W x 0.31m Moderate greyish brown clay with 88 262 89 87 92 occasional charcoal flecks. 1.0m N-S x Fill of F262 0.63m E-W x 0.47m Compact clay, mid grey with orange 89 262 262 88 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F262 1.5m N-S x 0.84m E-W x 0.5m Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay with occasional small stones, charcoal 90 262 92 77 Fill of F262 fleck, decayed limestone & iron panning. 1.5m N-S x 0.33m NW-SE x 0.05m

Moderate light greyish brown clayey silt with occasional small stones, charcoal 91 262 77 84 Fill of F262 flecks & iron panning. 1.5m N-S x 0.29m NW-SE x 0.22m

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt with occasional decayed sandstone & iron 92 262 88 90 Fill of F262 panning. 1.5m N-S x 0.39m E-W x 0.08m thickness Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 93 262 77 4 occasional iron panning. 1.5m N-S x Fill of F262 0.08m NW-SE x 0.11m Moderate brownish grey silty clay with 94 117 117 4 occasional small stones. 0.27m N-S x Fill of posthole F117 0.25m E-W x 0.08m

10 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate grey clayey silt with occasional 96 106 Flint 95 900 4 charcoal, small stone s& iron panning. Fill of ditch F900 110 scraper 10.8m E-W x 0.8m N-S x 0.09m thickness

Moderate grey clayey silt with occasional 96 900 97 95 iron panning & small stones. 5.4m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.75m N-S x 0.05m Moderate yellowish brown silty clay with 97 900 103 104 98 occasional small stones. 7.3m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.35m N-S x 0.14m thickness

Moderate greyish yellow silty clay with 97 99 103 106 115 occasional small stones. 15.8m E-W (min) 98 900 Fill of ditch F900 235 277 275 x 0.9m N-S x 0.13m thickness. Extended beyond limits of excavation

100 102 Moderate light greyish brown silty clay 99 900 107 108 98 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of ditch F900 112 panning. 4.5m E-W x 0.52m N-S x 0.2m

Moderate light yellow silty clay with 100 900 101 99 104 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of ditch F900 4.5m E-W x 0.29m N-S x 0.25m Moderate light grey clay with occasional 101 900 900 100 105 small stones. 10.0m E-W x 0.49m N-S x Fill of ditch F900 0.14m

Moderate greyish yellow silty clay. 2.9m E- 102 900 104 98 Fill of ditch F900 W x 0.15m N-S x 0.05m

Moderate greyish yellow silty clay with 103 900 98 97 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.83m N-S x 0.05m

11 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid yellowish grey silty clay with 97 102 108 104 900 105 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of ditch F900 111 116 7.4m E-W x 0.9m N-S x 0.3m thickness

Very compact silty clay, mid grey with yellow mottling, with occasional charcoal 105 900 101 104 Fill of ditch F900 flecks & small stones. 2.8m E-W x 0.33m N-S x 0.08m Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 106 900 107 95 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x 0.7m Fill of ditch F900 N-S x 0.07m Moderate dark greyish yellow silty clay 107 900 98 106 110 with occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.6m N-S x 0.08m Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with 108 900 104 113 98 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x 0.4m Fill of ditch F900 N-S x 0.15m Moderate dark yellowish brown silty clay 109 900 116 112 with occasional small stones. 3.7m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.2m N-S x 0.27m Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with 110 900 107 95 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.45m N-S x 0.09m Moderate dark orangey brown clay with 111 900 104 113 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.55m N-S x 0.34m Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 112 900 108 109 98 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.35m N-S x 0.11m Moderate light grey silty clay with 113 900 111 108 occasional small stones. 3.7m E-W x 0.7m Fill of ditch F900 N-S x 0.15m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with 115 247 114 900 4 occasional small stones. 12.0m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 251 0.95m N-S x 0.2m

12 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate dark orangey grey silty clay with 115 900 98 114 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.35m N-S x 0.1m Moderate dark orangey brown silty clay 116 900 104 109 with occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of ditch F900 0.3m N-S x 0.1m Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to steep (50°) slightly concave sides, 117 94 NAT 94 Cut of posthole breaking gradually to a concave base. Diameter 0.26m x 0.17m depth

Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to steep (50°) slightly concave sides, 118 20 NAT 20 Cut of posthole breaking gradually to a concave base. Diameter 0.27m x 0.17m depth

Curvilinear cut, running SE, curving 17 18 steadily to S. Sharp break of slope at top Cut of shallow 119 19 562 NAT 18 563 to steep (65°) concave sides, breaking curvilinear 563 sharply to a flat base. 7.5m NW-SE x 0.57m NE/SE x 0.24m

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, iron Deposit in spread 120 122 121 4 #28 panning & small stones. 0.58m E-W x F122 0.54m N-S x 0.07m

Moderate light yellowish greyish brown silty clay with occasional iron panning & Deposit in spread 121 122 122 120 small stones. 0.58m E-W x 0.54m N-S x F122 0.05m

Circular spread of burnt material. 0.58m E- Spread of burnt 122 120 442 121 W x 0.54m N-S x 0.15m material

Moderate dark orangey grey clayey silt 136 222 with occasional small stones & iron 123 1025 4 Fill of F1025 #98 237 260 panning. 11.0m NW-SE x 0.73m NE-SW x 0.14m

13 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate black silty clay with v. frequent 124 905 217 218 127 charcoal, occasional burnt stones. 1.0m Fill of ditch F905 #25 #99 N-S x 0.64m E-W x 0.11m

Moderate brownish grey clay with 126 127 125 1025 136 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F1025 #87 797 12.5m length x 0.64m width x 0.22m

Moderate clay, grey with orange mottling, with occasional small stones & iron 126 1025 218 219 125 237 Fill of F1025 panning. 4.25m length x 0.67m width x 0.21m

Moderate dark orangey grey clayey silt 178 221 127 1025 125 222 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of F1025 #83 238 793 panning. 8.2m N-S x 0.73m E-W x 0.14m

Moderate orangey grey clay with 128 1025 1025 129 occasional small stones. 2.0m SE/NW x Fill of F1025 0.26m NE-SW x 0.36m Moderate brownish grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, small stones & 129 1025 128 126 178 221 Fill of F1025 #111 iron panning. 8.0m NW-SE x 0.42m E-W x 0.17m

Moderate brownish grey silty clay with 130 905 905 131 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of ditch F905 2.5m N-S x 0.25m NE-SW x 0.25m

Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay 133 217 218 131 905 130 with v. occasional small stones & charcoal Fill of ditch F905 #88 220 flecks. 2.5m N-S x 0.3m E-W x 0.08m

14 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate dark reddish grey clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, small stones & 132 905 134 4 Fill of ditch F905 Quartz #89 iron panning. 3.5m N-S x 0.49m E-W x 0.13m

Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with 131 135 occasional charcoal flecks, small stones & 133 905 134 Fill of ditch F905 #90 220 iron panning. 3.5m N-S x 0.37m E-W x 0.14m

Moderate light reddish grey silty clay with 134 905 133 132 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of ditch F905 #91 3.75m N-S x 0.18m E-W x 0.06m

Moderate brownish grey silty clay. 2.5m N- 135 905 905 133 Fill of ditch F905 S x 0.32m E-W x 0.17m

Moderate dark orangey grey clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, small 136 1025 125 123 Fill of F1025 stones & iron panning. 2.1m N-S x 0.33m E-W x 0.06m

Moderate dark brownish grey clayey silt 137 905 138 4 with occasional charcoal flecks & small Fill of ditch F905 #68 #92 stones. 3.5m N-S x 0.51m E-W x 0.1m

Moderate dark pinkish brown clayey silt with moderate charcoal flecks, occasional 138 905 139 137 Fill of ditch F905 1 x A6 #3 #93 burnt bones & small stones. 2.5m N-S x 0.46m E-W x 0.11m

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks & small 139 905 288 138 Fill of ditch F905 #4 stones, v. occasional burnt bones. 4.0m N-S x 0.84m E-W x 0.04m

Moderate dark brownish grey clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks & small 140 905 141 4 Fill of ditch F905 stones. 2.5m NW-SE x 0.34m NE-SW x 0.09m

15 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light grey clay silt with 141 905 142 140 occasional small stones. 2.5m N-S x Fill of ditch F905 0.14m E-W x 0.04m

Moderate mid pinkish brown clayey silt 143 149 142 905 141 with moderate charcoal flecks, occasional Fill of ditch F905 #2 #117 541 burnt bones & small stones.

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks & small 143 905 145 142 Fill of ditch F905 stones, v. occasional burnt bones. 3.75m N-S x 0.44m E-W x 0.06m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks, v. occasional Quernstone 144 spread NAT 4 spread #1 small stones & iron panning. 0.3m width x fragment 0.11m thickness

Moderate light yellowish brown silty clay 145 905 289 143 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of ditch F905 panning. 2.75m N-S x 0.75m E-W x 0.11m

Loose mid greyish brown clayey silt with 147 151 146 905 4 occasional iron panning. 3.5m N-S x 0.8m Fill of ditch F905 223 E-W x 0.08m

Soft mid orangey brown silty clay with 147 905 148 146 occasional iron panning. 5.0m N-S x Fill of ditch F905 0.52m E-W x 0.09m

Moderate mid greyish orangey brown silty 148 905 149 147 223 clay with occasional iron panning. 5.0m N- Fill of ditch F905 S x 0.86m E-W x 0.27m

Moderate mid greyish brown silty clay with 149 905 150 226 142 152 224 occasional iron panning. 8.5m N-S x Fill of ditch F905 0.66m E-W x 0.35m

16 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid orangey brown silty clay 150 905 905 149 with occasional small stones. 2.5m N-S x Fill of ditch F905 0.29m E-W x 0.13m

Moderate mid greyish brown clayey silt 151 905 152 146 with occasional charcoal & iron panning. Fill of ditch F905 1.75m N-S x 0.55m E-W x 0.09m

Moderate grey silty clay with occasional 152 905 149 225 151 charcoal flecks & iron panning. 7.5m N-S x Fill of ditch F905 0.83m E-W x 0.39m 153 Same as F12 Moderate grey clayey silt with moderate 154 157 155 4 burnt stones & occasional charcoal. 0.65m Fill of pit F157 #5 N-S x 0.2m E-W x 0.09m Moderate black clayey silt with moderate 155 157 156 154 charcoal & burnt stones. 0.98m E-W x Fill of pit F157 #6 0.65m N-S x 0.11m Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 156 157 157 155 occasional small stones. 0.7m E-W x Fill of pit F157 0.65m N-S x 0.11m Irregular cut, gradual break of slope at top 154 to steep (50°) convex sides, breaking 157 155 254 156 Cut of pit gradually to an uneven base. 1.04m E-W x 156 0.65m N-S x 0.38m

158 Cancelled. Same as F4 159 Cancelled. Same as F4 #38 160 Cancelled. Same as F4 161 Cancelled. Same as F4 #36 162 Cancelled. Same as F4 #37 #84 163 Cancelled. Same as F4 164 Cancelled. Same as F4 165 Cancelled. Same as F4 166 Cancelled. Same as F4

17 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Soft mid brownish grey clayey silt with 168 177 occasional small stones, charcoal flecks & 167 1025 176 207 Fill of F1025 #100 203 208 iron panning. 17.5m NE-SW x 0.72m NW- SE x 0.15m

Moderate reddish brown silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, small stones & 168 1025 592 167 Fill of F1025 iron panning. 5.6m E-W x 0.84m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, small stones & 169 1025 593 595 177 592 597 Fill of F1025 iron panning. 7.8m E-W x 1.68m N-S x 0.36m

Moderate yellowish brown silty clay with 175 205 occasional small stones, v. occasional 170 1025 594 595 Fill of F1025 #72 #85 209 596 charcoal flecks. 13.5m E-W x 0.73m N-S x 0.2m

Moderate reddish brown sandy clay with 183 201 171 920 4 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F920 202 7.6m E-W x 0.42m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate silty clay with v. occasional 172 920 173 174 183 charcoal flecks, small stones & iron Fill of F920 #96 panning. 6.3m E-W x 0.33m N-S x 0.13m

Moderate yellowish brown silty clay with v. occasional charcoal flecks, small stones & 173 920 920 172 Fill of F920 #97 iron panning. 2.8m E-W x 0.72m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with 174 920 199 200 172 201 202 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F920 5.4m E-W x 0.32m N-S x 0.06m

18 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact mid greyish brown silty clay with 175 1025 1025 170 occasional small stones, v. occasional iron Fill of F175 panning. 4.2m E-W x 0.55m N-S x 0.28m

Moderate mid reddish brown silty clay with v. occasional charcoal flecks & occasional 176 1025 167 4 Fill of F1025 small stones. 3.0m E-W x 0.35m N-S x .09m

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, small stones & 177 1025 169 167 Fill of F1025 iron panning. 3.0m E-W x 0.23m N-S x 0.08m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with 178 1025 129 127 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F1025 2.2m SE/NW x 0.2m NE-SW x 0.13m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron 179 118 180 4 Fill of pit F118 #110 panning & small stones. 0.49m width x 0.08m depth

Moderate reddish grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, small stones & 180 778 181 179 Fill of spread F778 #94 v. occasional iron panning. 2.02m N-S x 0.6m E-W x 0.14m

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron 181 778 182 180 Fill of spread F778 #95 panning & small stones. 1.81m N-S x 0.6m E-W x 0.09m

Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay with occasional small stones, iron panning 182 778 778 181 Fill of spread F778 & v. occasional charcoal flecks. 1.4m N-S x 0.6m E-W x 0.4m

19 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 183 920 172 171 frequent small stones & occasional iron Fill of F920 panning. 1.8m E-W x 0.16m N-S x 0.2m

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt 184 254 185 4 with occasional small stones. 1.36m N-S x Fill of F254 0.47m E-W x 0.09m

Moderate mid yellowish grey clayey silt 185 254 186 184 with v. occasional small stones. 1.36m N- Fill of F254 S x 0.6m E-W x 0.08m

Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 186 254 187 185 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F254 1.36m N-S x 0.35m E-W x 0.12m

Moderate greyish orange clayey silt with 187 254 188 186 moderate iron panning & small stones. Fill of F254 1.36m N-S x 0.26m E-W x 0.08m

Moderate orangey yellowish grey mottled clayey silt with moderate iron panning & 188 254 189 190 187 Fill of F254 small stones. 1.36m N-S x 0.27m E-W x 0.28m

Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 189 254 254 188 moderate small stones & occasional iron Fill of F254 panning. 1.36m N-S x 0.2m E-W x 0.23m

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 190 254 191 188 moderate small stones. 0.86m NE-SW x Fill of F254 0.26m NW-SE x 0.23m Moderate mid grey clayey silt with 191 254 192 190 occasional small stones. 0.86m NE-SW x Fill of F254 0.85m NW-SE x 0.18m Moderate clayey silt, grey with orange & yellow mottling, with moderate small 192 254 193 191 Fill of F254 stones & charcoal flecks. 0.86m NE-SW x 0.43m NW-SE x 0.17m

20 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid orangey grey clayey silt with 193 254 194 192 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F254 0.86m NE-SW x 0.35m NW-SE x 0.06m

Moderate orange clayey silt with moderate 194 254 195 193 iron panning. 0.86m NE-SW x 0.47m NW- Fill of F254 SE x 0.15m Moderate mid yellowish grey clayey silt 195 254 254 194 with occasional small stones. 0.86m NE- Fill of F254 SW x 0.26m NW-SE x 0.1m Moderate mid greyish brown sandy clay (20:80) with moderate burnt clay pieces, 196 198 197 4 Fill of posthole F198 #32 charcoal flecks & pieces. 0.3m N-S x 0.3m E-W x 0.34m

Moderate light greyish brown sandy clay 197 198 198 196 (10:90) with occasional medium stones. Fill of posthole F198 #33 0.34m E-W x 0.3m N-S x 0.34m

Circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to 196 vertical (85°) sides, breaking sharply to a 198 NAT 197 Cut of posthole 197 concave base. Vertical axis. 0.34m E-W x 0.32m N-S x 0.34m

Moderate yellowish grey clayey silt with occasional iron panning & v. occasional 199 920 920 174 Fill of F920 small stones. 2.2m E-W x 0.31m N-S x 0.05m Moderate yellowish grey clayey silt with 200 920 920 174 occasional small stone & iron panning. Fill of F920 #101 2.4m E-W x 0.2m N-S x 0.06m

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay 201 920 174 171 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of F920 panning. 2.4m E-W x 0.36m N-S x 0.05m

21 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay 202 920 174 171 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of F920 panning. 2.4m E-W x 0.27m N-S x 0.1m

Moderate light reddish brown clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, small 203 1025 204 167 Fill of F1025 stones & iron panning. 3.6m x 1.29m x 0.37m

Compact light brownish grey clay with 204 1025 210 203 208 285 occasional small stones. 12.4m NE-SW x Fill of F1025 #86 0.6m NW-SE x 0.22m

Moderate mid greyish brown clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, small 205 1025 206 170 Fill of F1025 stones & iron panning. 3.6m E-W x 0.51m N-S x 0.2m

Compact mid brownish grey silty clay with 206 1025 1025 205 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F1025 2.8m E-W x 0.4m N-S x 0.15m

Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with occasional small stones, charcoal flecks & 207 1025 167 4 Fill of F1025 iron panning. 2.4m E-W x .56m N-S x 0.16m

Compact light grey clayey silt with 208 1025 204 285 167 occasional iron panning & small stones. Fill of F1025 #73 8.0m NE-SW x 0.75m NW-SE x 0.26m

Moderate mid greyish brown clayey silt 209 1025 1025 170 with occasional charcoal flecks. 3.3m E-W Fill of F1025 #106 x 0.51m N-S x 0.15m

Friable orangey brown clayey silt with 210 1025 211 204 occasional iron panning & small stones. Fill of F1025 6.6m NE-SW x 0.61m NW-SE x 0.39m

22 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact mid greyish brown clay with 211 1025 1025 210 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F1025 #107 6.6m NE-SW x 0.41m NW-SE x 0.19m

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 212 996 244 12 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F996 1.65m N/W x 0.56m E-W x 0.13m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with 213 905 214 212 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F905 2.1m NE-SW x 0.27m NW-SE x 0.12m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with occasional small stones, iron panning & v. 214 905 215 213 Fill of F905 occasional charcoal flecks. 2.1m NE-SW x 0.24m NW-SE x 0.1m

Moderate light grey silty clay with 215 905 216 214 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F905 2.1m NE-SW x 0.23m NW-SE x 0.1m

Moderate light grey silty clay with 216 905 905 215 occasional small stones. 2.1m NE-SW x Fill of F905 0.48m NW-SE x 0.15m Moderate brownish grey silty clay with v. occasional small stones, charcoal flecks & 217 905 131 124 Fill of F905 iron panning. 2.5m N-S x 0.37m E-W x 0.03m

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with v. occasional small stones, charcoal flecks & 218 905 130 131 124 126 Fill of F905 iron panning. 2.5m N-S x 0.21m E-W x 0.1m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay 219 905 905 126 239 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of F905 #104 panning. 1.5m N-S x 0.75m E-W x 0.2m

23 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate yellowish brown silty clay with occasional small stones, iron panning & 220 905 131 133 Fill of F905 #105 charcoal flecks. 2.7m N-S x 0.46m E-W x 0.15m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with 221 1025 129 127 260 797 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F1025 2.6m NW-SE x 0.16m NE-SW x 0.17m

Moderate dark yellowish grey silty clay with occasional small stones, charcoal 222 1025 127 123 Fill of F1025 flecks & iron panning. 2.5m N-S x 0.2m E- W x 0.15m

Moderate orangey brown silty clay with 223 905 148 146 250 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F905 2.2m N-S x 0.86m E-W x 0.1m

Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 224 905 149 324 225 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F905 6.2m N-S x 1.25m E-W x 0.08m

Moderate dark violet grey clayey silt with 224 332 225 905 152 331 occasional charcoal flecks. 6.2m N-S x Fill of F905 336 1.7m E-W x 0.11m

Friable greyish orange silty clay with 226 905 228 149 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F905 6.2m N-S x 0.61m E-W x 0.14m Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 227 905 229 149 occasional iron panning. 4.5m NE-SW x Fill of F905 0.32m NW-SE x 0.11m Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 228 905 229 226 occasional iron panning. 6.5m N-S x Fill of F905 0.65m E-W x 0.18m

Moderate dark orangey grey clayey silt 326 333 229 905 227 228 337 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of F905 339 panning. 6.5m N-S x 0.45m E-W x 0.1m

24 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid grey clayey silt with occasional iron panning, charcoal flecks & 230 905 342 326 335 340 Fill of F905 pieces and v. occasional small stones. 6.5m N-S x 0.74m E-W x 0.12m

Moderate silty clay, light grey with yellow mottling, with occasional charcoal flecks & 231 232 232 4 Fill of posthole F232 small stones. 0.25m N-S x 0.25m E-W x 0.23m

Circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to near vertical (80°) sides, breaking 232 231 NAT 231 Cut of posthole #34 gradually to a concave base. 0.25m N-S x 0.25m E-W x 0.23m Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with 233 234 234 4 v. occasional small stones. 0.35m N-S x Fill of posthole F234 #53 0.34m E-W x 0.13m Circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to near vertical (80°) sides, breaking 234 233 78 233 Cut of posthole gradually to a concave base. 0.35m N-S x 0.31m E-W x 0.13m

Moderate mid yellowish grey silty clay with 235 900 236 98 occasional iron panning & small stones. Fill of F900 2.7m W/W x 0.545m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate mid yellowish brown silty clay 236 900 900 235 245 692 with occasional iron panning & small Fill of F900 stones. 4.6m E-W x 0.55m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate yellowish grey clayey silt with occasional small stones, iron panning & 237 1025 126 123 Fill of F1025 charcoal flecks. 2.75m N-S x 0.43m E-W x 0.29m

Moderate greyish brown silty clay with occasional small stones, charcoal flecks & 238 905 239 127 Fill of F905 iron panning. 1.75m N-S x 0.66m E-W x 0.11m

25 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light reddish grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, small stones & 239 905 219 238 Fill of F905 iron panning. 1.75m N-S x 0.62m E-W x 0.14m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay 240 905 905 239 with v. occasional small stones. 1.25m N- Fill of F905 S x 0.42m E-W x 0.12m

Moderate orangey grey clay with 242 278 241 1005 259 occasional iron panning & small stones. Fill of F1005 280 5.0m N-S x 0.75m E-W x 0.18m

Moderate silty clay, grey with orange mottling, with occasional small stones & 242 1005 1005 241 Fill of F1005 iron panning. 3.0m N-S x 0.58m E-W x 0.29m Moderate greyish orange silty clay with 243 996 246 244 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F996 1.6m N-S x 0.36m E-W x 0.18m

Moderate light yellowish grey clayey silt 244 996 243 212 with iron panning & occasional small Fill of F996 stones. 1.6m N-S x 0.26m E-W x 0.14m

Moderate greyish brown silty clay with 245 900 236 248 occasional small stones. 2.7m E-W x 0.2m Fill of F900 N-S x 0.28m Moderate light greyish brown clayey silt 246 996 996 243 with occasional small stones. 1.65m N-S x Fill of F996 0.64m E-W x 0.24m

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 247 900 248 114 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F900 2.7m E-W x 0.45m N-S x 0.18m

26 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Possible 245 249 Moderate silty clay, yellowish grey with Imported 248 900 252 509 247 251 253 orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F900 #112 pottery 512 stones. 18.0m E-W x 0.72m N-S x 0.37m sherd

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 249 900 900 248 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F900 5.0m E-W x 0.3m N-S x 0.14m Loose dark greyish brown clayey silt (15:85) with occasional charcoal flecks & 250 900 223 248 12 Fill of F900 #113 iron panning. 6.0m E-W x 0.82m N-S x 0.2m

Moderate clayey silt, brownish grey with yellow mottling, with occasional small 251 900 248 114 Fill of F900 stones & iron panning. 2.7m E-W x 0.16m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate silty clay (20:80), light grey with yellow mottling, with occasional small Flint 252 900 900 248 Fill of F900 stones & charcoal flecks. 5.2m E-W x scraper 0.67m N-S x 0.23m

Moderate yellowish brown silty clay with 253 900 248 4 occasional iron panning & small stones. Fill of F900 4.0m E-W x 0.66m N-S x 0.18m

Irregular shaped cut oriented SE/NW, 184 – sharp break of slope at top to steep 254 NAT 189 195 Cut of irregular pit 195 convex sides, breaking gradually to an uneven base.

Moderate yellowish brown clayey silt with occasional iron panning, charcoal flecks & 255 258 258 256 Fill of F258 #42 small stones. 0.3m NE-SW x 0.18m NW- SE x 0.08m

27 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light yellowish brown clayey silt with occasional small stones & charcoal 256 258 255 257 4 Fill of F258 #40 flecks. 0.3m NE-SW x 0.14m NW-SE x 0.07m Moderate greyish brown silty clay with 257 258 258 256 occasional small stones. 0.3m NE-SW x Fill of F258 #41 .12m NW-SE x 0.03m Sub-oval cut, oriented NW-SE, sharp 255 break of slope at top to concave (30°) 258 256 NAT 255 257 Cut of pit sides, breaking gradually to a flat base. 257 0.42m N-S x 0.28m E-W x 0.11m Moderate greyish orange clay with 259 1005 241 343 occasional charcoal flecks, iron panning & Fill of F1005 small stones.

Moderate greyish orange clay with 260 1005 221 261 123 occasional charcoal, small stones & iron Fill of F1005 panning. 1.5m N-S x 0.18m E-W x 0.1m

Moderate dark grey clay with moderate small stones, occasional charcoal flecks & 261 1005 1005 260 Fill of F1005 burnt bone fragments. 1.0m N-S x 0.14m E-W x 0.11m

Curvilinear cut, sharp break of slope at top to convex, steep sides, breaking sharply to 16, 21- 27 49 63 81 262 NAT a concave base. C-shaped curve, concave Cut of curvilinear 93 89 to north. 15m length (approx.) x 1.2m width x 0.78m

Moderate light yellowish grey clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks & 263 284 265 281 264 Fill of F284 #44 moderate small stones. 2.48m SE/NW x 1.03m NE-SW x 0.27m

28 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid brownish grey silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks & occasional #45 264 284 263 4 Fill of F284 small stones. 2.48m NW-SE x 0.25m NE- #108 SW x 0.12m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with frequent charcoal flecks & occasional 265 284 266 268 263 Fill of F284 #46 small stones. 0.8m E-W x 0.3m NE-SW x 0.24m

Compact mid brownish grey silty clay with 266 284 267 265 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F284 #47 0.8m NW-SE x 0.43m NE-SW x 0.16m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay with occasional small stones & v. 267 284 270 266 Fill of F284 #48 occasional charcoal flecks. 2.48m NW-SE x0.46m NE-SW x 0.15m

Moderate dark yellowish brown silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks & 268 284 269 265 Fill of F284 #50 occasional small stones. 1.0m NE-SW x 0.8m E-W x 0.22m

Moderate mid brownish grey silty clay with 269 284 271 268 283 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F284 #71 1.9m E-W x 0.56m N-S x 0.19m

Moderate mid greyish brown silty clay with 270 284 284 267 occasional small limestones. 0.8m E-W x Fill of F284 #49 0.71m NE-SW x 0.11m Moderate dark brownish grey clayey silt 271 284 284 269 with moderate small stones. 0.8mE-W x Fill of F284 0.36m NE-SW x 0.16m Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 272 900 275 274 occasional small stones. 4.6m E-W x Fill of F900 0.64m N-S x 0.23m Moderate grey clayey silt with occasional 273 900 274 4 small stones. 1.3m E-W x 0.48m N-S x Fill of F900 0.14m

29 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate grey clayey silt with occasional 274 900 272 273 small stones. 1.3m E-W x 0.21m N-S x Fill of F900 0.12m Moderate dark brown clayey silt with 275 900 98 272 occasional small stones. 1.3m E-W x Fill of F900 0.55m N-S x 0.2m

Moderate light yellowish brown clayey silt 276 905 133 134 with occasional small stones. 0.7m N-S x Fill of F905 0.37m E-W x 0.14m

Moderate mid brownish grey silty clay with 277 900 692 98 occasional small stones. 2.7m E-W x Fill of F900 0.14m N-S x 0.09m Moderate mid grey clayey silt with v. 278 1005 279 507 241 506 occasional small stones. 2.0m N-S x Fill of F1005 0.28m E-W x 0.08m

Moderate light yellowish grey clayey silt 279 1005 280 278 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of F1005 panning. 3.0m N-S x 0.33m E-W x 0.06m

Moderate light grey clayey silt with 280 1005 1005 241 279 occasional small stones. 3.0m N-S x Fill of F1005 0.22m E-W x 0.06m Moderate clayey silt, mid brownish grey with orange mottling, with occasional small 281 284 282 263 Fill of F284 stones & v. occasional charcoal flecks. 1.63m NE-SW x 0.32m N-S x 0.11m

Moderate silty clay, dark greyish brown with orange mottling, with moderate 282 284 283 281 Fill of F284 #102 charcoal flecks & occasional small stones. 1.4m E-W x 0.43m N-S x 0.26m

Moderate light orangey brown silty clay 283 284 269 282 with occasional charcoal flecks & small Fill of F284 stones. 1.4m E-W x 0.6m N-S x 0.2m

30 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

263 - Sub-circular cut, sharp break of slope at 271 top to steep convex sides, breaking 284 NAT 270 271 Cut of large pit 281 - sharply to an irregular base. 1.9m E-W x 283 1.64m N-S x 0.62m

Moderate light orangey grey clayey silt 285 1025 204 208 with v. occasional small stones. 2.0m NE- Fill of F1025 SW x 0.1m NW-SE x 0.1m

286 Cancelled. Same as F778 #103

Moderate clayey silt, grey with orange Possible mottling, with occasional charcoal flecks & Imported 287 358 358 4 Fill of F358 small stones. 2.9m NW-SE x 0.5m NE-SW pottery x 0.16m sherd

Moderate light yellowish grey clayey silt 288 905 905 139 with v. occasional charcoal flecks & small Fill of F905 1 x A6 stones. 1.02m N-S x 0.49m E-W x 0.06m

Moderate silty clay, greyish brown with orange mottling, with occasional small Flint 289 905 905 145 Fill of F905 stones & iron panning. 1.2m N-S x 0.38m fragment E-W x 0.09m Moderate light grey silty clay (10:90) with 290 294 292 4 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.25m N-S x Fill of posthole F294 #53 0.24m E-W x 0.1m Moderate light mottled grey & yellow silty Leather 291 294 293 292 clay with moderate charcoal flecks. 0.05m Fill of posthole F294 #54 fragment N-S x 0.24m depth

Moderate mid greyish brown silty clay with 292 294 291 290 frequent charcoal inclusions & burnt clay Fill of posthole F294 #55 pieces. 0.16m diameter x 0.27m depth

Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay 293 294 294 291 with occasional charcoal flecks. 0.12m Fill of posthole F294 #56 diameter x 0.12m depth

31 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

290 Small sub-circular cut, sharp break of 291 slope at top to steep convex sides, 294 NAT 293 Cut of posthole 292 breaking gradually to a concave base. 293 0.25m diameter x 0.39m

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt 295 993 462 463 4 with v. occasional charcoal flecks & small Fill of F993 stones. 5.2m E-W x 0.5m N-S x 0.1m

301 354 Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay 296 993 345 354 462 with occasional charcoal flecks & small Fill of F993 #109 466 stones. 4.6m N-S x 1.04m E-W x 0.21m

Moderate mid greyish brown clay with 297 993 298 301 463 465 occasional small stones. 5.2m E-W x Fill of F993 0.45m N-S x 0.15m

Moderate mid orangey grey clayey silt with occasional small stones & v. occasional 298 993 299 297 Fill of F993 charcoal flecks. 3.0m E-W x 0.48m N-S x 0.1m

Moderate mid brownish grey clay with occasional small stones & v. occasional 299 993 691 298 467 468 Fill of F993 charcoal flecks. 5.2m E-W x 0.7m N-S x 0.12m

Moderate mid orangey grey clay with 344 431 Stone 300 993 470 691 occasional small stones & v. occasional Fill of F993 #122 471 fragment charcoal flecks. 6.4m x 0.63m x 0.16m

Moderate light yellowish grey clay with v. 301 993 296 297 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F993 1.9m NW-SE x 0.46m N-S x 0.12m

32 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Loose dark brownish grey clayey silt with 303 311 302 907 4 v. occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F907 319 850 7.6m x 0.62m x 0.04m

Moderate mid brownish grey clayey silt 303 907 304 315 319 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of F907 panning. 6.8m x 0.48m x 0.08m Moderate mid orangey brown clayey silt 304 907 305 306 303 with v. occasional small stones. 1.0m x Fill of F907 0.19m x 0.13m

Moderate orangey brown clay with v. 305 907 307 304 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F907 2.1m NE-SW x 0.28m NW-SE x 0.11m

Moderate mid orangey grey clayey silt with occasional small stones & v. occasional 306 907 307 304 Fill of F907 iron panning. 1.0m NE-SW x 0.16m NW- SE x 0.12m

Moderate mid orangey brown clay with occasional small stones & v. occasional 307 907 308 305 306 Fill of F907 iron panning. 1.0m NE-SW x 0.34m NW- SE x 0.07m Moderate brownish grey silty clay with 308 907 309 313 307 occasional small stones. 2.2m NE-SW x Fill of F907 0.26m NW-SE x 0.18m Moderate brownish grey clay with v. 309 907 310 308 occasional small stones. 1.0m NE-SW x Fill of F907 0.13m NW-SE x 0.06m Moderate orangey grey clay with 310 907 907 309 occasional small stones. 2.1m NE-SW x Fill of F907 0.38m NW-SE x 0.05m

Moderate mid brownish grey clayey silt 311 907 312 302 with v. occasional small stones. 2.1m NE- Fill of F907 SW x 1.10m NW-SE x 0.06m

33 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate dark orangey grey silty clay with occasional small stones & v. occasional 312 907 317 318 311 316 321 Fill of F907 charcoal flecks. 6.8m NE-SW x 0.67m NW-SE x 0.1m Moderate mid orangey brown silty clay 313 907 907 308 with occasional small stones. 3.4m NE- Fill of F907 SW x 0.56m NW-SE x 0.06m Moderate mid brownish grey clayey silt with occasional small stones & v. 314 907 907 308 Fill of F907 occasional charcoal. 2.1m NE-SW x 0.47m NW-SE x 0.08m

Moderate dark yellowish grey silty clay with occasional small stones & v. 315 907 316 303 Fill of F907 occasional charcoal flecks & iron panning. 2.2m NE-SW x 0.46m NW-SE x 0.05m Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with 316 907 312 315 occasional small stones. 2.2m NE-SW x Fill of F907 0.7m NW-SE x 0.1m

Moderate orangey grey sandy clay with 317 907 907 312 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F907 2.2m NE-SW x 0.55m NW-SE x 0.1m

Moderate clay, grey with yellow mottling, 318 907 323 312 with occasional small stones. 3.4m NE- Fill of F907 SW x 0.42m NW-SE x 0.1m

Soft orangey brown clay with occasional 303 320 319 907 302 small stones. 3.4m NE-SW x 0.41m NW- Fill of F907 322 SE x 0.05m

Soft yellowish grey clay with occasional 320 907 321 319 small stones. 2.3m NE-SW x 0.34m NW- Fill of F907 SE x 0.06m Friable orangey brown clayey silt with 321 907 312 320 322 occasional small stones. 3.4m NE-SW x Fill of F321 0.35m NW-SE x 0.07m

34 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt 322 907 321 319 with occasional small stones. 2.3m NE- Fill of F907 SW x 0.38m NW-SE x 0.07m

Moderate clay, light grey with orange 323 907 907 318 849 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F907 3.2m NE-SW x 0.55m NW-SE x 0.05m

Moderate clayey silt, light orangey grey 324 905 325 224 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F905 stones. 1.8m N-S x 0.84m E-W x 0.18m

Moderate clay, dark grey with orange 325 905 905 324 mottling, with moderate small stones. Fill of F905 2.5m N-S x 0.82m E-W x 0.29m Friable orangey grey silty clay with 326 905 230 229 occasional small stones. 2.5m N-S x 0.9m Fill of F905 E-W x 0.57m

Loose orangey brown silty clay. 1.15m E- no 327 388 328 12 Fill of F388 W x 1.02m N-S x 0.14m sample #

Moderate dark greyish brown silty clay no 328 388 329 327 with occasional small stones. 1.15m E-W Fill of F388 sample # x 1.02m N-S x 0.19m

Moderate light orangey grey clayey silt no 329 388 388 328 with occasional small stones & charcoal Fill of F388 sample # flecks. 1.02m N-S x 0.62m x 0.22m

Moderate light brown clayey silt with 330 905 331 12 occasional small stones. 1.75m N-S x Fill of F905 2.01m E-W x 0.15m Moderate mid greyish brown clayey silt 331 905 225 330 with occasional small stones. 1.75m N-S x Fill of F905 0.38m E-W x 0.02m Moderate mid brown silty clay with 332 905 333 225 occasional small stones. 1.7m N-S x Fill of F905 0.31m E-W x 0.06m

35 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact light greyish yellow clay with 333 905 334 229 332 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F905 1.7m N-S x 0.94m E-W x 0.12m Moderate greyish brown silty clay with 334 905 335 333 occasional small stones. 1.7m N-S x Fill of F905 0.29m E-W x 0.17m

Moderate silty clay, greyish brown with 335 905 230 334 orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F905 stones. 1.7m N-S x 0.31m E-W x 0.25m

Moderate yellowish grey clay with 336 905 337 225 occasional small stones. 1.7m N-S x Fill of F905 0.54m E-W x 0.09m Moderate greyish yellow clay with 337 905 229 338 336 occasional small stones. 1.7m N-S x Fill of F905 1.12m E-W x 0.27m

Moderate silty clay, greyish brown with 338 905 341 337 yellow mottling, with occasional small Fill of F905 stones. 1.7m N-S x 0.54m E-W x 0.37m

Moderate greyish orange silty clay with 339 905 340 229 occasional small stones. 1.7m N-S x 0.5m Fill of F905 E-W x 0.17m Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 340 905 230 339 341 occasional small stones. 1.7m N-S x Fill of F905 0.61m E-W x 0.26m

Moderate silty clay, greyish brown with 341 905 340 338 yellow mottling, with occasional small Fill of F905 stones. 1.7m N-S x 0.38m E-W x 0.32m

Moderate grey clay with occasional small 342 905 905 230 Fill of F905 stones. 1.7m N-S x 0.25m E-W x 0.23m

Moderate reddish grey silty clay with 343 1005 259 4 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F1005 5.0m N-S x 0.73m E-W x 0.18m

36 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay 344 993 993 300 with occasional small stones. 2.3m E-W x Fill of F993 0.4m N-S x 0.13m Loose very dark grey silty clay with 347 389 frequent charcoal flecks, occasional small 345 993 296 Fill of F993 Flint blade 1 x A6 #123 393 stones & animal bone. 7.3m N-S x 0.59m E-W x 0.23m

Moderate silty clay (10:90), light blueish grey with yellow mottling, with occasional 346 993 359 347 691 Fill of F993 charcoal flecks. 5.0m NW-SE x 0.44m NE- SW x 0.19m

Moderate sandy clay (10:90), light yellowish grey with yellow mottling, with 347 993 346 428 345 occasional charcoal flecks, burnt clay Fill of F993 pieces & small stones. 2.2m NW-SE x 0.49m NE-SW x 0.32m

Moderate silty clay, reddish yellow with grey mottling, with occasional small stones 348 993 353 351 Fill of F993 & v. occasional charcoal. 4.0m N-S x 0.48m E-W x 0.05m

Moderate mid yellowish grey clayey sand 349 993 429 430 355 359 428 Fill of F993 (20:80). 4.0m N-S x 0.66m E-W x 0.24m

Moderate light blueish grey silty clay 351 392 (10:90) with occasional charcoal flecks & 350 993 390 429 Fill of F993 472 small stones. 6.5m N-S x 0.48m E-W x 0.06m

Moderate sandy clay (20:80), light grey with yellow mottling, with occasional 351 993 346 395 350 473 Fill of F993 charcoal flecks, burnt clay pieces & small stones. 6.5m N-S x 0.77m E-W x 0.13m

37 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate silty clay, light grey with light yellow mottling, with occasional small 352 993 353 430 431 Fill of F993 stones. 2.2m NW-SE x 0.64m NE/SE x 0.4m

Moderate silty clay (5:95), mid blueish 348 352 392 grey with yellow mottling, with occasional 353 993 993 Fill of F993 396 charcoal flecks, small & medium stones. 6.5m N-S x 0.9m E-W x 0.22m

Soft greyish black sandy clay (10:90) with frequent charcoal flecks & pieces, burnt 354 993 355 296 Fill of F993 clay pieces & small stones. 1.7m N-S x 0.75m E-W x 0.12m

Moderate blueish grey silty clay with 355 993 349 354 occasional charcoal & small stones. 1.7m Fill of F993 N-S x 0.72m E-W x 0.15m

Moderate greyish brown silty clay with 356 1036 1036 4 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of furrows F1036 0.8m N-S x 0.45m E-W x 0.1m Moderate greyish brown silty clay with 357 1036 1036 907 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of furrows F1036 1.61m N-S x 0.42m E-W x 0.08m Linear cut, aligned N-S, sharp break of slope at top to gently sloping sides, 358 287 NAT 287 Cut of linear breaking gradually to a concave base. 2.9m NW-SE x 0.5m NE-SW x 0.16m

Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay (10:90) with occasional small stones & 359 993 349 346 Fill of F993 burnt clay pieces. 1.5m NW-SE x 0.25m NE-SW x 0.28m

Moderate mid blueish grey silty clay 360 372 361 4 (30:70) with moderate charcoal flecks. Fill of F372 #60 0.3m E-W x 0.2m N-S x 0.09m

38 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate sandy silt (20:80), light brownish grey with yellow mottling, with occasional 361 372 372 360 Fill of F372 #61 small stones & v. occasional charcoal flecks. 0.26m N-S x 0.33m E-W x 0.08m

Moderate light blueish grey silty clay with 362 363 363 4 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.32m Fill of F363 #62 diameter x 0.11m Small circular cut, gradual break of slope at top to gently sloping sides, breaking 363 362 NAT 362 Cut of posthole imperceptibly to a slightly concave base. 0.32m diameter x 0.11m

Moderate silty clay (30:70), light blueish grey with brown & yellow mottling, with 364 373 373 365 Fill of F373 #63 occasional small stones & v. occasional charcoal flecks. 0.31m diameter x 0.09m

Moderate silty clay (10:90), mid blueish 365 373 364 4 grey with yellow mottling, with moderate Fill of F373 #64 charcoal flecks. 0.12m diameter x 0.12m

Loose mid blueish grey silty clay (20:80) 366 374 367 12 with moderate charcoal flecks. 0.23m Fill of F374 #65 diameter x 0.15m Moderate mid yellowish grey sandy clay (20:80) with occasional small stones & v. 367 374 374 366 Fill of F374 #66 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.35m diameter x 0.14m

Moderate mid reddish brown silty clay 368 369 369 12 (20:80) with moderate charcoal flecks & Fill of F369 #67 iron panning. 0.19m diameter x 0.06m

Small circular cut, gradual break of slope at top to sloping sides, breaking 369 368 NAT 368 Cut of posthole imperceptibly to a concave base. 0.19m diameter x 0.06m

39 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid greyish brown silty clay 370 371 371 12 (20:80) with occasional charcoal flecks & Fill of F371 #59 iron panning. 0.18m diameter x 0.11m

Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to steep (80°) sides, breaking sharply 371 370 NAT 370 Cut of posthole to a concave base. Vertical axis. 0.18m diameter x 0.11m

Small circular cut, gradual break of slope 360 at top to gently sloping sides, breaking 372 NAT 372 Cut of posthole #57 361 imperceptibly to a flat base. 0.30m diameter x 0.09m

Small circular cut, gradual break of slope 364 at top to gently sloping sides, breaking 373 NAT 364 Cut of posthole 365 imperceptibly to a concave base. 0.36m diameter x 0.12m

Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at 366 top to gently sloping sides, breaking 374 NAT 367 Cut of posthole 367 imperceptibly to a concave base. 0.31m diameter x 0.17m

Moderate sandy clay (20:80), light brownish grey with yellow mottling, with 375 376 376 12 Fill of F376 occasional small stones & iron panning. 0.37m N-S x 0.2m E-W x 0.05m

Small sub-oval cut, gradual break of slope at top to gently sloping sides, breaking 376 375 NAT 375 Cut of posthole imperceptibly to a flat base. 0.37m N-S x 0.2m E-W x 0.05m Moderate light brownish grey sandy clay 377 378 378 12 (20:80) with occasional iron panning. Fill of F378 0.34m N-S x 0.2m E-W x 0.1m Small sub-oval cut, gradual break of slope at top to sloping sides, breaking gradually 378 377 NAT 377 Cut of posthole to a concave base. 0.34m N-S x 0.2m E- W x 0.1m

40 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 379 548 448 12 occasional small stones. 1.55m N-S x Fill of F548 0.6m E-W x 0.04m Moderate dark orangey grey clayey silt 381 382 with occasional small stones, v. 380 548 448 Fill of F548 447 occasional charcoal flecks. 2.2m N?S x 0.4m E-W x 0.25m

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt with occasional small stones & v. 381 548 383 380 Fill of F548 occasional charcoal flecks. 2.2m N-S x 0.28m E-W x 0.17m Moderate orangey brown silty clay with 382 548 384 380 occasional small stones. 2.2m N-S x Fill of F548 0.18m E-W x 0.25m Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 383 548 384 381 447 occasional small stones. 2.2m N-S x Fill of F548 0.45m E-W x 0.2m

Moderate grey silty clay with occasional 384 548 385 382 383 small stones & v. occasional charcoal Fill of F548 flecks. 2.2m N-S x 0.18m E-W x 0.13m

Moderate brownish grey silty clay with 385 548 451 384 450 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F548 #115 1.95m N-S x 0.32m E-W x 0.1m

Moderate grey clay with moderate 386 548 387 451 charcoal flecks & occasional small stones. Fill of F548 1.7m N-S x 0.4m E-W x 0.14m Moderate black silty clay with v. frequent 387 548 548 386 charcoal flecks & pieces. 1.4m N-S x Fill of F548 #114 0.24m E-W x 0.04m Circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to 327 steep (70°) concave sides, breaking 388 328 718 329 Cut of pit gradually to a concave base. 1.15m E-W x 329 1.02m N-S x 0.46m

41 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 389 993 390 345 occasional small stones. 2.0m N-S x Fill of F993 0.25m E-W x 0.14m Moderate mid orangey grey silty clay with occasional small stones, charcoal flecks & 390 993 350 389 Fill of F993 iron panning. 2.0m N-S x 0.24m E-W x 0.1m Moderate greyish orange clayey silt with 391 993 392 398 occasional small stones. 2.0m N-S x Fill of F993 0.16m E-W x 0.09m

Moderate silty clay, mid greyish brown 392 993 353 350 391 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F993 stones. 2.0m N-S x 0.13m E-W x 0.11m

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 393 993 394 345 occasional small stones & iron panning. Fill of F993 7.3m N-S x 0.24m E-W x 0.15m

Moderate mid grey clayey silt with 394 993 350 393 472 473 occasional small stones. 7.3m N-S x Fill of F993 0.35m E-W x 0.12m

Moderate orangey light grey clayey silt 395 993 396 351 with occasional small stones. 2.4m N-S Fill of F993 x0.16m E-W x 0.17m Moderate dark grey clay with occasional 396 993 353 395 small stones. 7.3m N-S x 0.11m E-W x Fill of F993 0.11m Moderate light grey silty clay with 397 900 900 742 1008 occasional small stone s& iron panning. Fill of F900 12.6m x 0.42m x 0.16m

Moderate light grey clay with occasional 391 399 398 992 13 small stones. 6.0m E-W x 0.49m N-S x Fill of F992 400 0.08m

42 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate clay, light greyish brown with orange mottling, with occasional small 399 992 408 398 Fill of F992 stones & v. occasional charcoal. 6.0m E- W x 0.49m N-S x 0.13m Moderate greyish orange clay with v. 400 992 401 398 occasional small stones. 2.9m E-W x Fill of F992 0.26m N-S x 0.06m

Moderate clay, light grey with yellow 394 400 744 401 992 702 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F992 745 1032 1.5m E-W x 0.28m N-S x 0.13m

Compact orangey grey clay with 402 992 703 14 747 occasional small stones. 10.2m E-W x Fill of F992 0.74m N-S x 0.23m

Compact clay, purplish grey with orange 403 992 404 407 Fill of F992 mottling. 6.0m E-W x 0.41m N-S x 0.1m

Soft purplish grey clay with moderate 404 992 992 403 415 small stones. 6.8m E-W x 0.33m N-S x Fill of F992 0.7m Moderate silty clay, grey with orange mottling, with occasional small stones & v. 405 992 407 15 Fill of F992 occasional charcoal flecks. 3.3m E-W x 0.55m N-S x 0.18m Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with v. 406 992 15 14 occasional small stones. 3.3m E-W x Fill of F992 0.36m N-S x 0.16m Moderate dark orangey grey clay with 407 992 403 405 occasional small stones. 5.5m E-W x Fill of F992 0.82m N-S x 0.3m

Moderate clay, grey with yellow mottling, 408 992 14 413 399 419 420 with occasional charcoal flecks. 6.8m E-W Fill of F992 x 0.52m N-S x 0.21m

43 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact clay, orange with grey mottling, 1 x 409 992 421 402 413 with occasional small stones. 6.0m E-W x Fill of F992 1 x A6 A6 0.51m N-S x 0.23m

Compact clay, orange with grey mottling, 15 414 410 992 426 with v. occasional small stones. 9.0m E-W Fill of F992 1 x A6 422 x 0.39m N-S x 0.18m

Compact yellowish grey clay with 411 992 420 412 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F992 6.0m E-W x 0.46m N-S x 0.28m

Moderate silty clay, light brownish yellow with grey mottling, with occasional small 412 992 411 418 13 417 Fill of F992 stones & charcoal flecks. 6.0m E-W x 0.84m N-S x 0.21m Compact light yellowish grey clay with 413 992 409 408 occasional small stones. 3.0m E-W x Fill of F992 0.22m N-S x 0.1m Compact yellowish orange clay with 414 992 415 410 occasional small stones. 3.0m E-W x Fill of F992 0.35m N-S x 0.15m

Moderate clay, mid grey with orange 415 992 404 414 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F992 3.0m E-W x 0.39m N-S x 0.18m

Loose brownish orange silty clay with 416 992 412 417 occasional small stones. 3.8m E-W x 0.6m Fill of F992 N-S x 0.12m

Loose yellowish grey clayey silt with 417 992 416 423 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F992 3.8m E-W x 0.53m N-S x 0.1m

44 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate greyish yellow clayey silt with 419 424 moderate small stones & occasional 418 992 441 445 412 486 Fill of F992 charcoal flecks. 6.0m E-W x 0.53m N-S x 488 0.28m

Moderate clay, light grey with orange 419 992 408 432 418 Fill of F992 1 x A6 mottling. 6.0m E-W x 0.54m N-S x 0.28m

Compact clay, grey with orange mottling. 420 992 408 411 Fill of F992 3.0m E-W x 0.27m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate mid grey clay with pockets of 421 992 410 409 orange sand, poorly sorted. 3.8m E-W x Fill of F992 0.57m N-S x 0.28m Compact orangey grey clay with 422 992 992 410 435 occasional iron panning. 6.0m E-W x Fill of F992 0.48m N-S x 0.39m

Compact light greyish brown silty clay with 423 992 417 13 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F992 2.9m E-W x 1.24m N-S x 0.2m

Compact clay, grey with yellow mottling, 424 992 425 418 with occasional charcoal flecks. 3.0m E-W Fill of F992 x 0.38m N-S x 0.1m Compact light yellowish grey clay with 425 992 419 424 occasional charcoal flecks. 5.2m E-W x Fill of F992 0.47m N-S x 0.14m Compact clay, greyish brown with yellow 426 992 410 434 421 440 mottling, with occasional small stone. Fill of F992 6.0m E-W x 0.26m N-S x 0.23m

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 427 992 1011 746 1010 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F992 4.2m E-W x 0.49m N-S x 0.24m

45 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks & occasional 428 993 349 347 Fill of F993 small stones. 1.0m NW-SE x 0.51m NE- SW x 0.06m

Moderate light greyish yellow sandy clay, 429 993 350 349 with occasional small stones. 1.0m NW- Fill of F993 SE x 0.26m NE-SW x 0.04m

Moderate dark greyish orange silty clay with occasional iron panning & small 430 993 352 349 Fill of F993 stones. 1.0m NW-SE x 0.09m NE-SW x 0.19m

Compact clayey silt, dark orangey brown with grey mottling, with occasional small 431 993 352 300 Fill of F993 stones. 1.0m NW-SE x 0.4m NE-SW x 0.19m Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 432 992 433 419 occasional small stones. 3.0m E-W x Fill of F992 0.44m N-S x 0.1m Moderate orangey brown clayey silt with 433 992 434 432 occasional small stones. 3.0m E-W x Fill of F992 0.48m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate clayey silt, light brownish grey 434 992 435 426 433 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F992 stones. 3.0m E-W x 0.84m N-S x 0.27m

Moderate silty clay, dark greyish brown 435 992 422 434 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F992 stones. 3.0m E-W x 0.31m N-S x 0.15m

Loose clayey silt, mid greyish brown with 436 992 13 4 orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F992 stones. 3.0m E-W x 0.26m N-S x 0.15m

46 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate clayey silt, light greyish brown with orange mottling, with v. occasional 437 706 438 525 992 Fill of F706 small stones. 0.57m E-W x 0.23m N-S x 0.12m

Moderate clayey silt, light brownish grey 438 706 735 437 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F706 stones. 0.57m E-W x 0.17m N-S x 0.15m

Moderate clayey silt, mid greyish brown 439 706 527 528 526 736 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F706 #140 stones. 0.57m E-W x 0.13m N-S x 0.1m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay (20:80) with occasional small stones & 440 992 426 441 445 Fill of F492 1 x A6 iron panning. 2.2m E-W x 0.5m N-S x 0.18m

Moderate clay, mid brownish grey with orange mottling, with occasional small 441 992 440 418 484 Fill of F992 stones & v. occasional charcoal flecks. 2.2m E-W x 1.08m N-S x 0.14m Moderate clay, brownish grey with orange 442 568 443 992 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F568 4.0m E-W x 0.31m N-S x 0.3m Loose mid brownish grey clay with occasional small stones & v. occasional 443 568 444 442 Fill of F568 charcoal flecks. 4.0m E-W x 0.31m N-S x 0.21m

Moderate dark brownish grey silty clay 444 568 568 443 with frequent charcoal & occasional small Fill of F568 #118 stones. 4.0m E-W x 0.43m N-S x 0.1m

Moderate light greyish brown clayey silt 445 992 440 418 with occasional small stones. 2.2m E-W x Fill of F992 0.18m N-S x 0.11m

47 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate silty clay (10:90), light blueish grey with yellow mottling, with occasional 446 480 476 4 Fill of F480 Flint blade #78 charcoal flecks & burnt clay pieces. 0.2m diameter x 0.26m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay 447 548 383 450 380 with occasional small stones & charcoal Fill of F548 flecks. 1.14m N-S x 0.5m E-W x 0.2m

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 448 548 380 379 occasional small stones. 0.5m E-W x Fill of F548 0.38m N-S x 0.1m

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay 449 548 451 450 with occasional charcoal flecks & small Fill of F548 stones. 0.55m N-S x 0.5m E-W x 0.1m

Moderate dark yellowish grey silty clay 450 548 385 449 447 with occasional small stones. 0.5m E-W x Fill of F548 0.32m N-S x 0.08m Moderate grey silty clay with occasional 451 548 386 452 385 449 small stones & charcoal flecks. 0.5m E?W Fill of F548 x 0.35m N-S x 0.15m Moderate dark grey silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks & occasional 452 548 453 451 Fill of F548 small stones. 0.4m E-W x 0.2m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate orangey grey sandy clay with moderate small stones & v. occasional 453 548 548 452 Fill of F548 charcoal flecks. 0.9m N-S x 0.5m E-W x 0.1m Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 454 548 455 4 occasional small stones. 2.8m NW-SE x Fill of F548 0.26m NE.SE x 0.05m Moderate dark orangey grey silty clay with occasional small stones & v. occasional 455 548 456 454 Fill of F548 charcoal flecks. 2.0m MW/Se x 0.15, NE- SW x 0.1m

48 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with occasional small stones & v. occasional 456 548 457 455 Fill of F548 charcoal flecks. 2.8m NW-SE x 0.18m NE- SW x 0.16m

Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with 457 548 458 456 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F548 0.6m NW-SE x 0.13m NE-SW x 0.12m

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks & small 458 548 459 457 Fill of F548 stones. 1.6m NW-SE x 0.18m NE-SW x 0.1m

Moderate dark grey silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks & v. occasional 459 548 460 458 Fill of F548 small stones. 0.6m NW-SE x 0.16m NE- SW x 0.05m

Moderate dark orangey brownish grey silty clay with occasional small stones & v. 460 548 548 459 Fill of F548 occasional charcoal flecks. 1.6m NW-SE x 0.16m NE-SW x 0.06m

Moderate dark brownish grey clayey silt 464 461 N/A 12 with occasional small stones & charcoal Hill wash 1026 flecks. 8.3m N-S x 1.0m E-W x 0.92m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay 462 993 296 295 with v. occasional small stones. 1.0m E-W Fill of F993 x 0.55m N-S x 0.04m

Moderate silty clay, light grey with orange 463 993 297 295 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F993 1.0m E-W x 0.24m N-S x 0.09m

49 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid brownish grey clayey silt 464 993 463 461 with occasional small stones & iron Fill of F993 panning. 1.0m E-W x 0.72m N-S x0.05m

Moderate yellowish grey clayey silt with 465 993 993 297 occasional small stones. 1.0m E-W x Fill of F993 0.19m N-S x 0.07m Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 466 993 467 296 moderate small stones. 1.0m E-W x 0.59m Fill of F993 N-S x 0.07m Moderate light brownish grey silty clay 467 993 299 466 with occasional small stones. 1.0m E-W x Fill of F993 0.1m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate light grey sandy clay with v. 468 993 469 470 299 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F993 0.46m N-S (width) x 0.07m depth

Moderate silty clay, brownish grey with orange mottling, with occasional small 469 993 470 468 Fill of F993 stones & v. occasional charcoal flecks. 1.0m E-W x 0.13m N-S x 0.15m Moderate clayey silt, mid grey with yellow 470 993 300 469 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F993 1.0m E-W x 0.27m N-S x 0.1m Moderate dark orangey grey silty clay with 471 993 993 300 occasional small stones. 1.0m E-W x Fill of F993 0.57m N-S x 0.2m Moderate mid grey clayey silt with 472 993 394 350 occasional small stones. 2.6m N-S x Fill of F993 0.24m E-W x 0.06m Moderate mid brownish grey clayey silt 473 993 351 394 with occasional small stones. 2.6m N-S x Fill of F993 0.57m E-W x 0.11m Moderate light brownish grey silty clay 474 993 993 475 with occasional small stones. 2.6m N-S x Fill of F993 0.14m E-W x 0.07m

50 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with occasional small stones & v. occasional 475 993 474 4 Fill of F993 charcoal flecks. 2.6m N-S x 0.25m E-W x 0.07m

Moderate mid brownish grey silty clay (30:70) with frequent charcoal pieces & 476 480 477 446 Fill of F480 #79 occasional burnt clay pieces and burnt stones. 0.2m E-W x 0.1m N-S x 0.2m Moderate silty clay (30:70), mid yellowish grey with light blue grey mottling, with 477 480 478 476 occasional charcoal flecks, burnt clay Fill of F480 #80 pieces and small stones. 0.68m diameter x 0.3m Moderate mid blueish grey clay with 478 480 479 477 occasional charcoal & burnt clay pieces. Fill of F480 #81 0.33m diameter x 0.21m

Moderate clay, pale blueish grey with 479 480 480 478 yellow mottling, with v. occasional Fill of F480 #82 charcoal flecks. 0.32m diameter x 0.1m

446 Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at 476 top to steep, vertical sides, breaking 480 477 NAT 479 Cut of posthole gradually to a concave base. Vertical axis. 478 0.68m diameter x 0.48m 479 Moderate silty clay (40:60), light blueish grey with yellow mottling, with occasional 481 485 483 4 Fill of 485 #74 charcoal flecks& burnt clay pieces. 0.26m diameter x 0.16m

Moderate silty clay, mid blueish grey with yellow mottling, with frequent charcoal 482 485 484 483 flecks, moderate burnt clay pieces & v. Fill of F485 #75 occasional burnt bone. 0.2m diameter x 0.2m

51 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate silty clay (30:70), light bluish grey with yellow mottling, with occasional 483 485 482 481 Fill of F485 #76 charcoal flecks & burnt clay pieces. 0.6m diameter x 0.42m

Moderate silty clay (10:90), light blueish grey with yellow mottling, with occasional 484 485 485 482 Fill of F485 #71 charcoal flecks & small stones. 0.15m diameter x 0.23m

481 Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at 482 top to steep, vertical sides, breaking 485 NAT 484 Cut of posthole 483 sharply to a flat base. Vertical axis. 0.3m 484 diameter x 0.42m Moderate orangey yellow clayey silt with 486 992 418 487 4 occasional iron panning. 1.4m N-S x Fill of F992 0.14m E-W x 0.1m Moderate yellowish grey clayey silt with 487 992 488 486 moderate small stones. 1.4m N-S x 0.39m Fill of F992 E-W x 0.1m Moderate greyish yellow clayey silt with 488 992 489 418 487 moderate small stones. 1.4m N-S x 0.7m Fill of F992 E-W x 0.1m Compact yellowish grey clay with 489 992 441 488 moderate small stones. 1.4m N-S x 0.56m Fill of F992 E-W x 0.2m Moderate mid brownish grey clayey silt 490 994 491 4 with occasional small stones. 3.8m N-S x Fill of F994 0.41m E-W x 0.04m

Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay 492 497 491 994 490 with v. occasional small stones. 3.8m N-S Fill of F994 533 x 0.32m E-W x 0.07m

Moderate light orangey brown silty clay 492 994 493 491 with occasional small stones. 2.8m N-S x Fill of F994 0.18m E-W x 0.06m

52 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate clayey silt, light brownish grey 493 994 494 529 492 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F994 stones. 2.8m N-S x 0.26m E-W x 0.06m

Moderate clayey silt, mid brownish grey 494 994 495 498 493 497 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F994 stones. 2.0m N-S x 0.25m E-W x 0.12m

Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with 495 994 496 494 occasional small stones. 2.0m N-S x Fill of F994 0.19m E-W x 0.11m Moderate orangey brown clayey silt with no 496 994 499 495 occasional small stones. 2.0m N-S x Fill of F994 sample # 0.12m E-W x 0.08m Moderate mid orangey brown silty clay 497 994 494 491 with occasional small stones. 2.8m N-S x Fill of F994 0.1m E-W x 0.08m Moderate dark orangey brown silty clay 498 994 500 494 with occasional small stones. 2.8m N-S x Fill of F994 0.19m E-W x 0.1m Moderate dark orangey brown silty clay 499 994 500 496 529 with occasional small stones. 2.8m N-S x Fill of F994 0.16m E-W x 0.07m Loose dark greyish brown silty clay with 500 994 994 499 530 moderate small stones. 3.8m N-S x 0.42m Fill of F994 E-W x 0.12m Moderate light orange clayey sand with v. 501 537 537 502 occasional small stones. 0.45m NE-WW x Fill of F537 0.21m depth Moderate orangey greyish brown clayey sand with occasional small stones & v. 502 537 501 4 Fill of F537 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.62m NE-SW x 0.4m depth

Moderate orangey greyish brown clayey silt with occasional small stones & v. 503 539 539 4 Fill of F539 occasional charcoal flecks. 1.41m E-W x 0.2m depth

53 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light orangey brownish grey 504 538 538 4 clayey silt with occasional small stones. Fill of F538 0.54m E-W x 0.1m depth Moderate grey silty clay with occasional 505 900 506 517 514 charcoal flecks & small stones. 8.4m E-W Fill of F900 x 0.42m N-S x 0.08m Moderate orangey yellow silty clay with 506 900 278 505 occasional small stones. 3.8m E-W x Fill of F900 0.27m N-S x 0.06m Moderate brownish grey silty clay with 507 900 900 278 occasional small stones. 1.7m E-W x Fill of F900 0.39m N-S x 0.14m

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt. 7.8m 508 900 514 4 Fill of F900 E-W x 0.57m N-S x 0.15m

Moderate mid brown silty clay with 509 900 510 248 occasional small stones. 1.9m E-W x Fill of F900 0.25m N-S x 0.15m Moderate mid brownish grey silty clay with 510 900 511 509 occasional small stones. 1.9m E-W x Fill of F900 0.28m N-S x 0.13m Moderate mid yellowish brown silty clay 511 900 900 510 with occasional small stones. 1.9m E-W x Fill of F900 0.22m N-S x 0.24m Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with 512 900 513 248 moderate small stones. 2.2m E-W x 0.54m Fill of F900 N-S x 0.16m Moderate orangey brown silty clay with 513 900 900 512 518 occasional small stones. 4.0m E-W x Fill of F900 0.43m N-S x 0.24m Moderate mid greyish brown silty clay with 514 900 505 508 occasional small stones. 1.9m E-W x Fill of F900 0.37m N-S x 0.19m Moderate mid brownish orange silty clay 515 900 519 516 with occasional small stones. 5.8m E-W x Fill of F900 0.56m N-S x 0.2m Moderate mid brownish yellow silty clay 516 900 515 517 with occasional small stones. 3.0m E-W x Fill of F900 0.25m N-S x 0.2m

54 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid brownish grey silty clay with 517 900 516 505 occasional small stones. 1.0m E-W x Fill of F900 0.34m N-S x 0.13m Moderate light orangey brownish grey 518 900 513 519 clayey silt with occasional small Fill of F900 stones.3.0m E-W x 0.11m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate yellowish brown clayey silt with 519 900 518 515 Fill of F900 occasional small stones.

Moderate dark grey clayey silt with moderate charcoal flecks & occasional 520 548 548 4 Fill of F548 #119 small stones. 0.6m NE-SW x 0.27m NW- SE x 0.06m Moderate dark orangey clayey silt with 521 540 540 522 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F540 0.75m N-S x 0.19m depth Moderate light orangey brown sandy silt 522 540 521 523 with v. occasional small stones. 0.4m N-S Fill of F540 x 0.1m depth Moderate orangey brown clayey silt with 523 540 522 524 occasional small stones. 0.4m N-S x Fill of F540 0.14m depth Moderate light orangey brown sandy silt 524 540 523 4 with v. occasional small stones. 0.39m N- Fill of F540 S x 0.14m depth Moderate light greyish yellow clayey silt with moderate burnt clay pieces, 525 706 526 437 Fill of F706 #139 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. 1.5m N-S x 0.5m E-W x 0.14m Moderate light yellowish grey clay with 526 706 439 525 occasional charcoal flecks. 1.0m N-S x Fill of F706 0.3m E-W x 0.1m Soft greyish brown clay with occasional 527 706 706 439 small stones. 1.0m N-S x 0.35m E-W x Fill of F706 0.14m

55 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate clayey silt, orangey brown with 528 706 706 439 grey mottling, with v. occasional charcoal Fill of F706 flecks. 1.0m N-S x 0.21m E.W x 0.18m

Moderate dark orangey brown silty clay 529 994 499 493 with occasional small stones. 1.9m N-S x Fill of F994 0.38m E-W x 0.06m

Moderate mid orangey grey clayey silt with 500 536 530 994 531 v. occasional small stones. 3.3m E-W x Fill of F994 1047 0.22m N-S x 0.12m

Moderate orangey brown silty clay with v. 531 994 530 533 535 842 occasional small stones. 4.3m E-W x Fill of F994 0.21m N-S x 0.08m

Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 532 994 842 534 occasional small stones. 2.6m E-W x Fill of F994 0.31m N-S x 0.1m Moderate orangey brown silty clay with v. 533 994 531 491 occasional small stones. 1.8m E-W x 0.1m Fill of F994 N-S x 0.11m

Moderate clayey silt, grey with orangey 534 994 532 535 4 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F994 3.6m E-W x 0.47m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate light orangey grey clayey silt 535 994 531 534 with occasional small stones. 1.5m E-W x Fill of F994 0.54m N-S x 0.07m Moderate dark orangey grey clay with 536 994 994 530 occasional small stones. 1.5m E-W x Fill of F994 0.31m N-S x 0.26m Sub-circular cut, gradual break of slope at 501 top to concave (40°) sides, breaking 537 NAT 501 Cut of pit 502 gradually to a concave base. 1.04m E-W x 0.43m depth

56 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Sub-circular cut, gradual break of slope at top to concave (50°) sides, breaking 538 504 NAT 504 Cut of pit gradually to a concave base. 0.53m E-W x 0.16m depth

Sub-circular cut, gradual break of slope at top to concave (40°) sides, breaking 539 503 NAT 503 Cut of pit gradually to an irregular base. 1.4m E-W x 0.19m depth

521 Sub-circular cut, sharp break of slope at 522 top to concave (550°) sides, breaking 540 NAT 521 Cut of pit 523 gradually to an uneven base. 1.38m N-S x 524 0.24m depth

Moderate silty clay, light grey with orange mottling, with frequent animal bone, 541 905 542 142 Fill of F905 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. 1.2m N-S x 0.23m E-W x 0.14m

Soft light grey sandy clay with frequent 542 905 905 541 animal bone & occasional charcoal flecks. Fill of F905 1 x A5 #121 1.2m N-S x 0.27m E-W x 0.07m

Soft yellowish brown silty clay with 543 760 545 544 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F760 0.4m N-S x 0.38m E-W x 0.08m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with 544 760 543 900 905 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F760 #120 0.4m N-S x 0.28m E-W x 0.21m

Moderate silty clay, light brownish grey with orange mottling, with moderate 545 760 546 543 Fill of F760 charcoal flecks. 0.4m N-S x 0.28m E-W x 0.17m Moderate yellowish brown silty clay with 546 760 547 545 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.4m N-S x Fill of F760 0.38m E-W x 0.15m

57 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with occasional small stones, charcoal flecks & 547 760 760 546 Fill of F760 animal bone. 0.4m N-S x 0.5m E-W x 0.17m

379 - Figure of Eight cut, aligned N-S, sharp 387 break of slope at top to steep (75°) sides, 548 447 - NAT 453 460 520 breaking sharply to a concave base. Has Cut of Kiln 460 flue running from N end of cut for 2.8m. 520 2.8m N-S x 1.36m E-W x 0.7m

Loose reddish brown clayey silt (30:70) 549 553 551 4 with occasional small stones & charcoal Fill of F553 #124 flecks. 0.32m N-S x 0.36m E-W x 0.1m

Moderate mid greyish brown silty clay (10:90) with moderate decayed stone & 550 553 553 552 Fill of F553 #125 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.31m diameter x 0.21m depth

Moderate reddish brown silty clay (30:70) with moderate charcoal pieces, occasional 551 553 552 549 Fill of F553 #126 burnt clay pieces & small stones. 0.3m N- S x 0.25m E-W x 0.15m

Moderate mid yellowish brown silty clay 552 553 550 551 (30:70) with occasional charcoal flecks. Fill of F553 #127 0.3m N-S x 0.21m E-W x 0.08m

Small sub-circular cut, sharp break of 549 slope at top to steep (80°) straight sides, 553 NAT 550 Cut of posthole 550 breaking gradually to a concave base. 0.34m E-W x 0.3m N-S x 0.29m

Loose reddish brown clayey silt with 554 557 556 4 occasional small stone & charcoal flecks. Fill of F557 #128 0.27m E-W x 0.25m N-S x 0.07m

58 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid yellowish brown silty clay (20:80) with moderate charcoal flecks, 555 557 557 556 Fill of F557 Flint #129 occasional burnt clay pieces & small stones. 0.27m E-W x 0.05m N-S x 0.22m

Moderate dark reddish brown silty clay (20:80) with frequent charcoal flecks & 556 557 555 554 Fill of F557 #130 moderate burnt clay pieces. 0.27m E-W x 0.2m N-S x 0.24m

Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at 554 top to steep (80°) straight sides, breaking 557 555 NAT 555 Cut of posthole gradually to a concave base. 0.27m E-W x 556 0.25m N-S x 0.29m

Loose reddish brown clayey silt with 558 561 560 4 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F561 0.5m E-W x 0.48m N-S x 0.1m

Moderate mid yellowish brown silty clay 559 561 561 560 (10:90) with occasional charcoal flecks. Fill of F561 0.5m E-W x 0.42m N-S x 0.25m

Moderate mid reddish brown silty clay (20:80) with frequent burnt clay pieces & 560 561 559 558 Fill of F561 #131 charcoal flecks. 0.5m E-W x 0.19m N-S x 0.25m

Circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to 558 steep (80°) straight sides, breaking 561 559 NAT 559 Cut of posthole sharply to a concave base.0.54m N-S x 560 0.49m E?W x 0.39m

Moderate dark brownish yellow sandy silt. 562 119 563 17 Fill of F119 1.8m N-S x 0.31m E-W x 0.21m

Moderate dark greyish brown clayey silt 563 119 119 562 with v. occasional iron panning. 1.2m N-S Fill of F119 x 0.19m E-W x 0.16m

59 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact clayey silt, yellowish grey with 992 994 orange mottling, with occasional charcoal 564 568 565 Fill of F568 1005 flecks & small stones. 0.55m E-W x 0.27m N-S x 0.11m Compact grey silty clay with occasional 565 568 566 564 charcoal flecks. 0.55m E-W x 0.23m N-S x Fill of F568 0.11m Compact orangey grey clay with 566 568 567 565 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.55m E-W x Fill of F568 0.19m N-S x 0.07m Moderate yellowish brown clay with 567 568 568 566 occasional small stones. 0.3m E-W x Fill of F568 0.18m N-S x 0.05m

Linear cut, aligned E-W, sharp break of 442-4 slope at top to steep concave sides, 568 NAT 444 567 Cut of linear 564-7 breaking gradually to a concave base. 0.78m E-W x 0.32m N-S x 0.34

Moderate clayey silt, greyish brown with yellow mottling, with occasional charcoal 569 575 570 571 Fill of F575 pieces & burnt clay pieces. 0.4m NW-SE x 0.09m NE-SW x 0.11m Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 570 575 572 569 moderate charcoal pieces. 0.4m NW-SE x Fill of F575 0.17m NE-SW x 0.1m

Moderate light yellowish brown clayey silt 571 575 574 572 with occasional charcoal flecks. 0.4m Fill of F575 NW.SE x 0.12m NE/SE x 0.16m

Moderate dark brownish grey clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, burnt clay 572 575 571 573 570 Fill of F575 pieces & v. occasional small stones. 0.4m NW-SE x 0.2m NE-SW x 0.17m Moderate brown clayey silt with v. 573 575 575 572 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.15m NW-SE Fill of F575 x 0.12m NE-SW x 0.15m

60 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate yellowish brown clayey silt with 574 575 575 571 occasional iron panning. 0.08m NW-SE x Fill of F575 0.6m NE-SW x 0.07m Small circular cut, gradual break of slope at top to concave sides, breaking 575 569-74 NAT 573 574 Cut of posthole gradually to a concave base. 0.43m NE- SW x 0.4m NW-SE x 0.18m

Moderate light yellowish brown clayey silt 576 578 578 577 with occasional iron panning. 0.2m NW- Fill of F578 SE x 0.08m NE-SW x 0.11m

Moderate yellowish brown clayey silt with 577 578 576 4 occasional charcoal pieces. 0.2m NW-SE Fill of F578 x 0.1m NE-SW x 0.13m Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at 576 top to steep straight sides, breaking 578 NAT 576 Cut of posthole 577 gradually to a flat base. 0.2m diameter x 0.13m depth Moderate greyish brown silty clay with no 579 580 580 4 occasional small stone. 0.22m E-W x 0.2m Fill of F580 sample # N-S x 0.13m Small circular cut, gradual break of slope at top to concave sides, breaking 580 579 NAT 579 Cut of posthole gradually to a concave base. 0.2m diameter x 0.13m depth

Moderate dark brown silty clay. 0.3m no 581 582 582 4 Fill of F582 diameter x 0.14m depth sample #

Small circular cut, gradual break of slope at top to concave sides, breaking 582 581 NAT 581 Cut of posthole gradually to a concave base. 0.3m diameter x 0.14m depth

Moderate greyish brown clayey silt. 0.15m 583 584 584 4 Fill of F584 #17 diameter x 0.12m depth

61 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to straight steep sides, breaking 584 583 NAT 583 Cut of posthole gradually to a flat base. 0.15m diameter x 0.12m depth

Moderate dark greyish brown clayey silt 586 587 with moderate iron panning & v. 585 904 616 633 621 632 642 Fill of F904 occasional small stones. 15.8m E-W x 739 752 0.86m N-S x 0.1m

Moderate reddish brown clayey silt with 590 612 586 904 585 occasional small stones. 5.8m E-W x Fill of F904 620 0.57m N-S x 0.29m

Moderate dark brownish grey silty clay 588 589 587 904 585 with occasional small stones. 4.4m E?W x Fill of F904 755 756 0.38m N-S x 0.19m

Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 588 904 590 587 occasional small stones. 1.7m N-S x Fill of F904 0.22m E-W x 0.11m

Moderate clayey silt, greyish brown with 589 904 590 587 611 yellow mottling, with occasional small Fill of F904 stones. 1.7m E-W x 0.08m N-S x 0.1m

62 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

588-9 596 591 753 613 623 625- Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 590 904 1010 6 759 798 occasional small stones. 9.5m E-W x Fill of F904 1019 804 1020 0.46m N-S x 0.12m 1022

Moderate yellowish brown silty clay with 591 904 904 590 occasional small stones. 5.8m E-W x Fill of F904 0.43m N-S x 0.18m Moderate silty clay, light grey with orange 592 1025 169 168 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F1025 1.8m E-W x 0.5m N-S x 0.28m

Moderate silty clay, light brownish grey 593 1025 594 169 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F1025 stones. 3.2m E-W x 0.61m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate light yellowish brown clay with 594 1025 170 593 occasional small stones. 1.8m E-W x Fill of F1025 0.43m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate yellowish grey clayey silt with 595 1025 170 599 169 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F1025 2.2m E-W x 0.49m N-S x 0.31m

Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with 596 1025 1025 170 601 occasional small stones. 2.2m E-W x 1.0m Fill of F1025 N-S x 0.37m

Moderate brownish grey silty clay with 169 598 occasional small stones & v. occasional 597 1025 606 763 761 Fill of F1025 charcoal flecks. 6.8m E-W x 0.8m N-S x 779 0.38m

63 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay 598 1025 599 597 with occasional charcoal flecks & small Fill of F1025 stones. 1.8m E-W x 0.33m N-S x 0.2m

Moderate silty clay, grey with orange 600 602 599 1025 595 606 779 mottling, with occasional charcoal flecks. Fill of F1025 604 794 7.0m E-W x 1.13m N-S x 0.17m

Moderate silty clay, yellowish grey with brown mottling, with occasional charcoal 600 1025 601 603 599 Fill of F1025 flecks & small stones. 3.3m E-W x 1.07m N-S x 0.6m

Moderate dark orangey grey silty clay with occasional small stones & v. occasional 601 1025 596 600 Fill of F1025 charcoal flecks. 1.8m E-W x 0.4m N-S x 0.17m

Moderate clayey silt, mid greyish brown 602 1025 1025 599 with orange mottling, with frequent iron Fill of F1025 panning. 2.2m E-W x 0.26m N-S x 0.14m

Moderate dark greyish brown sandy silt 603 1025 1025 600 with occasional iron panning. 2.2m E-W x Fill of F1025 0.19m N-S x 0.15m Moderate sandy silt, mid grey with 604 1025 605 599 orangey mottling. 2.8m E-W x 0.39m N-S Fill of F1025 x 0.09m

Moderate sandy silt, dark grey with orange 605 1025 607 604 762 783 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F1025 2.8m E-W x 0.99m N-S x 0.11m

Moderate mid orangey grey sandy silt with 606 1025 599 762 597 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of F1025 0.93m N-S x 0.08m Moderate mid greyish orange sandy silt 607 1025 608 605 with occasional small stones. 2.0m E-W x Fill of F1025 0.25m N-S x 0.07m

64 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid brownish grey clayey silt 608 1025 1025 607 with occasional small stones. 2.0m E-W x Fill of F1025 0.29m N-S x 0.09m Loose dark black clayey silt with v. frequent charcoal flecks & pieces, v. #153 609 883 688 687 840 Fill of F883 occasional small stones. 2.51m NE-SW x #241 1.45m NW-SE x 0.11m Moderate dark black clayey silt with v. frequent charcoal flecks & pieces, 610 922 696 701 occasional burnt stone & v occasional Fill of F922 #155 small stones. 1.6m N-S x 0.37m E-W x 0.2m Moderate dark brown clayey silt. 2.6m E- 611 904 589 611 612 Fill of F904 W x 0.52m N-S x 0.14m

Moderate greyish brown silty clay. 1.6m E- 612 904 611 586 Fill of F904 W x 0.31m N-S x 0.11m

Moderate dark brown silty clay with 613 904 590 619 611 618 occasional small stones. 2.0m E-W x Fill of F904 0.36m N-S x 0.11m Moderate clayey silt, mid greyish brown with orange mottling, with v. occasional 614 904 617 620 Fill of F904 small stones. 2.8m E-W x 0.32m N-S x 0.09m Moderate yellowish brown silty clay with v. 615 904 619 616 occasional small stones. 2.4m E-W x Fill of F904 0.24m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate mid brownish grey silty clay with 615 624 616 904 585 v. occasional small stones. 8.25m E-W x Fill of F904 627 629 0.43m N-S x 0.22m

Moderate light greyish brown clayey silt 617 904 618 614 with occasional small stones. 2.4m E-W x Fill of F904 0.25m N-S x 0.09m

65 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact greyish brown silty clay with 618 904 613 617 occasional small stones. 1.4m E-W x Fill of F904 0.43m N-S x 0.33m

Moderate clayey silt, grey with orange 619 904 904 613 615 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F904 2.4m E-W x 0.31m N-S x 0.14m

Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 620 904 614 586 occasional small stones. 1.4m E-W x Fill of F904 0.21m N-S x 0.11m Soft orangey brown silty clay with 621 904 585 4 occasional small stones. 1.4m E-W x Fill of F904 0.71m N-S x 0.06m Moderate light brown clayey silt with 622 904 623 626 627 occasional small stones. 3.0m E-W x Fill of F904 0.25m N-S x 0.07m Soft dark brown clayey silt with occasional 623 904 590 622 iron panning. 1.4m E-W x 0.16m N-S x Fill of F904 0.07m Moderate light yellowish grey clayey silt 624 904 625 616 with occasional small stones. 1.6m E-W x Fill of F904 0.41m N-S x 0.18m Moderate brownish grey silty clay with 625 904 590 628 624 630 occasional iron panning. 3.8m E-W x Fill of F904 0.26m N-S x 0.08m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay 622 628 634 626 904 590 with occasional iron panning. 1.6m E-W x Fill of F904 638 0.25 N-S x 0.13m

Moderate mid brown clayey silt with 627 904 622 616 occasional iron panning. 1.6m E-W x Fill of F904 0.19m N-S x 0.13m Moderate mid grey clayey silt with 628 904 626 625 633 occasional iron panning. 1.6m E-W x Fill of F904 0.13m N-S x 0.08m

66 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate brownish grey silty clay with 629 904 630 616 635-7 occasional small stones. 9.4m E-W x Fill of F904 0.72m N-S x 0.29m

Compact silty clay, brownish grey with 625 631 630 904 629 yellow mottling. 5.0m E-W x 0.53m N-S x Fill of F904 634 0.25m

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 631 904 629 630 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F904 1.6m E-W x 0.3m N-S x 0.28m

Loose clayey silt, mid greyish brown with 632 904 585 4 orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F904 stones. 6.0m E-W x 0.77m N-S x 0.1m

Compact yellowish brown clayey silt with 628 635 633 904 585 occasional small stones. 9.5m E-W x Fill of F904 636 0.46m N-S x 0.2m

Loose mid brownish grey sandy clay 634 904 626 630 (10:90) with occasional small stones. 1.5m Fill of F904 E-W x 0.25m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate light yellowish grey clayey silt 635 904 629 633 with v. occasional small stones. 5.8m E-W Fill of F904 x 0.45m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate light brown clayey silt with 636 904 629 633 739 occasional small stones. 4.9m E-W x Fill of F904 0.34m N-S x 0.16m

Soft greyish brown clayey silt. 1.64m E-W 637 904 638 629 Fill of F904 x 0.34m N-S x 0.09m

67 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 638 904 626 637 occasional small stones. 2.1m E-W x Fill of F904 0.23m N-S x 0.08m Moderate dark greyish brown clayey silt 639 904 640 4 with occasional small stones. 1.64m E-W Fill of F904 x 0.59m N-S x 0.09m Moderate mid greyish brown clayey silt 640 904 641 639 with occasional small stones. 1.64m E-W Fill of F904 x 0.55m N-S x 0.17m

Moderate dark greyish brown silty clay. 641 904 642 640 Fill of F904 1.64m E-W x 0.44m N-S x 0.23m

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt. 1.64m 642 904 585 641 Fill of F904 E-W x 0.21m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate brown clayey silt with v. 643 904 633 636 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x 0.2m Fill of F904 N-S x 0.13m

Medium light greyish brown silty clay with 644 921 645 646 4 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F921 #138 2.26m E-W x 2.2m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate dark grey silty clay with 645 921 648 644 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F921 #132 1.34m E-W x 0.84m N-S x 0.11m

Moderate light greyish brown silty clay 646 921 647 644 with occasional small stones & charcoal Fill of F921 #133 flecks. 0.64m E-W x 0.84m N-S x 0.07m

Moderate light grey silty clay with 647 921 648 649 646 occasional small stones. 0.8m N-S x Fill of F921 #134 0.55m E-W x 0.1m Moderate light grey silty clay with 648 921 650 645 647 occasional small stones. 0.8m N-S x Fill of F921 #135 0.37m E-W x 0.12m

68 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light grey silty clay with 649 921 650 647 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.8m N-S x Fill of F921 #136 0.26m E-W x 0.16m

Moderate silty clay, light gray with orange 650 921 921 648 649 Fill of F921 #137 mottling, 0.8m N-S x 0.61m E-W x 0.08m

651 Cancelled. Same as F921

Loose mid reddish brown silty clay with occasional burnt bone fragments, charcoal 652 679 678 677 Fill of F679 Flint flake #142 flecks & small stones. 0.33m E-W x 0.28m N-S x 0.07m Moderate mid brown silty clay with 653 765 765 4 occasional small stones. 10.0m E-W x Fill of F765 0.31m N-S x 0.07m 654- Cancelled 61 Moderate silty clay, grey with yellow no 662 665 663 4 Fill of F665 mottling, 0.32m N-S x 0.3m E-W x 0.08m sample #

Moderate dark grey silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks & occasional no 663 665 664 662 Fill of F665 burnt clay pieces. 0.3m diameter x 0.3m sample # depth Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with v. no 664 665 665 663 occasional small stones. 0.3m diameter x Fill of F665 sample # 0.4m depth Small circular cut, sharp break of slope at 662 top to steep sides, breaking sharply to a 665 663 NAT 664 Cut of posthole concave base. 0.3m diameter x 0.24m 664 depth Moderate mid brown silty clay with 666 764 764 4 occasional small stones. 3.7m NW-SE x Fill of 764 0.46m NE-SW x 0.08m 667- Cancelled 76

69 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact mid orangey brown silty clay with v. occasional charcoal flecks & burnt bone 677 679 652 4 Fill of F679 #144 fragments. 0.4m N-S x 0.29m E-W x 0.05m

Compact red burnt clay with occasional 678 679 679 652 charcoal flecks & burnt bone fragments. Fill of F679 #145 0.77m E-W x 0.62m N-S x 0.5m

Small oval pit, oriented NW-SE, sharp 652 break of slope at top to concave sides, 679 677 NAT 678 Cut of pit breaking gradually to a concave base. 678 0.83m E-W x 0.6m N-S x 0.12m Moderate mid brown silty clay with 680 767 767 4 occasional small stones. 0.55m E-W x Fill of F767 0.09m depth Moderate mid brown silty clay. 0.29m NW- 681 766 766 4 Fill of F766 SE x 0.05m 682- Cancelled 5 Moderate clayey silt, mid brown with grey mottling, with occasional charcoal flecks & 686 883 687 4 Fill of F883 #148 v. occasional small stones. 1.79m NE-SW x 1.2m NW-SE x 0.14m

Moderate clayey silt, mid brown with grey mottling, with moderate charcoal flecks & 687 883 609 686 Fill of F883 #149 v. occasional small stones. 2.43m NE-SW x 1.2m NW-SE x 0.08m

Moderate yellowish brown silty clay with v. Quartz 688 883 689 609 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F883 #150 stone 1.21m NE-SW x 1.2m NW-SE x 0.1m

Moderate silty clay, light yellowish brown with orange mottling, with occasional small 689 883 690 688 Fill of F883 #151 stones & v. occasional charcoal flecks. 3.0m NE-SW x 2.4m NW-SE x 0.14m

70 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate clayey silt, dark brown with grey 690 883 883 689 mottling, occasional small stones & v. Fill of F883 #152 occasional charcoal flecks. Moderate dark yellowish grey silty clay 691 993 300 346 299 with occasional small stones. 4.3m NW- Fill of F993 SE x 0.85m NE-SW x 0.15m

Moderate mid brown silty clay. 2.7m E-W 692 900 236 277 Fill of F900 x 0.15m N-S x 0.1m

Moderate dark black clayey silt with v. frequent charcoal flecks & pieces & 693 922 700 4 Fill of F922 occasional small stones. 1.2m NW-SE x 0.96m NE-SW x 0.18m

Moderate clayey silt, dark black with orangey grey mottling, with occasional 694 922 698 4 Fill of F922 small stones. 1.0m NW-SE x 0.22m NE- SW x 0.05m

Moderate clayey silt, dark black with orangey grey mottling, with occasional 695 922 697 4 Fill of F922 small stones. 0.4m NW-SE x 0.21m NE- SW x 0.05m

Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks & v. occasional 696 922 922 610 697 Fill of F922 small stones. 2.4m N-S x 0.3m E-W x 0.08m

Moderate light orange clayey silt with 697 922 696 695 699 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F922 0.49m NE-SW x 0.4m NW-SE x 0.19m

Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with v. 698 922 699 694 occasional small stones. 1.0m N-S x Fill of F922 0.39m NE-SW x 0.06m Moderate orangey brown clay silt with 699 922 697 700 698 occasional small stones. 1.0m NW-SE x Fill of F922 0.28m NE-SW x 0.11m

71 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate dark orangey brown clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks & small 700 922 922 693 699 Fill of F922 stones. 1.0m NW-SE x 0.94m NE-SW x 0.15m

Moderate light orangey grey clayey silt 701 922 610 4 with v. occasional small stones & charcoal Fill of F922 flecks. 1.6m N-S x 0.14m E-W x 0.09m

Moderate orange silty clay with occasional 702 992 14 401 small stones. 3.4m E-W x 0.25m N-S x Fill of F992 0.25m

Moderate silty clay, orange with light grey 703 992 704 402 1011 Fill of F992 mottling. 4.6m E-W x 0.27m N-S x 0.26m

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 704 992 15 703 occasional small stones. 3.4m E-W x Fill of F992 0.48m N-S x 0.18m

Moderate silty clay, light grey with orange 705 992 992 15 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F992 4.6m E-W x 0.46m N-S x 0.24m

Linear cut, aligned E-W, heavily truncated 437-9 by F992. Sharp break of slope at top to 706 525-8 NAT 527 528 Cut of linear steep sides, breaking sharply to a flat 735-6 base. 0.4m E-W x 1.0m N-S x 0.34m

Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 707 714 714 900 992 occasional small stones. 0.5m NE-SW x Fill of F714 0.2m depth

Moderate orangey grey clayey silt with 708 713 709 4 Fill of F713 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks.

Moderate clayey silt, light grey with orange 709 713 713 708 Fill of F713 mottling. 0.93m NE-SW x 0.23m depth

72 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact clay, light greyish brown with 710 1025 711 713 714 orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F1025 stones. 0.2m NE-SW x 0.14m

Compact greyish orange clay with 711 1025 712 710 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F1025 2.0m NW-SE x 0.97m NE-SW x 0.21m

Compact light grey clay with moderate 712 1025 1025 711 small stones & occasional charcoal flecks. Fill of F1025 2.0m NW-SE x 0.66m NE-SW x 0.13m

Sub-circular cut, sharp break of slope at 708 top to steep convex sides, breaking 713 710 709 Cut of pit 709 gradually to a concave base. 0.98m NE- SW x 0.23m depth

Sub-circular cut, gradual break of slope at top to gently sloping sides, breaking 714 707 710 707 Cut of pit gradually to a concave base. 0.5m NE-SW x 0.2m depth 715- Non archaeological 6 Compact clayey silt, mid brownish grey with orange mottling, with occasional 717 750 748 4 Fill of F750 charcoal flecks & small stones. 2.12m E- W x 1.7m N-S x 0.3m

Moderate yellowish grey silty clay with no 718 721 719 388 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F721 sample # 1.56m N-S x 0.4m E-W x 0.15m

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks, occasional no 719 721 721 718 Fill of F721 small stones & iron panning. 1.56m N-S x sample # 0.35m E-W x 0.1m

73 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, burnt clay no 720 721 721 718 Fill of F721 1 x A6 pieces & small stones. 1.3m N-S x 0.34m sample # E-W x 0.1m

Linear cut, aligned N-S, sharp break of slope at top to steep straight sides, 721 718 NAT 719 720 Cut of linear breaking gradually to a concave base. 1.56m N-S x 0.42m E-W x 0.32m

Moderate mid brown silty clay with v. 722 721 Nat 4 Fill of drain frequent small stones. 0.25m E-W

Moderate light brownish grey silty clay 723 768 768 4 with v. occasional small stones. 0.7m NW- Fill of 768 SE x 0.46m NE-SW x 0.06m

724- Cancelled 8 Moderate light yellowish brown silty clay 729 881 881 4 with occasional small stones. 0.4, E-W x Fill of F881 0.08m depth 730- Cancelled 4 Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 735 706 736 438 occasional small stones. 0.4m E-W x Fill of F706 0.22m N-S x 0.04m

Moderate orangey yellowish grey silty clay 736 706 439 735 with occasional small stones. 0.48m N-S x Fill of F706 0.4m E-W x 0.11m

Moderate clay, greyish brown with orange mottling, with occasional charcoal flecks & 737 992 738 744 746 Fill of F992 small stones. 4.2m E-W x 0.98m N-S x 0.24m

Moderate brownish grey silty clay with 738 992 747 737 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F992 4.2m E-W x 0.82m N-S x 0.18m

74 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 739 904 636 585 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of F904 0.44m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate light grey silty clay with 740 900 741 806 occasional charcoal flecks & burnt clay Fill of F900 pieces. 3.6m E-W x 0.64m N-S x 0.15m

Moderate brownish grey silty clay. 6.0m E- 741 900 742 740 Fill of F900 W x 0.48m N-S x 0.08m

Moderate silty clay, light grey with orange 895 896 742 900 741 894 899 mottling, with occasional small stones. Fill of F900 1008 23.5m E-W x 0.62m N-S x 0.16m

Loose brownish grey silty clay with 1013 743 992 4 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F992 1032 32.0m E-W x 0.54m N-S x 0.06m Loose light brownish grey clayey silt with 744 992 737 401 occasional small stones. 4.2m E-W x Fill of F992 0.17m N-S x 0.13m Moderate silty clay, mid greyish brown 746 with orange mottling, with occasional 745 992 401 Fill of F992 1009 charcoal flecks & small stones. 4.2m E-W x 0.32m NE-SW x 0.15m

Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with 746 992 427 737 745 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of F992 4.2m E-W x 0.55m N-S x 0.16m

Moderate orangey grey clay with 747 992 402 738 1009 occasional charcoal flecks & small stones. Fill of F992 4.2m E-W x 0.67m N-S x 0.19m

Compact mid grey silty clay with frequent 748 750 882 717 Fill of F750 #156 charcoal. 1.7m N-S x 1.7m E-W x 0.12m

749 Non archaeological

75 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Irregular oval cut, oriented E-W, gradual 717 break of slope at top to irregular concave 750 NAT 882 Cut of pit 748 sides, breaking gradually to an irregular base. 2.5m E-W x 1.7m N-S x 0.55m

751 Non archaeological Fill of 904 Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 752 904 753 587 occasional angular stones. 1.5m E-W x Fill of 904 0.23m N-S x 0.11m Moderate reddish brown clayey silt with 753 904 590 752 occasional small stones. 1.5m E-W x Fill of 904 0.27m N-S x 0.19m

Moderate light yellowish grey silty clay 754 904 757 759 755 756 with v. occasional small stones. 3.4m E-W Fill of 904 x 0.71m N-S x 0.09m

Moderate silty clay, yellowish grey with brown mottling, with occasional small 755 904 754 587 Fill of 904 stones & v. occasional charcoal flecks. 2.8m E-W x 0.57m N-S x 0.1m

Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 756 904 754 587 occasional small stones & charcoal flecks. Fill of 904 1.6m E-W x 0.23m N-S x 0.11m

Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with Flint 757 904 758 754 occasional small stones. 2.8m E-W x Fill of 904 debitage 0.26m N-S x 0.16m Moderate orangey brown clayey silt with 758 904 904 757 occasional small stones. 1.6m E-W x Fill of 904 0.17m N-S x 0.12m Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt 759 904 590 754 with occasional small stones. 1.2m E-W x Fill of 904 0.39m N-S x 0.31m

76 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Sub-circular cut, sharp break of slope at top to steep vertical sides, breaking 760 543-7 NAT 547 gradually to a flat base. Truncated by Cut of pit F905 & F900. 0.62m E-W x 0.4m N-S x 0.3m

Moderate light orangey grey clayey silt 597 784 761 1025 4 with occasional small stones. 9.4m NE- Fill of F1025 Flint flake 801 SW x 0.69m NW-SE x 0.09m

Moderate light brownish grey clayey silt 762 1025 605 606 794 with occasional small stones. 4.0m NW- Fill of F1025 SE x 0.26m NE-SW x 0.09m Moderate clayey silt, greyish brown with orange mottling, with occasional small 763 1025 783 775 597 Fill of F1025 stones. 2.5m NW-SE x 0.55m NE-SW x 0.23m

Linear cut, aligned NW-SE, sharp break of slope at top to steep sides, breaking 764 666 NAT 666 Cut of furrow gradually to a flat base. 3.7m NW-SE x 0.46m NE-SW x 0.08m

Linear cut, aligned E-W, sharp break of slope at top to steep sides, breaking 765 653 NAT 653 Cut of furrow gradually to a flat base. 10.0m E-W x 0.31m N-S x 0.07m

Linear cut aligned NE-SW, sharp break of slope at top to steep sides, breaking 766 681 NAT 681 Cut of furrow gradually to a flat base. 0.29m NW-SE x 0.05m depth

Linear cut, aligned NW-SE, sharp break of slope at top to steep sides, breaking 767 680 NAT 680 Cut of furrow gradually to a flat base. 0.55m NE-SW x 0.08m depth

77 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Linear cut, aligned NW-SE, sharp break of slope at top to steep sides, breaking 768 723 NAT 723 Cut of furrow gradually to a flat base. 0.7m NW-SE x 0.38m NE-SW x 0.07m

769 Cancelled Moderate mid brown silty clay with 770 888 888 4 occasional small stones. 0.42m E-W x Fill of F888 0.09m depth 771 Cancelled Moderate mid brown silty clay with 772 879 879 4 occasional small stones. 0.7m width x Fill of F879 0.07m depth 773 Cancelled Moderate mid brown silty clay with 774 880 880 4 moderate small stones. 0.55m E-W x Fill of F880 0.08m depth Moderate greyish brown clayey silt with 775 1025 776 763 occasional small stones. 1.6m NW-SE x Fill of F1025 0.74m NE-SW x 0.1m Moderate clayey silt, mid greyish brown with orange mottling, with occasional small 776 1025 777 775 Fill of F1025 stones. 1.6m NW-SE x 0.71m NE-SW x 0.23m Moderate brownish grey clayey silt with 777 1025 1025 776 occasional small stones. 1.6m NW-SE x Fill of F1025 0.51m NE-SW x 0.21m 179 Linear cut, aligned N-S, gradual break of 180 slope at top to gently sloping sides, Cut of linear / 778 NAT 182 181 breaking gradually to a flat base. 1.7m N- elongated pit 182 S x 0.6m E-W x 0.22m Compact light orangey brown sandy clay 779 1025 599 597 with occasional small stones. 1.5m N-S x Fill of F1025 0.6m E-W x 0.25m Moderate sandy clay, greyish brown with 780 1025 781 784 orange mottling, with occasional charcoal Fill of F1025 flecks & small stones.

78 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate silty clay, light brownish grey 781 1025 782 780 with orange mottling. 2.0m N-S x .54m E- Fill of F1025 W x 0.12m Moderate silty clay, light brownish grey with orange mottling, with occasional 782 1025 1025 781 Fill of F1025 charcoal flecks. 1.5m N-S x 0.52m E-W x 0.19m

Moderate dark yellowish grey clayey silt. 783 1025 1025 605 763 Fill of F1025 2.5m NW-SE x 0.4m NE-SW x 0.09m

Moderate light brownish orange sandy 784 1025 780 807 761 803 clay with occasional small stones. 7.6m N- Fill of F1025 S x 0.82m E-W x 0.23m

Compact clayey silt, light grey with brown 785 995 995 847 mottling, with small stones. 1.3m E-W x Fill of F995 0.47m N-S x 0.1m Soft grey sandy silt. 1.5m N-S x 0.65m E- 786 1025 1025 762 Fill of F1025 W x 0.22m

Moderate clayey silt, yellowish grey with 788 795 787 906 1025 orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F906 799 800 stones. 2.6m N-S x 1.56m E-W x 0.13m

Moderate silty clay, light greyish brown 788 906 789 787 with orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F906 stones. 2.1m N-S x 0.41m E-W x 0.14m

Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 789 906 790 788 occasional small stones. 1.1m N-S x Fill of F906 0.61m E-W x 0.1m Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 790 906 791 789 occasional small stones. 1.1m N-S x Fill of F906 0.49m E-W x 0.12m

Moderate sandy clay, dark grey with 791 906 792 790 799 orange mottling, with occasional small Fill of F906 stones. 2.1m N-S x 1.41m E-W x 0.26m

79 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light orangey grey clayey silt 792 906 906 791 796 800 with occasional small stones. 2.6m E-W x Fill of F906 2.11m N-S x 0.47m

V. compact light orangey grey clayey silt 793 1025 1025 127 with occasional iron panning. 1.0m N-S x Fill of F1025 0.22m E-W x 0.19m

Compact light greyish brown clay with 794 1025 762 599 occasional small stones. 1.5m N-S x Fill of F1025 0.56m E-W x 0.2m Moderate light grey clayey silt with v. 795 906 796 787 occasional small stones. 1.46m N-S x Fill of F906 0.16m E-W x 0.07m Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 796 906 792 795 occasional small stones. 1.46m N-S x Fill of F906 0.61m E-W x 0.1m Moderate greyish orange clayey silt with 797 1025 221 125 occasional small stones. 1.0m N-S x Fill of F1025 0.21m E-W x 0.2m Moderate light orangey grey silty clay with 798 1025 590 799 occasional small stones. 1.5m N-S x Fill of F1025 0.67m E-W x 0.19m Moderate orangey grey silty clay with 799 906 791 787 occasional small stones. 1.46m N-S x Fill of F906 0.27m E-W x 0.09m Moderate grey with orange mottling, silty clay with occasional pebbles, iron 800 906 792 787 panning, decayed limestone and Fill of F906 sandstone and stones. 1.50m x 0.28m x 0.09m Moderate orange-grey, silty clay with 801 1025 802 808 761 occasional iron flecks and pebbles. 8m x Fill of F1025 0.50m x 0.13m Moderate mid-grey with orange mottling, 802 1025 803 801 silty clay with occasional iron flecks. Fill of F1025 1.50m x 0.47m x 0.10m

80 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate light-orange-grey, silty clay with 803 1025 784 805 802 occasional decayed limestone and Fill of F1025 pebbles. 1.00-2.00m x 0.54m x 0.40m

Moderate light-greyish-brown with orange 804 1025 590 805 mottling, silty clay with occasional iron Fill of F1025 panning. 5.00m x 0.37m x 0.18m

Moderate mid-orangey-grey, silty clay with 805 1025 804 803 809 occasional iron panning and decayed Fill of F1025 limestone. 1.00-3.20m x 0.42m x 0.35m

Compact yellowish-brown, silty clay with 806 900 740 894 4 occasional iron panning and pebbles. Fill of F900 15.50m x 0.39m x 0.10m Compact mid-orange-grey, silty clay with occasional iron flecks and decayed 807 1025 1025 784 Fill of F1025 limestone and sandstones. 1.50m x 0.37m x 0.18m

Compact orange-grey, silty clay with 808 1025 1031 801 occasional stones and decayed limestone Fill of F1025 and sandstones. 4.00m x 0.11m x 0.33m

Compact orange-grey, silty clay with occasional iron flecks, charcoal flecks, 809 1025 805 810 Fill of F1025 decayed sandstone and limestone and stones. 4.00m x 0.99m x 0.52m

Compact orange-grey, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, stones, 810 1025 809 1031 Fill of F1025 decayed stones, and iron panning. 5.80m x 1.00m x 0.04m 811- Non archaeological 2

81 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid-brownish-grey with orange mottling, silty clay with occasional 813 995 814 4 charcoal flecks, iron flecks, decayed Fill of F995 limestone, and pebbles. 4.00m x 0.47m x 0.10m

Compact mid-grey with orange mottling, silt clay with occasional charcoal flecks, 814 995 841 813 Fill of F995 decayed stones, iron flecks and pebbles. 4.00m x 0.56m x 0.16m

Compact light-brownish-grey with orange mottling, clayey silt with sand inclusions, 815 1006 816 995 occasional iron panning, decayed Fill of F1006 sandstones and limestone and pebbles. 2.00m x 1.04m x 0.28m

Moderately compact, mid-greyish-orange, clayey silt with occasional iron panning, 816 1006 817 815 Fill of F1006 decayed stones and pebbles. 2.00m x 0.43m x 0.10m

Compact mid-orange-grey, clayey silt with occasional iron panning, stones and 817 1006 819 816 Fill of F1006 decayed sandstones. 2.00m x 1.03m x 0.38m

Loose dark-brownish-grey, clayey silt with sand inclusions and occasional iron 818 1006 820 819 Fill of F1006 panning and decayed sandstones and limestone

Compact mid-orange with light-grey mottling, clayey silt with decayed 819 1006 818 817 Fill of F1006 sandstones and limestone and stones. 2.00m x 0.55m x 0.43m

82 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid-grey with dark-orange mottling, silty clay with sand inclusions 820 1006 821 818 828 832 and occasional decayed limestone and Fill of F1006 mudstones, stones and charcoal flecks. 3.00m x 0.55m x 0.13m

Compact brownish-grey, clayey silt with 869 822 820 827 834 occasional decayed sandstones, 821 1006 Fill of F1006 829 836 limestone and mudstones, stones, and iron panning. 4.00m x 0.70m x 0.28m

Moderately light-greyish-orange, silty clay with occasional stones, iron panning and 822 1006 823 821 Fill of F1006 decayed sandstones. 2.00m x 0.45m x 0.17m

Compact light-brownish-grey, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron 823 1006 1006 822 841 829 Fill of F1006 panning and stones. 4.00m x 0.77m x 0.22m

Moderate brownish-grey, clayey silt with 824 1006 825 852 12 occasional decayed sandstones, iron Fill of F1006 flecks and stones. 4.50m x 0.74m x 0.10m

Moderate greyish-yellow, silty clay with 825 1006 826 824 occasional iron flecks, charcoal flecks and Fill of F1006 stones. 4.50m x 0.86m x 0.20m

Compact grey with orangey-brown mottling, silty clay with occasional iron 826 1006 853 825 panning, charcoal flecks, stones and Fill of F1006 decayed sandstones and limestone. 4.50m x 1.15m x 0.25m

83 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate greyish-brown, silty clay with 821 830 iron panning, occasional decayed 827 1006 835 Fill of F1006 833 sandstones and stones. 3.00m x 0.71m x 0.35m

Moderate dark-grey, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, decayed 828 1006 820 830 Fill of F1006 mudstones and limestone, and stones. 2.00m x 0.55m x 0.14m

Moderate mid-orangey-grey, clayey silt with occasional stones, decayed 829 1006 823 821 Fill of F1006 sandstones and limestone and stones. 2.00m x 0.50m x 0.42m

Moderate mid-orange with grey mottling, clayey silt with occasional decayed 830 1006 831 827 Fill of F1006 limestone and sandstones, iron flecks and stones. 2.00m x 0.76m x 0.29m Compact greyish-brown with orange 831 853 mottling, clayey silt with occasional 831 1006 854 830 decayed sandstones and limestone, iron Fill of F1006 1054 panning and stones. 4.50m x 0.50m x 0.42m Compact dark-orange with grey mottling, clayey silt with occasional decayed 832 1006 820 831 Fill of F1006 limestone and mudstones, stones and iron flecks. 2.00m x 0.39m x 0.19m Moderate dark-orange with light-grey mottling, silty clay with occasional 833 1006 834 827 decayed limestone and mudstones, Fill of F1006 stones and iron flecks. 2.00m x 0.33m x 0.20m Moderate mid-orange with grey mottling, silty clay with occasional iron flecks, 834 1006 821 833 decayed sandstones, limestone and Fill of F1006 mudstones, and stones. 2.00m x 0.31m x 0.12m

84 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact light-yellowish-grey, clayey silt with iron panning and occasional decayed 835 1006 836 827 Fill of F1006 stones and stones. 1.80m x 0.35m x 0.18m

Compact orange-brown, clayey silt with occasional decayed sandstones, iron 836 1006 821 835 Fill of F1006 panning and stones. 1.80m x 0.30m x 0.15m

837 Not allocated

Moderate mid-brown, clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, decayed Flint blade 838 883 839 4 Fill of F883 #147 limestone and stones. 2.28m x 0.29m x fragment 0.13m

Moderate mid-greyish-brown, clay silt with 839 883 840 838 occasional charcoal flecks, iron panning Fill of F883 #146 and stones. 2.31m x 0.23m x 0.17m

Moderate brownish-grey, silty clay with 840 883 609 839 occasional charcoal flecks and stones. Fill of F883 #154 0.46m x 0.17m x 0.12m Compact dark-grey, silty clay with 841 1006 823 814 moderate charcoal flecks and occasional Fill of F1006 stones. 1.80m x 0.37m x 0.12m

Compact light-grey with yellow mottling, 842 994 531 532 silty clay with occasional iron flecks and Fill of F994 pebbles. 2.00m x 0.14m x 0.06m

Moderate yellowish-grey, clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, iron panning, 843 995 995 841 Fill of F995 stones, and decayed limestone and sandstones. 2.00m x 0.45m x 0.16m

Compact greyish-orange, clayey silt with occasional stones, charcoal flecks, 844 994 994 845 Fill of F994 pebbles and iron panning. 2.60m x 0.13m x0.12m

85 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderately compact, brownish-grey, silty clay with occasional stones, decayed 845 994 844 846 1047 Fill of F994 limestone and sandstones, pebbles, and iron panning. 2.60m x 0.17m x 0.12m

Compact orangey-grey, silty clay with 846 994 994 845 occasional stones, decayed limestone and Fill of F994 iron panning. 2.00m x 0.16m x 0.20m

Moderate light-brownish-grey, clayey silt 847 995 785 Nat with occasional iron flecks and stones. Fill of F995 1.00m x 0.78m x 0.13m

Compact light-orangey-grey, silty clay with occasional iron panning and decayed 848 907 851 850 Fill of F907 limestone and sandstones. 2.00m x 0.54m x 0.31m

Compact orange with grey mottling, silty clay with occasional iron panning, stones 849 907 323 851 Fill of F907 and decayed sandstones. 2.00m x 0.51m x 0.49m

Compact light-orangey-grey, silty clay with occasional iron panning, stones and 850 907 848 302 Fill of F907 decayed sandstones. 1.00m x 0.59m x 0.15m

Compact light-orangey-grey, silty clay with occasional decayed sandstones and 851 907 849 848 Fill of F907 limestones and pebbles. 1.00m x 0.23m x 0.26m

Moderately compact, light-greyish-yellow, clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, 852 1006 Nat 824 Fill of F1006 iron flecks and stones. 2.60m x 0.85m x 0.18m

86 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact light-orangey-grey, clayey silt with occasional stones, decayed 853 1006 862 831 Fill of F1006 limestone, iron panning, and stones. 2.60m x 0.56m x 0.49m

Compact grey with orange mottling, silty clay with occasional decayed sandstones 854 1006 855 831 Fill of F1006 and limestone, iron panning, stones and pebbles. 2.60m x 0.40m x 0.20m

Compact mid-greyish-brown, silty clay with 865 866 occasional charcoal flecks, decayed 855 1006 854 Fill of F1006 867 limestone and sandstones, iron panning and stones. 2.60m x 0.59m x 0.20m Moderate mid-dark-brown, silty sand with 856 861 857 860 4 occasional stones and charcoal inclusions. Fill of F861 1.40m x 1.10m x 0.15m Compact light-brown-yellow, sandy silt 857 861 858 856 with occasional charcoal. 1.60m x 0.75m x Fill of F861 0.11m

Compact black and red mottled, clayey silt 858 861 859 857 869 with frequent charcoal, moderate heat- Fill of F861 shattered stones. 1.60m x 0.80m x 0.06m

Compact red, silty clay. 1.60m x 0.80m x 859 861 861 858 Fill of F861 0.06m Moderate light-brown, silty sand. 1.60m x 860 861 861 856 Fill of F861 0.30m x 0.08m

Figure-of-eight-shaped cut (1.60m x 1.10m x 0.26m) with a gradual break of 861 856-60 NAT 859 860 Cut of possible hearth slope, steep sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a concave base Compact light-greyish-brown, silty clay 862 1006 863 853 with occasional iron panning and stones. Fill of F1006 0.32m width x 0.23m depth

87 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate dark-grey, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, stones, 863 1006 864 862 Fill of F1006 decayed stones and iron flecks. 1.80m x 0.20m x 0.12m

Compact dark-grey with yellow mottling, silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks 864 1006 865 863 Fill of F1006 and occasional iron flecks and stones. 0.46m width x 0.20m depth

Moderate mid-grey, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, decayed 865 1006 868 855 864 Fill of F1006 sandstones and limestone, and stones. 2.60m x 0.50m x 0.22m

Compact greyish-brown with orange- mottling, silty clay with decayed 866 1006 1006 855 Fill of F1006 sandstones, iron panning and stones. 2.60m x 0.28m x 0.27m

Moderate dark-greyish-brown, silty clay with occasional stones, decayed limestone 867 1006 1006 855 Fill of F1006 and charcoal flecks. 2.60m x 0.22m x 0.15m Compact dark-grey, silty clay with 868 1006 1006 865 moderate charcoal flecks and occasional Fill of F1006 #166 stones. 2.60m x 0.45m x 0.13m Compact dark-greyish-orange, silty clay 858 with occasional decayed stones, iron 869 1006 821 Fill of F1006 1054 panning and stones. 1.80m x 0.40m x 0.17m 870- Not allocated 1

Moderately compact, mid-brown, silty clay 872 885 885 4 with occasional charcoal and moderate Fill of F885 stones. 0.46m x 0.11m

873 Not allocated

88 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate mid-brown, silty clay with 874 886 886 4 occasional stones. 0.47m width x 0.05m Fill of F 886 depth

Loose mid-greyish-brown, silty clay with 875 N/A NAT 4 Spread charcoal. 1.30m x 0.80m x 0.03-0.05m

Moderate mod-brown, silty clay with 876 887 887 4 occasional stones. 0.60m width x 0.06m Fill of F887 depth

Compact light-blue-yellowish-grey, silty 877 908 908 4 clay with stones and occasional decayed Fill of F908 stones. 0.60m width x 0.19m depth

878 Not allocated

Linear northwest-southeast cut (0.70m width 0.07m depth) with an imperceptible 879 772 NAT 772 break of slope, concave sides and an Cut of furrow imperceptible break of slope leading to a convex base

Linear north-south cut (0.55m x width x 0.08m depth) with an imperceptible-sharp 880 774 NAT 774 break of slope, gently sloping sides and Cut of furrow an imperceptible-gradual break of slope leading to a flat base

Linear north-south cut (0.28-0.40m width x 0.08m depth) with a sharp break of slope, 881 729 NAT 729 Cut of furrow steep sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a flat base

Compact light-orangey-grey, clayey silt 882 750 750 748 with occasional sand, charcoal and Fill of F750 decayed stones. 2.50m x 1.70m x 0.18m

89 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Figure-of-eight, northeast-southwest cut 609 (0.55m depth) with a sharp break of slope, 883 686-90 NAT 690 steep sides (gradual in west) and a sharp Cut of kiln 838-40 break of slope (gradual in west) leading to a concave base

Moderate brownish-grey, silty clay with no 884 997 1027 1026 occasional charcoal flecks and decayed Fill of F997 sample # stones. 1.13m x 0.86m x 0.16m

Linear north-south cut (0.46m x width x 0.11m depth) with an imperceptible- 885 872 NAT 872 gradual break of slope, gentle-steep sides Cut of furrow and an imperceptible break of slope leading to an undulating base

Linear north-south cut (0.47m x 0.05m depth0 with an imperceptible break of 886 874 NAT 874 slope, gently sloping sides and an Cut of furrow imperceptible break of slope leading to a rounded base

Linear north-south cut (0.60m width x 0.06m depth) with an imperceptible break 887 876 NAT 876 of slope, gently sloping sides and an Cut of furrow imperceptible break of slope leading to an undulating base

Linear north-south cut (0.42m width x 0.09m depth) with a gradual break of 888 770 NAT 770 Cut of furrow slope, gently sloping sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a rounded base

Moderate dark-brown, black, silty sand with moderate charcoal flecks and 889 891 890 4 Fill of F891 occasional pebbles. 0.23m x 0.16m x0.13m Moderate pink-red, clayey sand with 890 891 891 889 occasional charcoal. 0.23m x 0.10m x Fill of F891 0.10m

90 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

sub-circular, north-south cut (0.23m x 889 0.16m x 0.15m) with a sharp break of 891 NAT 890 Cut of posthole 890 slope, steep sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a concave base Loose dark-brown, silty clay with 892 893 893 4 occasional charcoal flecks and stones. Fill of F893 8.00m x 0.18m x 0.18m Sub-circular cut (0.18m x 0.16m x 0.13m) with a sharp break of slope, concave sides 893 892 NAT 892 Cut of posthole and a sharp break of slope leading to a rounded base

Moderate greyish-brown with yellow mottling, silty clay with occasional 894 900 742 898 806 Fill of F900 decayed mudstones and iron panning. 7.80m x 0.43m x 0.20m Compact greyish-brown, silty clay with 895 900 900 742 occasional pebbles and stones. 2.20m x Fill of F900 0.39m x 0.16m Moderate greyish-orange, silty clay with occasional iron flecks and decayed 896 900 897 742 Fill of F900 sandstones and limestone. 2.50m x 0.53m x 0.23m

Compact dark-grey with orange mottling, silty clay with occasional iron flecks and 897 900 900 896 Fill of F900 decayed limestone. 4.60m x 0.32m x 0.29m Compact brownish-grey, silty clay with 898 900 899 894 occasional iron flecks. 2.00m x 0.38m x Fill of F900 0.07m

Compact light-grey with orange mottling, 899 900 742 898 Fill of F900 silty clay. 2.00m x 0.50m x 0.16m

91 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

95-109 235-6 245 248-53 Linear east-west cut (1.20m width x 0.50m 272-5 109 236 249 depth) with a sharp break of slope, steep 277 397 900 544 707 252 507 511 sides and a sharp break of slope leading Cut of ditch 505-19 513 895 897 to the base. Cuts 905, 1025, 262, 992, 692 706 740-2 806 894-9 1008

Loose light-greyish-brown, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron panning 901 1033 927 4 Fill of F1033 and decayed limestone. 10.00m x 0.45m x 0.09m

Moderate light-grey with orange mottling, clay with occasional iron flecks and 902 1033 903 927 Fill of F1033 decayed sandstones. 10.00m x 0.36m x 0.21m Moderate greyish-brown with orange mottling clay with occasional charcoal 903 1033 1033 902 flecks and decayed sandstone and Fill of F1033 limestone and stones. 10.00m x 0.30m x 0.18m

585-91, Linear east-west cut (24m x 1.10m x 611-43, 0.45m) with a sharp break of slope, steep 904 NAT 591 619 Cut of ditch 739, sides and a sharp break of slope leading 752-9 to a concave base

92 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

124, 130-5, 137-43, 145-52, 213-20, 135 145 150 Curvilinear cut (25m x 0.38-2.50m x 223-30, 216 219 240 0.24m) with a sharp break of slope, steep 905 544 Cut of ditch 238-40, 288 325 342 sides and a gradual break of slope leading 276, 542 758 to a rounded base 288, 324-6, 330-42, 541-2

Sub-rectangular, north-south cut (2.60m x 787-92, 1.60m x 0.28m) with a gradual break of 906 795-6, NAT 792 Cut of pit slope, gently sloping sides and a gradual 800 break of slope leading to a flat base

Curvilinear cut (12m x 0.75m x 0.34m) 302-23, 310 313 314 with a sharp break of slope, steep sides 907 NAT Cut of ditch 848-51 317 318 323 and a sharp break of slope leading to a concave base

Linear north-south cut (0.60m width x 0.19m depth) with a gradual break of 908 877 NAT 877 Cut of ditch slope, concave sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a rounded base

Moderate greyish-brown, silty clay with 909 919 910 916 occasional charcoal flecks and decayed Fill of F919 stones. 5.80m x 0.50m x 0.05m

93 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact light-brown, silty clay with 913 912 occasional stones, decayed sandstones, 910 919 909 Fill of F919 917 charcoal flecks and iron panning. 6.20m x 0.20-0.48m x 0.05-0.12m

Compact brownish-yellow, silty clay with 911 919 914 918 913 917 occasional iron panning, charcoal flecks Fill of F919 and stones. 8.00m x 0.44m x 0.14m

Moderate brownish-grey, silty clay with occasional iron panning, decayed 912 919 919 910 Fill of F919 sandstones and pebbles. 1.50m x 0.17m x 0.12m Moderate light-brownish-grey, silty clay 913 919 911 910 with occasional stones. 1.50m x 0.27m x Fill of F919 0.05m

Compact yellowish-grey, clayey silt with 914 919 915 911 occasional decayed sandstones and Fill of F919 limestone. 2.60m x 0.17m x 0.15m

Moderate grey, silty clay with occasional 915 919 919 914 Fill of F919 stones. 4.80m x 0.32m x 0.07m

Soft greyish-yellow, silty clay. 0.08m width 916 919 909 4 Fill of F919 x 0.15m depth

Moderate yellowish-brown, silty clay with 917 919 911 910 occasional pebbles. 1.50m x 0.19m x Fill of F919 0.10m

Moderate brownish-yellow, silty clay. 918 919 919 911 Fill of F919 1.50m x 0.18m x 0.18m

Curvilinear cut (8.00m x 0.54m x 020m) with varying breaks of slope, varying sides 919 909-18 NAT 912 915 918 Cut of ditch and a gradual break of slope leading to a concave base

94 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Linear east-west cut (8.00m x 0.26m x 171-4, 0.40m) with a sharp break of slope, steep 920 183, NAT 173 199 200 Cut of gully sides and a sharp break of slope leading 199-202 to a flat base Figure-of-eight-shaped east-west cut (2.20m x 0.84m x 0.32m) with a sharp 921 644-50 NAT 650 break of slope, steep sides and a sharp Cut of kiln (kiln 3) break of slope leading to an undulating base Irregular northeast-southwest cut (4.40m x 610, 1.20m x 0.35m) with a sharp break of 922 NAT 696 700 Cut of possible kiln 693-701 slope, steep sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a concave base

Compact dark-brown, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron panning, 923 926 924 4 Fill of F926 stones and decayed limestone and sandstones. 2.00m x 0.30m x 0.05m

Compact brown, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron panning, stones and no 924 926 925 923 Fill of F926 decayed sandstones. 2.75m x 0.30m x sample # 0.17m

Compact brown with yellow mottling, silty clay with occasional iron panning, stones 925 926 926 924 Fill of F926 and decayed sandstones. 1.32m x 0.60m x 0.15m

Irregular, northwest-southeast cut (2.80m x 0.67m x 0.20m) with a gradual break of 926 923-5 NAT 925 Cut slope, gently sloping sides and an undulating base

Loose light-greyish-brown silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron panning, 927 1033 902 901 Fill of F1033 decayed sandstones. 8.40m x 0.10m x 0.14m

928 Non archaeological

95 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact dark-brown-black silty sand with Small flint #160 929 964 964 4 occasional burnt bone fragments and Fill of F964 tool #161 charcoal. 0.37m x 0.24m x 0.08m

930 Non archaeological

Moderate grey-black, silty sand with #162 moderate burnt bone fragments and 931 961 961 1053 Fill of F961 Flint #163 charcoal and occasional stones. 0.50m x #164 0.47m x 0.12m

Moderate dark-brown-black, sandy silt Flint blade, with occasional pebbles and moderate #157 932 962 962 4 Fill of F962 flint, flint charcoal and burnt bone fragments. 0.50m #159 debitage x 0.33m x 0.13m Flint blade, rounded flint Moderate greyish-black, sandy silt with scraper, #178 frequent charcoal and moderate stones 933 963 963 4 Fill of F963 worked flint #233 and burnt bone fragments. 0.36m x 0.34m flake, flint #234 x 0.09m blade fragment, 6 flints Moderate dark-grey-black, sandy silt with #186 frequent charcoal and occasional stones 934 982 982 4 Fill of F982 #187 and burnt bone fragments. 0.56m x 0.42m #188 x 0.12m

Burnt flint #221 Moderate black, sandy silt with moderate flake, small #222 pebbles and frequent charcoal flecks and 935 983 983 4 Fill of F983 flint flake, #223 occasional burnt bone flecks. 0.35m x flint flake, 5 #224 0.30m x 0.25m flints #225

Compact black, silty clay with frequent 936 977 977 4 charcoal flecks and occasional stones. Fill of F977 #198 0.16m x 0.15m x 0.07m

96 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

4 pieces burnt flint debitage, Moderate mid-greyish-brown, clayey silt flint flake with moderate charcoal and occasional 937 980 980 4 Fill of F980 fragment, #171 burnt bone inclusions. 0.40m x 0.35m x flint blade, 0.35m 1 other piece of flint

2 worked flint flakes, broken flint Compact dark-brown-black, silty sand with flake, moderate charcoal and occasional #173 938 973 973 4 Fill of F973 rounded pebbles and burnt bone. 0.35m x 0.35m x #174 flint 0.06m scraper, 1 other flint piece Flint blade, flint end Moderate dark-brown-black, sandy silt scraper, with occasional stones and burnt bone #177 939 975 975 4 Fill of F975 flint fragments and frequent charcoal. 0.43m x #179 debitage, 1 0.16m x 0.20m other flint piece Flint blade, broken flint Moderate dark-brown-black, sandy silt flake, with moderate charcoal and burnt bone squared #175 940 978 978 4 Fill of F978 inclusions and occasional stones. 0.50m x flint #176 0.42m x 0.13m scraper, 3 other flint pieces #189 #190 #191 Moderate dark-brown-grey, sandy silt with #192 moderate stones, occasional burnt bone 941 984 984 4 Fill of F984 Flint #193 fragments and frequent charcoal. 0.45m x #194 0.35m x 0.35m #195 #196 #197

97 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact grey-brown, sandy silt with 942 988 988 4 frequent charcoal and occasional stones Fill of F988 and burnt bone. 0.20m x 0.20m x 0.15m

Moderate mid-brown, sandy silt with 943 986 986 4 occasional charcoal. 0.30m x 0.11m x Fill of F986 #210 0.08m 944 Cancelled. Same as F934 #199 945 Cancelled. Same as F934 #200 946 962 962 4 stones Stone fill of pit 962 #211 Flint #212 debitage, 2 #213 broken flint #214 Loose black, sandy silt with frequent flakes, #215 947 987 987 4 charcoal and moderate burnt bone. 0.27m Fill of F987 burnt flint, #216 depth worked #217 stone flake, #227 3 other flint #238 pieces #239 Moderate dark-brown-black, sandy silt with moderate charcoal and occasional #184 948 974 974 4 Fill of F974 stones and burnt bone. 0.30m x 0.25m x #185 0.12m Worked stone flake, flint blade #205 fragment, #206 burnt flint, Moderate dark-brown-black, sandy silt #207 worked flint 949 985 985 4 with moderate pebbles and charcoal Fill of F985 #208 flake, flint flecks. 0.44m x 0.36m x 0.33m #209 flake, 3 #218 pieces flint #219 debitage, 1 other flint piece

98 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate dark-brown-black material with #180 Broken flint moderate charcoal and occasional #181 950 979 979 4 Fill of F979 flake, flint pebbles and burnt bone. 0.37m x0.30m x #182 debitage 0.32m #183 Compact reddish, silty clay with moderate 951 966 966 4 charcoal and occasional stones. 0.36m x Fill of F966 0.30m x 0.08m 952 Cancelled

Moderate mid-reddish-orange-brown, silty 953 954 954 4 clay with occasional charcoal flecks and Fill of F954 #105 stones. 0.18m x 0.10m x 0.17m

Irregular, north-south cut (0.18m x 0.10m x 0.17m) with a sharp break of slope, 954 953 NAT 953 stakehole steep-vertical sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a rounded base

Moderate mid-orange-brown, silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks and burnt 955 968 968 4 Fill of F968 #172 orange clay inclusions and pebbles. 0.93m x 0.60m x 0.30m

Moderate light-greyish-brown, silty clay with moderate charcoal flecks and 956 969 969 4 Fill of F969 #169 occasional stones. 0.58m x 0.0.04-0.7m depth Moderate dark-brown, silty sand with 957 981 981 4 occasional charcoal and moderate stones. Fill of F981 #204 0.32m x 0.26m x 0.06m 958 Non archaeological #203 959 Non archaeological #202 960 Non archaeological #201 Circular cut (0.50m x 0.47m x 0.12m) with 961 931 NAT 931 a sharp break of slope, steep sides and a possible cremation pit concave base

99 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Oval cut (0.50m x 0.33m x 0.13m) with a sharp break of slope, steep sides and a 962 932 NAT 932 possible cremation pit sharp break of slope leading to a concave base Circular cut (0.36m x 0.34m x 0.09m) with 963 933 NAT 933 a sharp break of slope, sloping sides and possible cremation pit a concave base Oval cut (0.37m x 0.24m x 0.08m) with a 929 sharp break of slope, steep sides and a 964 NAT 929 cremation pit 931 gradual break of slope leading to a concave base

Moderate mid-brown, sandy silt with 965 967 967 4 occasional charcoal flecks and moderate Fill of F967 stones. 0.52m x 0.32m x 0.17m

212 Sub-circular cut (0.36m x 0.30m x 0.08m) 966 NAT 951 Possible cut 951 with sloping sides and an undulating base

Oval cut (0.52m x 0.32m x 0.17m) with a sharp break of slope, steep-vertical sides 967 965 NAT 965 pit and a gradual break of slope leading to a rounded base

Oval, east-west cut (1.00m x 0.60m x 0.19m) with a sharp break of slope, 968 955 NAT 955 pit slightly concave sides and a gentle break of slope leading to a rounded base

Loose dark-grey, silty clay with occasional 969 970 970 956 charcoal flecks and stones and burnt clay. Fill of F970 #168 0.92m x 0.58m x 0.03m

Loose dark-blackish-brown, silty clay with 970 998 971 969 frequent charcoal inclusions. 0.80m Fill of F998 #167 x0.68m x 0.12m Compact light-brown, silty clay with #170 971 998 998 970 moderate charcoal flecks and burnt clay Fill of F998 no inclusions. 0.50m x0.40m x 0.12m sample #

100 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

972 Cancelled

Circular cut (0.35m diameter x 0.06m depth) with an imperceptible break of 973 938 NAT 938 slope leading to convex sides and an cremation pit imperceptible break of slope leading to a concave base

Oval cut (0.29m x0.24m x 0.12m0 with a 974 948 NAT 948 sharp break of slope, steep sides and a cremation pit sharp break of slope leading to a flat base

Sub-circular cut (0.46m x 0.43m x0.20m) with a sharp break of slope, steep sides 975 939 NAT 939 cremation pit and a gradual break of slope leading to a concave base

976 Cancelled

Circular cut (0.16m diameter x 0.07m depth) with a gradual break of slope, 977 936 NAT 936 possible pit gently sloping sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a concave base

Sub-circular cut (0.50m x0.42m x 0.13m) with a sharp break of slope, steep sides 978 940 NAT 940 cremation pit and a sharp break of slope leading to a concave base

Sub-circular cut (0.32m x 0.27m x 0.33m) with a sharp break of slope, steep sides 979 950 NAT 950 cremation pit and a gradual break of slope leading to a concave base

Circular cut (0.40m x 0.35m x0.35m) with a sharp break of slope, vertical sides and 980 937 NAT 937 cremation pit a sharp break of slope leading to a flat base Sub-circular cut (0.32m x0.26m x 0.06m) with an imperceptible break of slope, 981 957 NAT 957 possible cremation pit convex sides and an imperceptible break of slope leading to a concave base

101 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Oval cut (0.56m x0.42m x 0.12m) with a 982 934 NAT 934 sharp break of slope, steep sides and a cremation pit sharp break of slope leading to a flat base

Oval cut (0.30m x0.25m x 0.35m) with a sharp break of slope, vertical sides and a 983 935 NAT 935 cremation pit gradual break of slope leading to a concave base

Irregular cut (0.10m x0.70m x0.05m) with a sharp break of slope, steep sides and a 984 941 NAT 941 cremation pit sharp break of slope leading to an undulating base

Irregular cut (0.44m x0.36m x 0.33m) with a sharp break of slope, straight sides and 985 949 NAT 949 cremation pit a sharp break of slope leading to a concave base

Irregular, northeast-southwest cut (0.30m x0.11m x 0.08m) with a gradual break of 986 943 NAT 943 cremation pit slope, steep sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a flat base

Keyhole-shaped cut with a sharp break of 987 947 NAT 947 slope, steep sides and a sharp break of cremation pit slope leading to a concave base

Circular cut (0.20m diameter x 0.15m depth) with a sharp break of slope, straight 988 942 NAT 942 cremation pit sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a concave base

Moderate light-brown, mottled orange, silty 989 990 1041 4 clay with moderate charcoal inclusions Fill of F1041 #236 and burnt clay. 0.20m x0.15m x 0.15m

102 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Oval, northeast-southwest cut (0.20m x 989 0.20m x 0.16m) with a sharp break of 990 NAT 1041 Cut of posthole 1041 slope, steep sides and a sharp break of slope leading to a concave base Moderate light-brown, clayey silt with 991 1038 1038 1042 occasional charcoal. 0.40m x0.32m x Fill of F1038 #237 0.19m 13-5, 398- 427, 432-6, 440-1, Linear cut (18m x 1.34m x 0.95m) with a 486-9, 437 442 sharp break of slope, steep sides and a 992 404 422 705 Cut of ditch 702-5, 564 707 sharp break of slope leading to a U- 737-8, shaped base 743-7, 1009- 11, 1032

295- 301, 344-55, ringditch (12m x 1.14m x 0.68m) with a 359, 344 353 465 sharp break of slope, steep sides and a 993 907 Cut of ringditch 389-96, 471 474 sharp break of slope leading to a rounded 428-31, base, extended beyond area of excavation 462-75, 691

490- 500, Curvilinear cut (5.40m x 0.56m x 0.40m) 529-36, 500 536 844 with a sharp break of slope, steep sides 994 564 Cut of curvilinear 842, 846 and a sharp break of slope leading to a 844-6, rounded base 1047

785 Linear cut (3.00m x 0.66m x 0.24m) with a 813 995 815 843 gradual break of slope, gently sloping Cut of gully 814 sides and an undulating base 843

103 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Irregular, northwest-southeast cut (1.65m 243 x 0.75m x 0.25m) with a gradual break of 996 244 NAT 246 slope, gradually sloping sides and a Cut of pit 246 gradual break of slope leading to an undulating base

Irregular cut (1.13m x 0.82m x 0.14m) with 884 a gradual break of slope, irregular sides 997 1026 Nat 1027 Cut of pit and a gradual break of slope leading to 1027 the base Sub-oval cut (1.15m x 0.58m x 0.12m) with a varying break of slope, gently 970 998 NAT 971 sloping sides and an imperceptible- Cut of pit 971 gradual break of slope leading to an undulating base 999 Non archaeological #231 1000 Non archaeological #232 Moderate mid-brown, silty clay with 1001 1003 1002 1035 occasional charcoal flecks and stones. Fill of F1003 0.51m x0.31m x 0.06m

Moderate reddish-brown, oxidised clay. 1002 1003 1003 1001 Fill of F1003 0.65m x 0.51m x 0.05m

oval, northwest-southeast cut (0.70m x 1001 0.51m x 0.14m) with a moderate break of 1003 1002 NAT 1002 Cut of pit slope, concave sides and a moderate 1035 break of slope leading to a concave base

1004 Non archaeological

Curvilinear northeast-southwest cut 241-2, (0.80m x 0.40mx 0.05m) with a sharp 259-61, 1005 564 242 261 280 break of slope, convex sides and a Cut of ditch 278-80, gradual break of slope leading to an 343 undulating base

104 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

815-36, Irregular cut (3.20m x 1.69m x 0.73m) with 841, 823 866 867 a sharp break of slope, steep sides and a 1006 Nat Cut of possible kiln 852-5, 868 sharp break of slope leading to an 862-9 irregular base

Moderate greyish-brown, mottled, clayey 1007 N/A NAT 4 silt with occasional pebbles and decayed Spread sandstones. 1.13m x 1.10m x 0.07m

Compact orange-grey, silty clay with 1008 900 397 742 occasional pebbles and stones. 5.20m x Fill of F900 0.86m x 0.20m Moderate greyish-orange, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron panning 1009 992 747 745 Fill of F992 and decayed limestone. 4.29m x 0.51m x 0.18m

Compact grey with orange mottling clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron 1010 992 427 590 747 Fill of F992 panning and decayed sandstones and mudstones. 4.20m x 1.71m x 0.39m

Compact brownish-grey clay with occasional flecks and decayed 1011 992 703 427 Fill of F992 sandstones and mudstones. 4.20m x 0.92m x 0.41m

Compact orange-grey, silty clay with 1013 occasional pebbles, decayed limestone 1012 1025 1013 1018 Fill of F1025 1014 and sandstones and charcoal flecks. 4.40m x 1.44m x 0.20m

Compact brown-orange-grey, clayey silt with occasional iron panning and decayed 1013 1025 1012 743 Fill of F1025 limestone and sandstones. 3.20m x 0.26m x 0.13m

105 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact light-orangey-grey, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, iron panning 1014 1025 1016 1012 Fill of F1025 and decayed sandstones. 3.20m x 0.52m x 0.12m

Moderate yellow-orange-grey, silty clay 1015 1025 1016 1012 with occasional decayed limestone and Fill of F1025 sandstones. 3.20m x 0.20m x 0.09m

Compact light-yellow-orange-grey, silty clay with occasional stones, charcoal 1016 1025 1017 1014 1015 Fill of F1025 flecks and decayed limestone and sandstones. 4.40m x 0.98m x 0.24m

Compact dark-orange-grey, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, pebbles and 1017 1025 1020 1016 1021 Fill of F1025 decayed limestone and sandstones. 6.40m x 0.67m x 0.23m

Compact dark-greyish-brown, clayey silt 1012 with occasional charcoal flecks, decayed 1018 1025 1021 12 Fill of F1025 stones, iron flecks and stones. 8.80m x 1023 1.44m x 0.20m Compact dark-orange-brown, silty clay 1019 1025 1025 590 with occasional decayed stones and Fill of F1025 pebbles. 2.50m x 0.28m x 0.26m

Compact orange-grey, silty clay with iron 1020 1025 590 1017 panning and occasional decayed stones Fill of F1025 and stones. 3.00m x 0.73m x 0.13m

Moderate greyish-orange, silty clay with 1021 1025 1017 1018 1022 occasional charcoal flecks and stones. Fill of F1025 3.00mx 0.73m x 0.23m Moderate light-orange-grey, silty clay with occasional iron panning, charcoal flecks, 1022 1025 590 1021 1023 Fill of F1025 decayed sandstones and stones. 6.00m x 0.62m x 0.18m

106 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Moderate grey, silty clay with brown 1022 mottling and occasional charcoal flecks, 1023 1025 1018 Fill of F1025 1024 stones and decayed limestone and sandstones. 0.58m x 0.27m x 0.42m

Compact grey, silty clay with occasional 1024 1025 1025 1023 charcoal flecks, pebbles and decayed Fill of F1025 sandstones. 3.2m x 0.60m x 0.45m 123-9, 136, 167-70, 175-9, 203-11, 221-2, 237, 285, 128 175 209 592- 211 596 602 Curvilinear cut (66m x 1.60m x 0.56m) 608, 603 608 712 with a sharp break of slope, steep sides 1025 710-12, 787 Cut of ditch 777 782 783 and a sharp break of slope leading to a 761-3, 793 807 concave base 775-7, 1019 1024 779-84, 793-4, 797-8, 801-5, 807-10, 1012- 24, 1031

Friable dark-greyish-brown, silty clay with 1026 997 884 461 occasional charcoal flecks and decayed Fill of F997 stones. 1.15m x 0.20m x 0.09m

Moderate light-greyish-brown, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks and 1027 997 997 884 Fill of F997 decayed limestone and sandstones. 1.20m x 0.25m x 0.05m

107 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Loose dark-greyish-brown, clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, stones and 1028 1033 1029 12 Fill of F1033 iron flecking. 14.40m x 0.40-0.60m x 0.07- 0.14m Moderate mid-greyish-brown, silty clay with orange mottling and occasional 1029 1033 1030 1028 decayed stones, charcoal flecks, pebbles Fill of F1033 and iron panning. 8m x 0.51-0.70m x 0.18m

Moderate dark-greyish-brown, silty clay 1030 1033 1033 1029 with occasional charcoal flecks and Fill of F1033 decayed stones. 11.20m x 0.17m x 0.09m

Moderate mid-orange-brown, silty clay with occasional charcoal flecks, decayed 1031 1025 810 808 Fill of F1025 stones and iron flecks. 0.65m x 0.32m x 0.16m

Friable light-greyish-brown, clayey silt with occasional charcoal flecks, decayed 1032 992 401 743 Fill of F 992 sandstones, stones and iron flecks. 4.70m x 0.65m x 0.10m

Curvilinear cut (17m x 0.70m x 0.27m) 901-3, with a sharp break of slope, steep sides 1033 Nat 903 1030 gully 1028-30 and a sharp break of slope leading to a flat base

Mid brown silty clay with occasional small 1034 1037 1037 4 Fill of F1037 #230 stones (0.60m x 0.37m x 0.09m)

Loose mid-greyish-brown, silty clay with 1035 1003 1001 1037 burnt clay inclusions, charcoal flecks and Fill of F1003 #229 grey mottling. 0.58m x 0.27m x 0.14m

Two, linear north-south cut (1.61m x 356 0.40m x 0.16m) with a gradual break of 1036 NAT 356 357 Cut of two furrows 357 slope, gently sloping sides and a gradual break of slope leading to a concave base

108 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Oval, north-south cut (0.60m x 0.37m x 0.09m) with a sharp break of slope, 1037 1034 1035 1034 gradually sloping sides and an Cut of pit imperceptible break of slope leading to a flat base

Circular cut (0.40m x 0.37m x 0.24m) with 991 1038 NAT 991 a sharp break of slope, steep sides and a posthole 1042 sharp break of slope leading to a flat base

Moderate brown-grey, clayey silt with 1039 1040 1044 1043 frequent charcoal and stones. 0.30m x Fill of F1040 #235 0.15m x 0.35m Circular cut (0.35m x 0.33m x 0.35m) with 1039 a sharp break of slope, steep sides and a 1040 1043 NAT 1044 Cut of posthole gradual break of slope leading to a 1044 concave base

Loose brown-grey, silty clay with frequent 1041 990 990 989 Fill of F990 charcoal. 0.15m diameter x 0.20m depth

Moderate mottled orange-brown, clayey 1042 1038 991 4 silt with frequent charcoal and stones. Fill of F1038 0.82m x 0.40m x 0.05m

Moderate light-brown, clayey silt. 0.20m x 1043 1040 1039 4 Fill of F1040 0.20m x 0.04m

Compact light-brown, clayey silt. 0.35m x 1044 1040 1040 1039 Fill of F1040 0.10m x 0.11m

Mid-dark-brown, silty clay with occasional 1045 1046 1046 4 charcoal flecks. 15m x 0.27-0.34m x Fill of F1046 0.05m Linear cut (15m x 0.28m x 0.05m) with a sharp break of slope, gently sloping sides 1046 1045 NAT 1045 Cut of furrow and a sharp break of slope leading to a flat base

109 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Fill of / Strat Animal Burnt No Filled Strat below Description Interpretation Phase Artefacts Samples above bone bone with

Compact grey, silty clay with orange mottling and occasional charcoal flecks, 1047 994 845 530 Fill of F994 decayed stones and iron flecks. 1.50m x 0.38m x 0.16m

1048 Not allocated

Loose mid-brown, silty clay with 1049 1050 1050 4 Fill of F1050 occasional stones. 0.24m x0.23m x 0.11m

sub-circular cut (0.24m x 0.23m x 0.14m) with a sharp break of slope, steep sides 1050 1049 NAT 1049 Cut of posthole and a sharp break of slope leading to the base

Mid brown silty clay with occasional small 1051 1052 1052 4 Fill of F1052 stones (0.60m x 0.37m x 0.09m)

1052 1051 NAT 1051 Sub-circular cut (0.20m x 0.15m x 0.11m) Cut of stakehole Compact yellowish-brown, silty clay with 1053 N/A 931 4 occasional charcoal flecks. 0.15m length x Spread 0.05m depth

Compact grey, clayey silt with occasional 1054 1006 841 831 869 decayed stone, stones, iron flecks and Fill of F1006 charcoal flecks. 1.80m x 0.55m x 0.15m

110 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

APPENDIX 2 Finds List

Find Number Description A008/025:4:1 Local medieval pottery body sherd (13th-14th century) A008/025:4:2 Modern pottery fragment A008/025:4:3 Chert butt trimmed form, Bann flake A008/025:4:4 Stone butt trimmed form A008/025:4:5 Stone debitage from blade A008/025:4:6 Stone debitage A008/025:4:7 Stone debitage A008/025:4:8 Stone debitage A008/025:4:9 Chert flake, indent retouched artefact A008/025:4:10 Chert debitage A008/025:11:1 Flint debitage A008/025:11:2 Flint flake, indent retouched artefact A008/025:11:3 Flint debitage A008/025:11:4 Flint A008/025:11:5 Flint debitage A008/025:12:1 Flint leaf shaped arrowhead A008/025:12:2 Local medieval pottery body sherd (13th-14th century) A008/025:12:3 Flint debitage A008/025:12:4 Flint debitage, notched form A008/025:12:5 Flint debitage, indent retouched fragment A008/025:12:6 Flint leaf shaped arrowhead A008/025:12:7 Flint debitage A008/025:12:8 Local fineware pottery body sherd (13th-14th century) A008/025:12:9 Local fineware pottery body sherd (13th-14th century) A008/025:12:10 Flint debitage A008/025:12:11 Flint awl A008/025:12:12 Flint butt trimmed form, tanged A008/025:12:13 Flint debitage A008/025:12:14 Horseshoe fragment A008/025:12:15 Flint debitage A008/025:12:16 Flint butt trimmed form, Bann flake A008/025:12:17 Quartz debitage A008/025:12:18 Flint hollow based arrowhead A008/025:12:19 Flint blade fragment w/retouched edge A008/025:12:20 Flint blade fragment w/retouched edge A008/025:12:21 Flint debitage A008/025:12:22 Small undiagnostic fragment of iron A008/025:59:1 Shale whetstone A008/025:95:1 Flint butt trimmed form A008/025:132:1 Quartz flake A008/025:144:1 Stone fragment A008/025:248:1 E-ware body/shoulder sherd A008/025:252:1 Flint convex scraper A008/025:287:1 E-ware body/shoulder sherd A008/025:289:1 Flint fragment A008/025:291:1 Fabric fragment A008/025:300:1 Stone fragment A008/025:345:1 Flint distally trimmed flake A008/025:446:1 Flint butt trimmed form A008/025:555:1 Flint A008/025:652:1 Flint debitage

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Find Number Description A008/025:688:1 Quartz core A008/025:757:1 Flint debitage A008/025:761:1 Flint distally trimmed flake A008/025:838:1 Flint debitage A008/025:929:1 Flint debitage A008/025:931:1 Flint debitage A008/025:932:1 Flint debitage A008/025:932:2 Flint chip A008/025:932:3 Flint debitage A008/025:933:1 Flint debitage A008/025:933:2 Flint convex scraper A008/025:933:3 Flint debitage A008/025:933:4 Flint debitage, invasively retouched form A008/025:933:5 Flint debitage A008/025:933:6 Flint debitage A008/025:933:7 Flint debris A008/025:933:8 Flint chip A008/025:933:9 Flint debitage

A008/025:933:10 Flint chip A008/025:935:1 Burnt flint debitage A008/025:935:2 Flint debitage A008/025:935:3 Flint debitage A008/025:935:4 Flint debitage, possible retouching flake A008/025:935:5 Flint chip A008/025:935:6 Flint debitage, possible retouching flake A008/025:935:7 Flint chip A008/025:935:8 Flint debitage, possible retouching flake A008/025:937:1 Burnt flint debitage A008/025:937:2 Burnt flint debitage A008/025:937:3 Flint convex scraper A008/025:937:4 Flint debitage A008/025:937:5 Flint debitage A008/025:937:6 Burnt flint debitage A008/025:937:7 Flint debitage, possible retouching flake A008/025:938:1 Flint debtiage, possible retouching flake A008/025:938:2 Flint debitage, possible retouching flake A008/025:938:3 Flint debitage A008/025:938:4 Flint convex scraper A008/025:938:5 Flint chip A008/025:939:1 Flint blade w/retouched edge A008/025:939:2 Flint convex scraper A008/025:939:3 Flint debitage, possible rejuvenation piece A008/025:939:4 Flint debris A008/025:940:1 Flint debitage, indent retouched fragment A008/025:940:2 Flint debitage, indent retouched fragment A008/025:940:3 Flint convex scraper A008/025:940:4 Flint debris A008/025:940:5 Flint debitage, possible retouching flake A008/025:940:6 Flint debitage A008/025:941:1 Flint debtitage, retouching flake A008/025:947:1 Flint debitage A008/025:947:2 Flint retouching flake A008/025:947:3 Flint debris

2 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Find Number Description A008/025:947:4 Flint debitage A008/025:947:5 Chert debitage A008/025:947:6 Flint debris A008/025:947:7 Flint scraper, rejuvenation flake A008/025:947:8 Flint debitage A008/025:949:1 Chert debitage A008/025:949:2 Flint debitage, indent retouched fragment A008/025:949:3 Flint convex scraper Flint debitage, possible retouching flake w/retouched A008/025:949:4 edge A008/025:949:5 Flint debitage, possible retouching flake A008/025:949:6 Flint debitage, possible retouching flake A008/025:949:7 Flint debris A008/025:949:8 Flint chip A008/025:949:9 Flint chip A008/025:950:1 Flint debitage A008/025:950:2 Flint debitage

3 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

APPENDIX 3 Sample List Sample No Context No Results 1 144 nothing 4 139 1g cremated bone 5 154 nothing 6 155 nothing 7 21 nothing 8 23 nothing 9 33 nothing 12 17 nothing 13 32 charcoal flecks 14 18 nothing 15 42 charcoal flecks 16 37 nothing 17 39 nothing 19 22 8g charcoal, charred grain

4g cremated bone, charcoal flecks, charred grain, 20 24 snail shells

21 16 nothing 23 82 1g cremated bone, snail shells 26 43 nothing 28 120 nothing 30 60 nothing 32 196 cremated bone flecks 33 197 nothing 34 232 nothing 35 F3/F5 nothing 35 F3/F5 nothing 36 161 nothing 38 159 nothing 40 256 nothing 41 257 nothing 42 255 nothing 44 263 nothing 46 265 charcoal flecks 47 266 nothing 48 267 nothing 49 270 nothing 50 268 nothing 51 48 nothing 52 59 nothing 53 233 nothing 53 290 nothing 54 291 charcoal flecks 55 292 charcoal flecks 56 293 nothing 57 377 nothing 58 375 nothing 59 87 nothing 59 370 nothing 60 360 nothing 61 361 nothing

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Sample No Context No Results 62 362 nothing 63 364 nothing 64 365 nothing 65 366 nothing 66 367 nothing 67 368 nothing 71 269 90g charcoal 71 484 nothing 73 208 4g charcoal 74 481 nothing 75 482 cremated bone flecks 76 483 nothing 78 446 nothing 79 476 charcoal flecks 80 477 charcoal flecks 81 478 nothing 82 479 nothing 83 127 iron ore 86 204 nothing 87 125 nothing 88 131 3g charcoal, charred grain 89 132 charred grain, iron ore 90 133 nothing 91 134 nothing 94 180 iron ore 95 181 nothing 96 171 nothing 97 172 nothing 98 123 nothing 98 123 iron ore 100 167 nothing 101 200 nothing 102 282 nothing 103 286 nothing 104 219 nothing 105 220 nothing 105 953 nothing 106 209 nothing 107 211 nothing 109 296 nothing 110 179 nothing 111 129 iron ore 112 248 1g charcoal 113 250 iron ore 114 387 10g charcoal, charred grain, seeds 115 385 nothing 116 986 nothing 118 444 1g cremated bone 119 520 nothing 120 544 nothing 121 542 bone fragments 122 300 nothing 123 345 charred grain, 6g charcoal

2 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Sample No Context No Results 124 549 nothing 125 550 nothing 126 551 nothing 127 552 nothing 128 554 nothing 129 555 charred grain, charcoal flecks 130 556 charcoal flecks 131 560 charcoal 132 645 nothing 133 646 nothing 134 647 nothing 135 648 nothing 136 649 nothing 137 650 nothing 138 644 seeds 139 525 bone flecks, charcoal flecks 140 439 nothing 142 652 4g cremated bone 142 652 nothing 144 677 5g cremated bone, charred grain, charcoal flecks 145 678 2g cremated bone, charred grain 146 839 nothing 147 838 charred grain 148 686 nothing 149 687 charred grain, charcoal flecks 150 688 nothing 151 689 nothing 152 690 nothing 154 840 charred grain 155 610 3g charcoal 156 748 charcoal flecks 166 868 nothing 167 970 charred grain 168 969 charred grain 169 956 charred grain 170 971 charred grain, charcoal flecks 171 937 5g charcoal, charred grain, charcoal flecks 172 955 7g charcoal 198 936 charcoal remains 201 960 nothing 202 959 nothing 203 958 charcoal flecks 204 957 nothing 210 943 nothing 229 1035 nothing 230 1034 nothing 231 1001 nothing 232 1002 nothing 235 1039 3g charcoal 236 989 2g charcoal 237 991 nothing 10, 29 19 charred grain, charcoal flecks

3 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Sample No Context No Results 11, 27 20 nothing 153, 241 609 121g charcoal, charred grain 157, 159 932 3g charcoal, 2g cremated bone, charcoal flecks 160-161 929 3g cremated bone, charcoal flecks

162-164 931 12g charcoal, 14g cremated bone 173, 174 938 2g charcoal, 2g cremated bone, charred grain 175, 176 940 charcoal flecks, 1g cremated bone, snail shells 177, 179 939 14g charcoal, 20g cremated bone

178, 233, 234 933 5g charcoal, 3g cremated bone fragments charred grain, snail shells, charcoal flecks, 2g 180-182=3 950 cremated bone, 2g charcoal 184, 185 948 nothing 186-188 934 2g charcoal

189-197 941 20g charcoal, cremated bone flecks

199, 200 945 3g charcoal 2, 117 142 charred grain, charcoal flecks 8g charcoal, 1g cremated bone, charcoal flecks, 205-209 949 shells 211-217, 227, 22g charcoal, 9g cremated bone, charcoal flecks, 947 238, 239 charred grain 22, 39 64 charcoal flecks 16g charcoal, snail shells, cremated bone flecks, 221-225 935 charcoal flecks 24, 31 61 nothing 25, 99 124 7g charcoal, charred grain 3, 93 138 5g charcoal, iron ore 37, 84 162 nothing 45, 108 264 nothing 68, 92 137 3g charcoal, iron ore 72, 85 170 4g charcoal 250 327 nothing 251 328 charred grain 252 329 nothing 253 329 nothing 254 496 charred grain 255 579 nothing 256 581 nothing 257 662 nothing 258 663 nothing 259 664 nothing 260 718 nothing 261 719 nothing 262 720 3g cremated bone, 15g animal bone 263 884 charcoal flecks 264 924 nothing

4

APPENDIX 4 Topsoil Assessment: Maria Lear & Stuart Rathbone

Project Metal Detection: M3 Clonee to North of Kells, Contract 2 Archaeologists Maria Lear & Stuart Rathbone Project Start 13 June 2005 Report Date June 2005

List of Figures Figure 1 Metal Detection (Phase 1) Distribution Map Figure 2 Metal Detection (Phase 2) Distribution Map Figure 3 Field Walking Distribution Map Figure 4 Test Pit Distribution Map

1. INTRODUCTION The proposals for archaeological resolution included an assessment of the potential for finds retrieval from topsoil at archaeological sites. This assessment was achieved by a program of metal detecting at ploughed and pasture fields. As per the Method Statement for Topsoil Assessment Including Metal Detection, metal detection of the topsoil began within Contract 2 on June 13, 2005.

2. Archaeological Assessment 2.1 Metal Detection Methodology 1. A grid was established as follows – a baseline was marked on one side of each site along the long axis. Perpendicular offset lines were marked at 10m intervals along the baseline to form stints and these were subdivided along the offset line to form parallel transects 2m wide. 2. The metal detection commenced at one end of the baseline and provided for a 2m ‘sweep’ along each transect, thus providing for 100% coverage of topsoil deposits at each site. 3. The location of all metal ‘hits’ was marked on the ground with tags. 4. All metal ‘hits’ in the sod or topsoil were tested by careful hand excavation of the sod/topsoil. Stratified artifacts were left in situ. 5. All artifacts were bagged and numbered citing DOE record number, context and individual number. Their location was also recorded.

2.2 Field Walking Survey – Methodology 1. A grid was established as follows – a baseline was marked on one side of each site along the long axis. Perpendicular offset lines were marked at 10m intervals along the baseline to form stints and these were subdivided along the offset line to form parallel transects 4m wide.

2. Each transect was assigned a letter and each stint a number so that each stint would have a unique reference. 3. The field walking took place along each transect and provided for 2m coverage (i.e.: 1m either side of the walker’s path), thus providing 50% coverage of the site. 4. The location of all artefacts was marked on the ground with tags. 5. All artifacts were bagged and numbered citing DOE record number, context and individual number. Their location was also recorded.

2.3 Test Pit Methodology When deemed necessary, a number of pre-designated test pits were dug at various locations within the site. The test pits measured 1m2 and their precise position was surveyed. Each test pit was dug by hand to the depth of subsoil and the resulting loose topsoil was sifted on site for the recovery of finds. All finds were bagged and numbered citing DOE record number, context and individual number. Their location was recorded with reference to the specific test pit from where it was collected.

2.4 Results The first phase of metal detection dealt with the sod layer only and finds recovered were labelled as being from context 1. Initial metal detection of the Castletown Tara 1 site produced one ‘hit’ with one find recovered. The second phase of metal detection was completed after the sod was removed and dealt with the topsoil layer only. These topsoil finds were recorded under context number 2. This second phase also produced a total of 26 ‘hits’ with 19 finds recovered and 7 in situ ‘hits’. Field walking of Castletown Tara 1 produced no further collection of finds. All of the finds recovered were of modern date and consisted of items associated with a modern timeframe (machine parts, nails and a horseshoe fragment). A total of 5 test pits were completed with no finds recovered.

2.5 List of Finds Find Number Description A008/025:1:1 Modern iron object (machine fragment) A008/025:2:1 Nail A008/025:2:2 Hook A008/025:2:3 Nail A008/025:2:4 Modern iron object A008/025:2:5 Nail A008/025:2:6-7 2 Nails A008/025:2:8 Magnetized stone A008/025:2:9 Modern iron object A008/025:2:10 Nail A008/025:2:11 Nail head A008/025:2:12-15 4 Nails A008/025:2:16 Machine part A008/025:2:17 Horseshoe fragment A008/025:2:18-19 2 Nails

Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

APPENDIX 5 Radiocarbon Dates

Sample Lab Conventional 13C/12C Context Material Species id/ Lab Date Type Calibrated Date Oxcal Date No Code Date (BP) Ratio ‰

AD 440–490 and AD 520– 22: fill of 19 Charcoal Hazel (227mg) Beta 247046 AMS(STD) 570 one sigma 1540±40 -22.9 AD 426–601 curvilinear B 262 AD 420–610 two sigma AD 540–610 one sigma 124: fill of ditch Maloideae 99 Charcoal Beta 247047 AMS(STD) AD 440–490 and 1500±40 -25.5 AD 434–644 H 905 (298mg) AD 520–640 two sigma 345: fill of ditch Charred wheat AD 610–650 one sigma 125 Grain Beta 247048 AMS(STD) 1420±40 -22.5 AD 565–666 M 993 grain (18mg) AD 570–660 two sigma 387: Basal fill of Charred wheat AD 640–660 one sigma 114 Grain Beta 247049 AMS(STD) 1380±40 -22.7 AD 580–765 kiln 548 (Kiln 1) grain (6mg) AD 610–680 two sigma 669:basal fill of Charred barley AD 610–650 one sigma kiln 883 (flue- 153 Grain Beta 247050 AMS(STD) 1420±40 -23.4 AD 565–666 grain (17mg) AD 570–660 two sigma Kiln 2) 2890–2879 BC and 933: fill of 2800–2780 BC one sigma Charred crab 2909–2674 cremation pit 178 Apple Beta 247051 AMS(STD) 2900–2850 BC and 4220±40 -23.4 apple (772mg) BC 963 2810–2740 BC and 2730–2690 BC two sigma

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

APPENDIX 6 Animal Bone Report: Charlotte Coles

Introduction Castletown Tara 1 is a site in County Meath. It is close to the monument the and was excavated as part of the M3 Clonee to North of Kells Road Scheme. It comprises two phases; Neolithic and Early Medieval. The mammalian remains come from the Early Medieval period. The remains were analysed and divided into countable and non-countable fragments, which were entered into a database and ‘low grade’ fragments which were discarded (see methodology for more details). Only 14 fragments were considered countable, this was due to poor soil conditions (Elder, pers. comm.). These remains include cattle (Bos taurus), sheep/goat (Ovis/Capra), pig (Sus sp.) and horse (Equus sp.).

Methodology The quantification of the Castletown Tara 1 material was undertaken by utilising the methodology used for Knowth by McCormick and Murray (2007). This methodology was based on that of Albarella and Davis (1996). The material was divided into three categories, countable, non-countable and low grade (the material that cannot be recorded due to its low information value). The NISP (number of identifiable specimens) was calculated based on the material classified as countable.

The range of elements that can be recorded include any of the following bones that have at least 50% of an articulate surface. This avoids the possibility of a falsely high MNI (minimum number of individuals) or NISP calculation.

The quantifiable elements recovered from this site are as follows: Scapula, where the glenoid articulation survives. Astragalus, if the distal end survives. Loose teeth where the occlussal surface is present, (mandibular, maxillary or where it is not possible to differentiate between the two). Long bones such as the humerus, tibia or femur, etc are recorded when 50% of the epiphyseal surface survives, this includes unfused epiphyses and unfused metaphyses.

For MNI calculations, siding was taken into account on fused bones and unfused metaphyses. MNI was calculated through dividing the amount of each element by the number of times that element appears in the body.

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

For each countable fragment, phase, context, species, element, side, fusion, percentage present, condition of specimen, butchery, burning, pathology and gnawing are recorded, if present. For appropriate specimens measurements are taken using sliding calipers. These measurements are based on those of von den Driesch (1976).

Ageing data was recorded using epiphyseal fusion data, which is then used to calculate an age from Reitz and Wing (1999, 76) for cattle, sheep/goat and pig and from Silver (1969, 285- 286) for horse. For ageing using toothwear, three cattle teeth had recordable toothwear based on Grant (1982) two were first/second molars (M1/2) and one was a third molar (M3). For pig one M3 had recordable toothwear also based on Grant (ibid). Therefore one mandible wear stage, based on Higham (1967, 107) was calculated for cattle and one for pig. This data is very limited for interpretation purposes.

Results There were only 14 countable fragments which limit the information which can be derived from the animal remains from this site. There was an MNI of one for each of the four species present. Table 1 shows that the NISP (number of identifiable specimens) is greater for cattle than the other species.

Element Cattle Sheep/Goat Pig Horse Total Loose teeth 2 2 Loose lower premolar 1 1 Loose lower M1/2 2 2 Loose lower M3 2 1 3 Scapula 1 1 Humerus 1 1 Femur 2 2 Tibia 1 1 Astragalus 1 1 NISP 8 1 2 3 14 %NISP 57% 7.3% 14.3% 21.4% 100%

MNI 1 1 1 1 4 %MNI 25% 25% 25% 25% 100%

Table 1. NISP and MNI for Castletown Tara 1.

2 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Ageing For ageing, epiphyseal fusion and toothwear were analysed. Tooth eruption was based on the principle that certain teeth erupt at certain times. Toothwear was studied based on the principle that the older an individual at the time of death, the more wear that occurs on the occlussal surface of the tooth and by studying the level of wear present it is possible to assign a wear stage. For loose mandibular M3s and mandibles where two or more teeth survive, a minimum age at death based on the toothwear can then be calculated (see methodology for more details).

Fusion was studied for the bones present. Bones were recorded as being either fused (F), just fusing (J) or unfused, either as unfused metaphysis (UM), unfused epiphysis (UE) or both (UX).

The two cattle M3 teeth recovered are possibly from the same animal and had Higham mandible wear stages of 20, meaning the animal was at least 40 months old at death (Higham 1967, 104). This possibly implies that the cattle were kept for secondary products, as the animals were not being killed at a time when the meat was in prime condition (McCormick and Murray 2007). However this cannot be proven with such small amounts of bone.

The pig M3 present has a Higham mandible wear stage of 21, meaning the animal was 23-25 months old (Higham 1967, 105). Due to the small amounts of bone no definite conclusions can be made.

In regards to fusion, all bones studied were fused. There was only one fused scapula for cattle, this means the animal was at least 7-10 months (Reitz and Wing 1999, 76) which also supports the toothwear data. One fused distal humerus was recorded for pig. This means the animal was at least 12-18 months (ibid) which also supports the toothwear. For the sheep/goat fragments, specimens were assumed to be sheep (Ovis aries) as opposed to goat (Capra hircus) for assigning fusion-based age ranges. One fused distal tibia suggested that the animal was at least 15-24 months (ibid). For horse, two femoral heads, a left and a right, possibly from the same animal, were fused suggesting the animal was older than 3 – 3.5 years old (Silver 1969, 286). Any interpretation of this data is limited due to the small amount of bone fragments.

3 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Metrical data Only two measurements could be made for this assemblage, based on those of von den Driesch (1976). These however cannot be used to create an estimated withers height or estimate the sex of the individuals.

Feature Record ID Species Element Bd GLm 542 1 Sheep/goat Tibia 23.9 - 542 10 Cattle Astragulus - 57.1

Table 2. Summary of metrical data recorded for Castletown Tara 1 (in mm).

Butchery/Gnawing/Burning/Pathology/Injury No signs of butchery, gnawing, burning or pathology were seen in this assemblage.

Conclusion The Castletown Tara 1 assemblage is very small, due to bad preservation in soil conditions that were not favourable to bone. The assemblage includes one cow, one sheep/goat, one pig and one horse with bones all fully fused. No butchery marks were present on the bone and the same is true for burning, gnawing, and pathological change. No more information can be gleaned from this assemblage.

Recommendations The ultimate decision on permanent storage of the assemblage will be made by the National Museum of Ireland following dialogue with the excavation license holder. Any material that is accepted by the National Museum should be stored in National Museum approved low-acid boxes (as used by ACS Ltd) and be left ready for transfer to NMI along with the other significant mammalian bone remains retrieved from archaeological excavation along the route of the M3 Clonee to North of Kells Road Scheme.

References Albarella, U. and Davis, S.J. 1996. ‘Mammals and birds from Launceston Castle, Cornwall: decline in status and the rise of agriculture’, Circaea 12 (1), 1-156.

Driesch, A von den. 1976. A guide to the measurement of animal bones from archaeological sites. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Peabody Museum of archaeology and ethnology, Harvard University.

4 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Grant, A. 1982. ‘The use of tooth wear as a guide to the age of domestic ungulates’ in B. Wilson, C, Grigson and S. Payne (eds.), Ageing and sexing animal bones from archaeological sites, 91-108. (British Archaeological Reports Series 109). Oxford: BAR.

Higham, C.F.W. 1967. ‘Stock-rearing as a cultural factor in prehistoric Europe’, Proceedings of the Prehistoric Society 33, 84-106.

McCormick, F. and Murray E. 2007. Knowth and the Zooarchaeology of Early Christian Ireland. Dublin: Royal Irish Academy.

Reitz, E.J. and Wing, E.S. 1999. Zooarchaeology. (Cambridge Manuals in Archaeology). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Silver, I.A. 1969.’The ageing of Domestic Animals’ in D.R. Brothwell and E. Higgs (eds.), Science in Archaeology, 283-302. London: Thames and Hudson.

5 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

APPENDIX 7 Environmental Report: Archaeological Services, University of Durham (ASUD)

Castletown Tara 1, M3 Motorway Project, Co Meath, Ireland plant macrofossil, charcoal, cremated bone and mollusc analysis on behalf of Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd

Report 2040 January 2009

Archaeological Services Durham University South Road Durham DH1 3LE Tel: 0191 334 1121 Fax: 0191 334 1126

[email protected] www.durham.ac.uk/archaeological.services

Castletown Tara 1, M3 Motorway Project, Co Meath, Ireland plant macrofossil, charcoal, cremated bone and mollusc analysis Report 2040 January 2009 Archaeological Services Durham University on behalf of Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd Unit 21 Boyne Business Park, Greenhills, Drogheda, Co. Louth, Ireland

© Archaeological Services 2009

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

1. Summary The project 1.1 An excavation was undertaken by Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd at Castletown Tara 1, Co Meath, Ireland. Neolithic and early medieval activity was identified. This report presents the results of plant macrofossil, charcoal, cremated bone and mollusc analysis of the fills of cremation pits, ditches, kilns, pits and postholes.

Results 1.2 Charred crab apples, emmer wheat grains and hazel nutshell fragments were abundant in the Neolithic cremation pits, and may have been food offerings or the remains of ritual feasting associated with the funerary activity. Barley, oats, bread wheat and rye were present in the early medieval contexts. The kilns were used for drying the cereal crops prior to storage or grinding.

1.3 Oak was the main fuel used for the prehistoric cremation pyres, with hazel either being used for kindling or wattle structures. Hazel-dominated scrub woodland grew near the site during the early medieval period, and hazel and alder were the main fuels used in the corn-drying kilns.

1.4 Small quantities of bone were recovered from the Neolithic cremation pits, and contexts associated with early medieval activity. The weight of bone from the cremation pits ranged from <0.1g to 12.2g, and they may have been token burials or cenotaphs; alternatively bone may have been lost through disturbance. Possible human bone (from an adult/ adolescent) was only identified in one of these cremation burials. Animal bone was recorded in 5 contexts. None of the bone in the remaining contexts could be identified, and it was not possible to tell whether it was human or animal. Most bone, including that from the cremation burials, was fully oxidised, but bone from some contexts was partially oxidised or charred.

1.5 Identifiable mollusc remains from the deposits were few, and the assemblages too small for detailed interpretation. The presence of small numbers of at least 4 aquatic taxa in the fill of cremation pit C979 (Context 950) was worthy of note, however.

2 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

2. Project background Location and background 2.1 An excavation was undertaken by Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd at Castletown Tara 1, Co Meath, Ireland (NGR 292003 261818). The site comprised a series of ditches and drainage gullies, 3 figure-of-eight type grain-drying kilns and a small circular stake-built hut. Eighteen cremation pits were excavated, many of which contained flint artefacts of apparent Neolithic date. Radiocarbon analysis of charcoal and charred grain from ditch and kiln fills provided early medieval dates, while a Neolithic date was obtained from one of the cremation pits. This report presents the results of plant macrofossil, charcoal, cremated bone and mollusc analysis of the fills of the cremation pits, ditches, kilns, pits and postholes.

Objective 2.2 The objective was to analyse the plant macrofossils, charcoal, cremated bone and molluscs from the site, in order to provide information about the diet, land use and local environment.

Dates 2.3 Samples from batch 7 were received by Archaeological Services Durham University in April 2008. Analysis and report preparation was conducted between April 2008 – January 2009.

Personnel 2.4 Sample processing was undertaken by Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd. The residues were sorted by Mr Lorne Elliott. Charcoal analysis was undertaken by Dr Charlotte O’Brien and Mr Lorne Elliott. Plant macrofossil analysis and report preparation were by Dr Charlotte O’Brien. Cremated bone analysis was by Dr Anwen Caffell, with faunal identifications by Ms Louisa Gidney. Mollusc analysis was by Mr John Carrott.

Archive 2.5 The licence number is A008/025. The charcoal, flots, bone and mollusc samples are currently held at the Environmental Laboratory at Archaeological Services Durham University awaiting collection or return.

3 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Acknowledgements 2.6 The author is grateful to Dr Helen Ranner for collecting the modern crab apples, and for photography by Mr Jeff Veitch.

3. Plant macrofossil analysis Methods 3.1 The residues were examined for plant remains, shells, bones, pottery sherds and metalworking debris. The dry flots were scanned at up to x60 magnification using a Leica MZ7.5 stereomicroscope for charred and waterlogged plant remains. Identification of these was undertaken by comparison with modern reference material held in the Environmental Laboratory at Archaeological Services Durham University. Plant taxonomic nomenclature follows Stace (1997). The flots were passed through a nest of sieves, with mesh sizes of 4mm, 2mm and 1mm to aid the analysis. Contexts (124), (345) and (609) contained substantial quantities of charred grain, and therefore the flots were sub-sampled using a riffle box. 25% of context (124), and 12.5% of each of contexts (345) and (609), were analysed. The results were multiplied up to give an estimate of the full contents of the flots, with the entire flot scanned in each case to ensure that all taxa present were recorded.

Results 3.2 Charcoal was present in most of the contexts, and was abundant in many of the cremation pit fills, in addition to the fills of Curvilinear B and Kiln 2. Flecks of calcined bone were occasionally noted in the residues, and clinker was recorded in some of the ditch and kiln fills. Flints were present in 12 of the cremation pit fills. Low numbers of uncharred seeds, insect remains and roots were infrequently recorded in the flots, but the non-waterlogged nature of the site suggests these are later intrusive material. A crinoid (pre-Quaternary fossil) was noted in pit fill (970), which will have derived from the Carboniferous limestone bedrock of the area. Spheroid hammerscale was recorded in ditch fill (138), which may indicate some metalworking on the site. The results of the plant macrofossil analysis are presented in Appendix 1.1-1.5.

Neolithic cremation pits 3.3 Charred plant remains were abundant in many of the cremation pit fills, particularly contexts (933), (935), (937), (939), (941) and (947). These were dominated by charred fragments of crab apple fruit. In most cases these were small fragments, but a single whole crab apple was present in each of contexts (939) and (947). Some

4 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

fragments appeared to have been cut in half before they were charred. These included 2 pieces in context (933), 2 in context (939) and 1 in context (941). The condition of the material did not allow precise size measurements to be made, but the diameter of the widest points of the most intact pieces suggested ranges from 11-23mm. Crab apple pips were also frequent, and charred material resembling apple stalks was recorded in contexts (933) and (937). Charred hazel nutshell fragments were present in all of the fills except (924) and (957), and a single charred elderberry fruitstone occurred in context (947). Cereal grains were present in 11 of the fills, and wheat grains were the most frequently recorded species. Barley was present in low numbers in 7 contexts, and a few oat grains were recorded in contexts (931) and (937). Two charred peas were also present in context (931). Charred weed seeds and chaff fragments occurred in very low numbers.

Early medieval ditches, gullies and curvilinear features 3.4 Charred cereal grains were present in many of the fills, and were abundant in context (19), fill of Curvilinear C119, context (124), fill of Ditch G, and context (345), fill of Ditch M. In most contexts, the assemblages were dominated by barley grains, with a lower proportion of oats, and with wheat grains absent or only recorded in low numbers relative to the other cereals. By contrast, wheat grains were abundant in context (345), where they were present in roughly equal proportions to the barley grains (Figure 3.1). A few rye grains were present in context (124), and low numbers of charred bramble and elderberry fruitstones were noted in context (345). A few charred weed seeds and chaff fragments were occasionally recorded.

Large oat grains 15% Barley grains 28%

Small oat grains 14%

Weeds and chaff 2%

Indeterminate grains Wheat grains 14% 27%

Figure 3.1: Proportions of charred plant remains from ditch fill (345)

5 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Early medieval kilns 3.5 Charred cereal grains were present in all of the kiln fills except contexts (646) and (689). They were abundant in context (387), fill of Kiln 1, and context (609), fill of Kiln 2, and were dominated by barley and wheat grains. Barley grains outnumbered those of wheat in context (609), but they were present in equal proportions in context (387). Oat grains were also numerous in these contexts. Charred weed seeds and chaff fragments occurred in low numbers.

Early medieval pits 3.6 Charred cereal grains were present in all of the pit fills except contexts (525), (545) and (662). They were abundant in the fills of pit C998, and were dominated by barley with a lower proportion of oats. A few wheat grains were present in context (677), but wheat grains were absent from the other pit fills. A few charred weed seeds and chaff fragments were occasionally recorded.

Early medieval postholes 3.7 Charred plant remains were absent from all of the posthole fills, except context (555), which comprised 9 barley grains.

Discussion Neolithic 3.8 The occurrence of charred hazel nutshell fragments, crab apples and elderberry fruitstones suggests that gathered wild foods were an important part of the diet of the Neolithic inhabitants of Castletown Tara 1. Hazel nutshells are frequently recorded from prehistoric sites, particularly those dating to the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods (McComb & Simpson 1999). They offered a highly nutritious food source, which was easily gathered and could be stored with little preparation (ibid.). In addition, pollen analysis suggests that hazel was a prominent arboreal species throughout the prehistoric period in Ireland (Mitchell & Ryan 1990).

3.9 The presence of apple pips in Neolithic contexts is not unusual, but fragments of the charred endocarps are less frequently recorded (Monk 1988). The only other published Irish record that the author is aware of is from Tankardstown South, Co (Monk 1988), where the apples occurred with hazel nutshell fragments and emmer wheat in fills associated with a Neolithic house. Sites in Britain include a Neolithic timber hall at Balbridie, Grampian Region, Scotland (Fairweather & Ralston 1993), and Neolithic pits in North Yorkshire, where crab apples were

6 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

recorded with hazelnuts, emmer wheat, naked barley, raspberries, elderberries, rose hips and sloes (Huntley 1994). These latter pit fills were interpreted as comprising the remains of ritual feasting, possibly associated with activities relating to the nearby henges at Thornborough (Huntley personal communication).

3.10 Sites with charred crab apple endocarps on the European continent include Gwoździec, Zarębowo and Las Stocki in Poland (Bieniek & Litynska-Zajac 2001; Klichowska 1972; Lityńska 1986). At Las Stocki, it was noted that the edges of the charred halved apples were contracted around the margins and the skin was wrinkled, which according to Helbaek (1952a), indicates that they had been dried before charring. Drying would have enabled the fruit to have been stored for consumption after the fruiting season. In Switzerland, Sweden and Denmark the knowledge of preservation of apples by drying is demonstrated from early prehistoric times (Helbaek 1952b). The fruits were bisected or sliced and were possibly dried by heat (ibid.). At Castletown Tara 1, several of the apple pieces appeared to have been halved before charring, but where skin was present, it showed only fine wrinkling, and contraction of the cut margins was not observed. The wrinkling and contraction observed in modern crab apples which were dried slowly in a drying cabinet (at approximately 40°C), is shown in Figure 3.2. Figure 3.3 shows a typical section of charred apple skin from Castletown Tara 1. The absence of these features may indicate that fresh apples were used at this site, however the vast majority of the apple remains were too fragmented to make appropriate observations. As will be discussed more fully below, the remains may represent food offerings placed on the funeral pyre or vestiges of ritual feasting. As it is unlikely that all of the cremations took place in autumn or early winter (when fresh apples would have been available), the fills probably represent the remains of both fresh and dried apples, as they were available. At least some apples had been charred whole, as an entire apple was noted in each of contexts (939) and (947).

3.11 Wheat grains were frequently recorded in the cremation pit fills at Castletown Tara 1, and although wheat grain morphology is variable, most had the high dorsal ridge and tear-drop shape most often seen in emmer wheat (Figure 3.4). In addition, a few fragments of emmer wheat chaff (glume bases and spikelet forks) were present in (933) and (937). Barley grains were also occasionally present. Unfortunately, most of these were in a poor condition, and the diagnostic chaff was absent. However, one barley grain in context (947) was hulled, while one in each of contexts (939) and (941) were from the naked variety. Emmer wheat and naked barley are cereals

7 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

commonly recorded on Neolithic sites, and as noted above, were recorded at Balbridie, Scotland and North Yorkshire, England (Fairweather & Ralston 1993, Huntley 1994). Emmer wheat was the main cereal recorded at Tankardstown South, Co Limerick (Monk 1988), and emmer was also recorded in a ditch fill at the nearby site of Baronstown 1, Co Meath (Archaeological Services 2009a), where some early prehistoric activity was identified, pre-dating the early medieval settlement on the site.

Figure 3.2: Modern dried crab apples showing characteristic wrinkled skin and contraction of the margins around the cut surface

Figure 3.3: Typical section of charred apple skin from Castletown Tara 1 context (947)

8 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Figure 3.4: Emmer-type wheat grains from Castletown Tara 1 context (937)

3.12 A few oat grains were present in contexts (931) and (937), but diagnostic chaff was absent. As this crop is not believed to have been widely cultivated in Ireland until the early medieval period (Monk 1986), it is more likely that these few grains derive from wild, rather than cultivated, oat species. Low numbers of the wheat grains in contexts (931), (937) and (938) had the short, stout shape associated with bread wheat. In addition, 2 peas were recorded in context (931). Both bread wheat and legumes are crops associated with the historic period in Ireland (Monk 1986), and their presence in these contexts may therefore indicate some reworking of material relating to the medieval activity on the site. Having this said, it has been suggested that bread wheat was cultivated in Britain during the Neolithic period (Hillman 1981), and bread wheat was recorded from the Neolithic contexts at Balbridie, Scotland (Fairweather & Ralston 1993).

3.13 The charred cereal grains, crab apples and hazel nutshell fragments in the cremation pits, may represent food offerings burnt on the funeral pyre, or the remains of ritual feasting associated with the funerary process. Burnt sheep/goat bones were identified in context (939) (see section 5) which may have been used in a similar way. In this ritual context, the presence of crab apples may have a greater significance than just as an offering of food. Wild apple trees are listed as one of the seven ‘nobles of the wood’ in the 8th century legal tract Bretha Comaithchesa, an attribution which the document indicates is in part due to the importance of its fruit (Kelly 1976). Also, many texts suggest that apples were regarded in the past as having mythical,

9 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

beneficial properties (Chevalier & Gheerbrant 1982; Waring 1978; Vickery 1995). Perhaps, of particular significance in this context is the association of the apple with immortality and the afterlife, and it has been suggested that in some traditions importance was given to the 5-pointed star which is evident when an apple is cut across the ‘equator’ (Chevalier & Gheerbrant 1982)(Figure 3.2 and 3.5). As discussed above, some of the apples at Castletown Tara 1 appeared to have been halved, which is common practice to enable apples to dry prior to storage. Although 2 apple halves showed an obvious ‘equatorial’ section (one is shown in Figure 3.5), it was not entirely evident if these had been deliberately cut or if they had merely broken in this direction. In addition, the examples which clearly showed cut surfaces, were bisected lengthwise. Therefore, if the apples did have a ritual importance, the results are inconclusive as to whether the direction in which the apples were bisected was significant.

Figure 3.5: Charred crab apples from Castletown Tara 1 context (939) - on the left, a whole apple, with the calyx facing up; on the right, an apple cut or broken across the ‘equator’ showing the star pattern

3.14 The low number of chaff fragments and weed seeds indicates that the cereal grains had been cleaned prior to their incorporation in the fills. The few charred weed seeds

10 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

were from grasses and the arable weed, scentless mayweed. These are likely to have grown with the cereal crops.

Early medieval 3.15 Barley grains were abundant in the early medieval contexts. They were in a poor condition, and pitting and other damage to the grain surface prevented further identification of many of the grains. However, many could be identified as being hulled, and a small number exhibited the twisted shape which is characteristic of a proportion of grains in 6-row barley. It should be noted though, that grains can be distorted as a result of charring, and unfortunately the fragments of barley chaff recorded were not sufficiently well-preserved to confirm whether 6-row or 2-row barley was present.

3.16 Oat grains were also numerous, and these were divided into 2 size categories: large grains which were retained on the 2mm sieve; and small, slender grains which passed through this sieve. All of these may be from Avena sativa (cultivated oats), as the spikelets of this species usually have two fertile florets, the first producing larger grains than the second (Jacomet 2006). In addition, an Avena sativa floret base was recorded in ditch fill (124) and pit fill (969), confirming the presence of cultivated oats on the site. However, the abundance of the small, slender grains suggests that a proportion of these grains may be from wild species of oats, and some may be from other wild grasses. Avena strigosa/brevis (bristle oats), may also be represented, but the absence of the diagnostic chaff prevents further identification.

3.17 In most of the early medieval contexts wheat grains were absent or only present in very low numbers. However, they were abundant in ditch fill (345), and kiln fills (387) and (609). In all 3 contexts, the wheat grains had the short, stout shape characteristic of bread wheat, and bread wheat chaff was also present. A few rye grains were recorded in ditch fill (124), suggesting that this was a minor crop at the site.

3.18 Studies suggest that hulled 6-row barley, oats and rye were the staple crops of the early medieval period in Ireland (McClatchie 2007; Monk 1986), and therefore the predominance of barley and oats at Castletown Tara 1 is not unusual. Barley and oats were also the main crops identified from other early medieval sites along the M3 corridor, such as Castletown Tara 3 (Archaeological Services 2009b), Clowanstown 3 (Archaeological Services 2008a) and Garretstown 2 (Archaeological Services 2008b),

11 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

and from early medieval sites recently studied in Co. Laois, including Killeany 1 (Archaeological Services 2008c) and Derrinsallagh 3 (Archaeological Services 2008d). By contrast, bread wheat is believed to have been more widely cultivated in the post-Norman period (Monk 1986), and therefore its use suggests relatively progressive agricultural practices at Castletown Tara 1. Two peas were noted in context (931), which is also a crop associated with sites of late medieval date. The presence of bread wheat may reflect a high status for the site, as it is at the top of the list of relative prestige of cereals outlined in the 8th century law text Bretha Déin Chécht (Binchy 1966). However, the low status crops of hulled barley and oats were more frequently used at the site.

3.19 The abundance of charred cereal grains in the kiln fills suggests that these were corn- drying kilns, used to dry the crops prior to storage or grinding. The relatively small number of chaff fragments and weed seeds suggests that the crops had been processed prior to drying. However, it is also feasible that unprocessed crops were dried, as the surface damage of the grains indicates they were exposed to high temperatures, and experiments have shown that weeds and chaff burn off before the cereal grains (Boardman & Jones 1990). The mixture of crop types in the kiln fills is likely to reflect several firings of the kilns, with insufficient clearing out after each use, although the cultivation of maslin crops cannot be ruled out. These deliberately mixed crops were sown in order to reduce the risk of total crop failure (Jones & Halstead 1995). The large assemblages of charred grain in the ditch fills (124) and (345), and the fills of pit (969) probably represent the disposal of domestic waste, or caches of grain accidentally burnt during the drying process.

3.20 Most of the weed seeds recorded are likely to have grown with the crops, particularly the arable weeds, black-bindweed and corn marigold. Some of the ruderal taxa, e.g. redshank, hemp-nettle, cleavers and ribwort plantain, may also have occupied areas of disturbed, waste ground at the site.

4. Charcoal analysis Methods 4.1 Charcoal was collected from the residues and flots and added to pre-sorted material. Following Boardman (1995), identifications were made on fragments >4mm. At least 100 fragments were identified per context, where available. The transverse, radial and tangential sections were examined at up to x600 magnification using a Leica DMLM microscope. Identifications were assisted by the descriptions of Hather

12 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

(2000) and Schweingruber (1978), and modern reference material held in the Environmental Laboratory at Archaeological Services Durham University. The different species were weighed separately. A single entity of charcoal from a short- lived tree species was provided for radiocarbon dating from contexts (22) and (124). In addition, charred cereal grains from contexts (345), (387) and (609), and charred crab apple endocarp fragments from contexts (933) and (939) were also provided for dating.

Results Neolithic cremation pits 4.2 Oak and hazel dominated the charcoal assemblages of the cremation pit fills. Elm, elder, willow/poplar, cherries (wild cherry, bird cherry or blackthorn), Maloideae (hawthorn, whitebeams, apple, pear), ivy, ash and alder were also infrequently recorded. The results of the charcoal analysis are presented in Appendix 1.1 and Figure 4.1.

12

Indet. >4mm 10 Elm

) 8 Elder Willow or poplar 6 Oak Cherries Charcoal (g Charcoal 4 Maloideae Ivy 2 Ash 0 Hazel 929 931 932 933 934 935 937 938 939 940 941 947 949 950 Alder Context

Figure 4.1: Proportions of identified charcoal from the Neolithic cremation pits

Early medieval ditches, gullies and curvilinear features 4.3 Most of the ditch, gully and curvilinear fills comprised relatively small quantities of charcoal. Larger amounts were present in contexts (22), fill of Curvilinear B, context (124), fill of Ditch G, and context (345), fill of Ditch M. The charcoal in these contexts was dominated by hazel and oak, with lesser proportions of ash, alder, Maloideae, cherries, willow/poplar and guelder-rose. The proportions of identified charcoal species are presented in Appendix 1.2 and Figure 4.2.

13 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Early medieval kilns 4.4 Kiln fills (387) and (609) comprised large amounts of charcoal which were dominated by alder and hazel. Ash was also abundant in (609), and a few fragments of cherry were recorded in both contexts. The proportions of identified charcoal species are presented in Appendix 1.3 and Figure 4.2.

Early medieval pits 4.5 The early medieval pit fills comprised very small amounts of charcoal, which included a few fragments of hazel, willow/poplar, cherry, oak and indeterminate bark. The proportions of identified charcoal species are presented in Appendix 1.4.

Early medieval postholes 4.6 Context (196) comprised a single fragment of oak charcoal, and a few fragments of Maloideae charcoal were present in context (989). Identifiable charcoal was absent from the other posthole fills. The proportions of identified charcoal species are presented in Appendix 1.5.

25

Indet. >4mm 20 Diffuse porous Guelder-rose

) Willow or poplar 15 Oak Cherries 10 Maloideae Charcoal (g Charcoal Ash Hazel / Alder 5 Hazel Alder 0 22 24 82 124 131 138 142 345 387 609

Curvilinear Ditch Kiln Context

Figure 4.2: Proportions of identified charcoal from early medieval contexts (contexts with charcoal <0.5g not shown)

14 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Discussion Neolithic 4.7 All of the charcoal species in the cremation pit fills are native to Ireland, and were probably readily available in the local landscape. Oak was abundant, and most of the fragments appeared to be timber (stemwood), suggesting that mature trees had been felled. In addition, tyloses were occasionally noted, indicating that heartwood was present. It is likely, therefore, that oak was the main fuel used for the cremation pyres, which is unsurprising as studies indicate that this wood was usually chosen for prehistoric cremations (O’Donnell 2007). It is believed that oak was favoured as it allows the high temperatures (500ºC) needed to burn body fats and maintain combustion (ibid.). The cremated bone analysis indicates that the bone fragments in the pits were exposed to temperatures in excess of c. 600ºC (see section 5).

4.8 Hazel was abundant, and many roundwood (branchwood) fragments were noted. Hazel also makes a good fuel (O’Donnell 2007), and may have been used as kindling on the pyre. It has been traditionally used for wattling (Orme & Coles 1985), and it is feasible that it formed a wattle structure on which the body was placed. Species within the Maloideae group cannot be differentiated based on wood/charcoal morphology (Hather 2000), but considering the presence of charred crab apples (see section 3), it is possible that some of the fragments of Maloideae are from apple trees. A recent study of Bronze Age cremation deposits in Ireland indicated that Maloideae and cherry were also frequently recorded, which it was suggested was due to the pleasant aromas produced by these woods when burnt (O’Donnell 2007). A fragment of the woody climber, ivy, was recorded in context (931), which may have been brought to the site attached to a host tree, rather than having been deliberately collected. Small amounts of elm, elder, willow/poplar, ash, and alder were also used as fuel or kindling.

Early medieval 4.9 As with the Neolithic contexts, all of the charcoal species in the early medieval features are native to Ireland. The wood is likely to have been collected locally, and therefore the results suggest that hazel-dominated scrub woodland was present near the site. Oak was much less frequently recorded than in the Neolithic contexts, which may indicate that the local oak woodland had largely been cleared by the time of the early medieval occupation. Alder would have been growing on wetland areas, for example along the banks of the River Skane. Guelder-rose also favours damp places, and is often found in fen carr and alder/willow thickets (Preston et al. 2002). Willow

15 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

and poplar charcoal cannot be differentiated with certainty (Hather 2000), and therefore the fragments of Salicaceae charcoal may derive from willows growing in similar wetland areas to the alders, or poplar trees which would have thrived on rich, alluvial soils.

4.10 Hazel, alder and ash were the main fuels used in the corn-drying kilns. While hazel and ash are good fuels, alder burns quickly, giving off little heat (O’Donnell 2007), although it produces good charcoal. The presence of charred cereal grains and animal bone in many of the other features (see sections 3 and 5), indicates that many of the fills comprise domestic waste or waste from the corn-drying kilns. The charcoal therefore reflects the fuelwoods used for these activities, with hazel often being the species selected.

5. Cremated bone analysis Methods 5.1 Cremated bone was recovered from 9 of 18 cremation pits identified during excavation. Bone was also recovered from ditches, postholes, and a gully to the south of Kiln 1. Twenty-seven contexts were presented for analysis, with a total weight of 68.5g. Each context was passed through a nest of sieves, with mesh sizes of 10mm, 5mm, and 2mm (McKinley 2004). Each fraction was weighed and the largest fragment of bone was measured.

Results and interpretation 5.2 Summary data is presented in Table 5.1, and the fraction weights and fragment size data are given in Table 5.2.

5.3 The weight of burnt bone in each context was small, averaging 2.5g per context, and ranging from <0.1g to 19.7g (Table 5.1). The total weight of bone from the 9 identified cremation pits was 20.7g, with over half of the material (12.2g) deriving from context (931) from burial (931). Most of the remainder weighed <1.0g. A further 2 contexts are described as ‘cremation fills’, one of which (context 939) contained 19.7g of bone. In all cases the amount of bone falls well short of the c. 1000-2500g recorded for modern cremations (McKinley 1993), but a token selection of remains from the pyre may have been collected for burial in archaeological contexts (McKinley 2000). These may represent the remains of token cremation burials, or possibly cenotaphs (ibid.). However, if the burials have been disturbed, then an unknown quantity of bone may have been lost.

16 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

5.4 The bone from the majority of contexts was severely fragmented, with the bulk of the material in the smallest sieved fraction (Table 5.2). This was the case for the majority of the cremation burials. The maximum fragment size ranged from 3.9mm to 30.3mm, the latter occurring in context (939), a cremation fill. In the majority of contexts, the size of the maximum fragment was far smaller, and the mean was just 13.6mm.

5.5 In the majority of contexts, including all cremation burials, the bone was white in colour suggesting exposure to temperatures in excess of c. 600ºC with a plentiful supply of oxygen (McKinley 2004). The black colour within the cortex of bone from context (409) suggests the bone was not fully oxidised throughout, and the darker greys present within context (22) implies the bone was burnt at temperatures between c. 300-600ºC or with a restricted oxygen supply (ibid.). The black and brown colours present in 4 of the contexts suggests that some of the bone was charred at low temperatures (below c. 300ºC), or burnt with a limited supply of oxygen (ibid.). This was particularly noticeable for context (24), the fill of curvilinear ditch B.

Table 5.1: Summary of cremated remains

Weight Context Context Detail Bone Colour Species (g) Grey to white, some dark 22 Curvilinear B Unknown 1.7 brown/ black 24 Fill of curvilinear B Brown & black, some white Animal 7.2 64 Cremated bone sample White, some black/ brown Unknown 4.0 67 Cremated bone sample White, some grey & brown Unknown 1.1 82 Fill of curvilinear B White Unknown 3.2 118 ? White Unknown 0.3 138 Fill of ditch H (905) White Unknown 0.1 139 Fill of ditch (905) White Unknown 0.1 196 Fill of postpipe in posthole (197) White Unknown <0.1 White, some black internal 409 Cremated bone sample Unknown 0.8 cortex Fill lying against northern edge of 444 White/ pale grey Unknown 0.2 ditch A Upper postpipe fill of posthole 482 White Unknown 0.1 (485) 652 Middle fill of three in pit (679) White Unknown 2.5 677 Upper fill in pit (679) White Unknown 2.2 678 Oxidised basal fill of pit (679) White Unknown 0.6 Basal fill in small gully (721) 720 White Unknown 2.3 south of kiln 1 Fill of cremation burial (964) - 929 White Unknown 0.4 possibly Neolithic

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Fill of cremation burial (931) - 931 White Human? 12.2 possibly Neolithic Fill of cremation burial (962) - 932 White Unknown 0.9 possibly Neolithic 933 Cremation fill White Unknown 1.6 Fill of cremation burial (983) - 935 White Unknown 0.1 possibly Neolithic 938 Fill of cremation burial (973) White Unknown 0.3 939 Cremation fill White Animal 19.7 940 Fill of cremation burial (978) White Unknown 1.2 947 Fill of cremation burial (987) White Unknown 5.2 949 Fill of cremation burial (985) White Unknown <0.1 950 Fill of cremation burial (979) White Unknown 0.3

5.6 The fragments were examined with a view to identification. A couple of fragments of possible human bone were present in context (931) from cremation burial (931), but no human bone was identified in any of the other contexts. Burnt animal bone was present context (939). Unfortunately, none of the remaining contexts contained any identifiable burnt bone, and it was not possible to determine whether the bone was human or animal. Contexts (22), (24), (345), (525) and (542) contained fragments of unburnt animal bone and/ or teeth. The identifiable animal bone fragments are listed in Table 5.4 and included sheep/goat, cattle and pig.

Table 5.2: Fraction weights and fragment size

Total Fraction Weights Max. Context Weight >10mm 5-10mm 2-5mm Frag Size g g % g % g % mm 22 1.7 0.0 0.0 0.7 41.2 1.0 58.8 22.3 24 7.2 3.0 41.7 3.1 43.1 1.1 15.3 30.3 64 4.0 0.6 15.0 2.7 67.5 0.7 17.5 25.6 67 1.1 0.0 0.0 0.3 27.3 0.8 72.7 14.9 82 3.2 2.5 78.1 0.5 15.6 0.2 6.3 26.4 118 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.2 66.7 <0.1 33.3 12.2 138 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 100.0 4.7 139 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 100.0 7.8 196 <0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 <0.1 100.0 3.9 409 0.8 0.0 0.0 0.7 87.5 0.1 12.5 11.6 444 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2 100.0 8.6 482 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 100.0 8.7 652 2.5 0.0 0.0 0.9 36.0 1.6 64.0 12.4 677 2.2 0.0 0.0 0.9 40.9 1.3 59.1 14.5 678 0.6 0.0 0.0 0.1 16.7 0.5 83.3 9.7 720 2.3 0.0 0.0 0.8 34.8 1.5 65.2 14.9 929 0.4 0.0 0.0 0.3 75.0 <0.1 25.0 9.8

18 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

931 12.2 1.3 10.7 5.7 46.7 5.2 42.6 21.6 932 0.9 0.0 0.0 0.6 66.7 0.3 33.3 14.0 933 1.6 0.0 0.0 0.1 6.3 1.5 93.8 9.5 935 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 100.0 5.0 938 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.2 66.7 0.1 33.3 6.9 939 19.7 3.4 17.3 6.0 30.5 10.3 52.3 30.3 940 1.2 0.0 0.0 0.7 58.3 0.5 41.7 10.8 947 5.2 2.7 51.9 1.7 32.7 0.8 15.4 18.8 949 <0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 <0.1 100.0 5.9 950 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 100.0 7.1

The Possible Human Bone 5.7 The weight of identified bone for context (931) is given in Table 5.3, with a full catalogue provided in Appendix 2. Only a small proportion of bone (5.7%) from context (931) was tentatively identified as possibly human, and this included two adjoining fragments of probable radial head (part of the elbow joint). The size of the fragments would be consistent with an adult or adolescent. Fragments of long bone were also present, and weighed 1.3g; unfortunately it was not possible to determine from which bone(s) these came.

Table 5.3: Weight of identifiable bone fragments

Skull Axial Upper Limb Lower Limb Total Context g % g % g % g % g % 931 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.7 100.0 0.0 0.0 0.7 5.7 Table 5.4: Identifiable animal bone

Context Species Notes 22 Sheep/goat-size cf. tibia (unburnt) 24 Sheep/goat Astragalus (unburnt) 345 Indeterminate animal Tooth enamel fragments 525 Cattle-size Tooth enamel fragment 542 Pig Tooth x 2 (unburnt) Cattle Tooth in small fragments (unburnt) Cattle-size Astragalus (unburnt) 939 Sheep/goat Astragalus and calcaneum (calcined)

6. Mollusc analysis Methods 6.1 Shell remains recovered from bulk sediment samples (‘GBA’/‘BS’ sensu Dobney et al. 1992) processed by the excavator and representing 7 deposits were submitted to for analysis.

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6.2 The submitted material was examined for mollusc remains and these were identified as closely as possible with reference to published works (main sources Cameron 2003, Cameron & Redfern 1976, Ellis 1969, Kerney 1999, Kerney & Cameron 1979, Macan 1977). The assemblages of identifiable remains were small so that minimum numbers of individuals could be readily determined and counts were recorded (based on numbers of shell apices for snails and pairing of valves, if possible, for bivalves). Nomenclature follows Kerney (1999).

Results 6.3 Very small quantities of shell were recovered from the samples, ranging from just a few unidentified fragments to small assemblages of terrestrial and freshwater snails. The remains were, on the whole, poorly preserved with most of the submitted assemblages consisting largely of unidentified fragments. In general, smaller and relatively more robust shells (e.g. of Carychium and Vertigo species) were less fragmented, whereas identifiable remains of larger forms (e.g. Discus rotundatus) were typically apex fragments. Some bias of counts of minimum numbers of individuals in favour of the smaller species is, therefore, to be expected. In some cases species level identifications were also prevented by small amounts of encrusted sediment obscuring diagnostic features (e.g. in the mouth of the shell).

6.4 The results for individual deposits are presented in context number order, with archaeological information presented in square brackets. A brief summary of the processing method and remains submitted follows after the sample numbers (where known).

Context 24 [Fill of curvlinear B] Sample 20 (5.963 kg sieved to 500 microns with washover (‘flot’); submitted material comprised <1 g of shell remains to 3 mm (in two bags); a further 22.245 kg of sediment from this deposit yielded no additional remains)

Two small bags of shell recovered from this deposit were submitted. Both contained 4 fragments, with 1 including a single Vallonia ?excentrica Sterki and an unidentified apex fragment of another land snail. All of the other fragments were probably of land snails, but were otherwise unidentified.

20 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Context 82 [Fill of curvilinear B] Sample 23 (4.539 kg sieved to 500 microns with washover (‘flot’); submitted material comprised <1 g of shell remains to 3 mm)

Shell remains submitted for this deposit totalled approximately 66 fragments, most of which were unidentified. The component that could be identified (at least in part) consisted of 3 Discus rotundatus (Müller) apex fragments, 1 Vallonia ?excentrica, 1 Vertigo ?pygmaea (Draparnaud), 2 Carychium tridentatum (Risso), 5 unidentified freshwater planorbid apex fragments and 4 more apex fragments of unidentified land snails. In addition, there were 4 apex fragments of the freshwater snail Valvata piscinalis (Müller).

Context 924 [No information available] Sample number unknown (processing details unknown; submitted material comprised <1 g of shell remains to 4 mm)

Shell recovered from this deposit consisted of just 2 unidentified land snail apex fragments.

Context 935 [Fill of cremation pit C983] Sample 222 (3.284 kg sieved to 500 microns with washover (‘flot’); submitted material comprised <1 g of shell remains to 3 mm; a further 12.304 kg of sediment from this deposit yielded no additional remains)

A single unidentified land snail apex fragment was recovered from this deposit.

Context 940 [Fill of cremation pit C978] Sample 176 (6.916 kg sieved to 500 microns with washover (‘flot’); submitted material comprised <1 g of shell remains to 5 mm; a further 6.568 kg of sediment from this deposit yielded no additional remains)

A single unidentified land snail apex fragment was recovered from this deposit.

Context 949 [Fill of cremation pit C985] Sample 208 (2.919 kg sieved to 500 microns with washover (‘flot’); submitted material comprised <1 g of “shell” remains to 2 mm; a further 18.798 kg of sediment from this deposit yielded no additional remains)

21 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

On examination under the microscope, the submitted material appeared to be small fragments of chalk rather than shell.

Context 950 [Fill of cremation pit C979] Sample 180 (4.476 kg sieved to 500 microns with washover (‘flot’); submitted material comprised <1 g of shell remains to 4 mm; a further 12.299 kg of sediment from this deposit yielded no additional remains)

Approximately 80 fragments of shell were recovered from this deposit, most of which were unidentified. Identifiable land snail remains included 1 Vitrea crystallina (Müller)/V. contracta (Westerlund), 1 Vertigo sp., 2 Carychium tridentatum, 3 C. minimum Müller and 3 Carychium sp. (apices). There were also some freshwater forms which included apex fragments of 7 Valvata piscinalis (2 of these were represented by rather larger percentages of a whole shell than the others), 1 Gyraulus albus (Müller) and 1 Bathyomphalus contortus (L.), together with 7 other unidentified planorbid apices and 2 Pisidium sp. valves; the last probably representing a single individual.

Discussion 6.5 Identifiable mollusc remains from these deposits were few and the assemblages too small for detailed interpretation. The presence of small numbers of at least 4 aquatic taxa in the fill of cremation pit C979 (Context 950) was perhaps worthy of note, however. If these remains were introduced at the time of the burial of the cremated remains then they may derive from water deliberately buried with the cremated individual or accidental inclusions from water used to cool the remains from the cremation pyre. However, as the site is located at the edge of the floodplain of the River Skane, the remains may simply have been redeposited from earlier alluvial layers during the burial of the cremated bone.

7. Sources Archaeological Services 2008a Clowanstown 3, Co Meath, Ireland; plant macrofossil, charcoal and cremated bone analysis; M3 Motorway Project, Co Meath, Ireland, Archaeological Services Durham University report 1934, for Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd

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Archaeological Services 2008b Garretstown 2, Co Meath, Ireland; plant macrofossil, charcoal and cremated bone analysis; M3 Motorway Project, Co Meath, Ireland, Archaeological Services Durham University report 1930, for Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd

Archaeological Services 2008c Killeany 1, Co Laois, Ireland; environmental analysis, Archaeological Services Durham University report 1895, for Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd

Archaeological Services 2008d Derrinsallagh 3, Co Laois, Ireland; environmental analysis, Archaeological Services Durham University report 1885, for Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd Archaeological Services 2009a Baronstown 1, Co Meath, Ireland; plant macrofossil, charcoal, cremated bone and mollusc analysis, unpublished report 2035, for Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd, Archaeological Services Durham University

Archaeological Services 2009b Castletown Tara 3, Co Meath, Ireland; plant macrofossil, charcoal, cremated bone and mollusc analysis, unpublished report 2042, for Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd, Archaeological Services Durham University

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Waring, P, 1978 A dictionary of omens and superstitions, London

26 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 1.1: Plant macrofossils and charcoal from the Neolithic cremation pits

Context 924 929 931 932 933 934 Sample 1 160 162-4 157, 159 178, 233, 234 186-8 Feature C926 C964 C931 C962 C963 C982 Material available for radiocarbon dating - 3 3 3 3 3 Volume of flot (ml) - - 200 60 60 2 Residue matrix (relative abundance) Bone (calcined) - - 1 - 1 1 Charcoal 1 1 3 2 2 1 Cracked/angular stones - - 1 1 1 - Flint (total number) - - 1 1 2 2 Mollusc 1 - - - - - Flot matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal 1 - 4 4 - 1 Insect (Beetle elytra) - - - - 1 - Mollusc ------Roots (modern) - - 1 1 1 - Charcoal (g/number of fragments) Total charcoal (g) - 0.544 30.217 8.952 3.022 1.278 Percentage of sample analysed - 100 18 68 100 100 Total charcoal analysed >4mm (g) - 0.544 5.452 6.067 3.022 1.278 Number of analysed charcoal fragments >4mm - 9 107 107 56 23 Alnus glutinosa (Alder) - - 0.044 (2F) 0.365 (6F) - 0.244 (4F) Corylus avellana (Hazel) - 0.069 (2F) 2.883 (48F) 0.440 (11F) 0.721 (18F) 0.380 (10F) Fraxinus excelsior (Ash) ------Hedera helix (Ivy) - - 0.052 (1F) - - - Maloideae (Hawthorn, whitebeams, apple, pear) - - 0.076 (2F) 0.131 (1F) 0.072 (1F) - Prunus spp (Cherries) ------Quercus sp (Oak) - 0.475 (7F) 2.397 (54F) 5.097 (88F) 1.833 (33F) 0.654 (9F) Salicaceae (Willow or poplar) - - - 0.034 (1F) - - Sambucus nigra (Elder) ------Ulmus sp (Elm) ------Unidentified >4mm fraction - - - - 0.396 (4F) - Charred remains (total number) (a) Tripleurospermum inodorum (Scentless Mayweed) achene - - - - 1 - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) large grain - - 3 - - - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) small grain - - 2 - - - (c) Cerealia indeterminate grain - - 7 1 8 - (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain ------(c) Hordeum spp (Hulled Barley) grain ------(c) Hordeum spp var. nudum (Naked Barley) grain ------(c) Pisum sativum (Pea) fruit - - 2 - - - (c) Triticum cf. aestivum (cf. Bread Wheat) grain - - 8 - - - (c) Triticum cf. dicoccum (cf. Emmer Wheat) grain - - - - 9 - (c) Triticum dicoccum (Emmer Wheat) glume base - - - - 2 - (c) Triticum dicoccum (Emmer Wheat) spikelet fork - - - - 1 - (c) Triticum spp (Wheat species) grain - - - 1 - - (r) Plantago lanceolata (Ribwort Plantain) seed ------(t) Corylus avellana (Hazelnut) nutshell frag. - 3 12 3 10 7 (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) endocarp frag. - - 1 6 214 1 (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) pip - - - 1 22 - (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) pip frag. - - - - 25 - (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) stalk - - - - 2 - (t) Rosaceae undifferentiated (Rose family) thorn - - 1 - - - (t) Sambucus nigra (Elder) fruitstone ------(x) Poaceae undifferentiated >2mm (Grass family) caryopsis ------Uncharred remains (relative abundance) (a) Chenopodium album (Fat-hen) seed - - - - 1 - (a) Fallopia convulvulus (Black Bindweed) nutlet ------(a) Fumaria spp (Fumitory) seed ------(r) Urtica dioica (Common Nettle) achene - - - 1 - - (t) Sambucus nigra (Elder) fruitstone - - - - 1 - (w) Carex spp (Sedges) trigonous nutlet ------(x) Chenopodium spp (Goosefoot) seed - - - - - 1 (x) Ranunculus subgenus Ranunculus (Buttercup) achene - - 1 - 1 -

[a-arable weed; c-cultivated plant; r-ruderal; t-tree/shrub; w-wetland; x-wide niche]. F = number of charcoal fragments. Relative abundance is based on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest)

27 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 1.1: continued

Context 935 937 938 939 940 941 Sample 221-5 171 173-4 177, 179 175-6 189-197 Feature C983 C980 C973 C975 C978 C984 Material available for radiocarbon dating 3 3 3 3 3 3 Volume of flot (ml) 100 40 3 25 10 50 Residue matrix (relative abundance) Bone (calcined) 1 - 1 2 1 1 Charcoal 2 2 2 3 2 3 Cracked/angular stones - 2 - 2 - - Flint (total number) 3 3 2 3 1 1 Mollusc - - - 1 - - Flot matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal 4 4 2 3 1 3 Insect (Beetle elytra) - - - 1 - - Mollusc ------Roots (modern) 1 - - 1 1 1 Charcoal (g/number of fragments) Total charcoal (g) 13.380 2.598 2.499 10.440 1.644 9.867 Percentage of sample analysed 64 100 100 100 100 70 Total charcoal analysed >4mm (g) 8.566 2.598 2.499 10.440 1.644 6.867 Number of analysed charcoal fragments >4mm 106 50 26 104 27 103 Alnus glutinosa (Alder) 0.238 (6F) 0.083 (4F) 0.130 (2F) - - 0.246 (3F) Corylus avellana (Hazel) 2.459 (31F) 0.970 (17F) 1.346 (11F) 5.650 (49F) 0.755 (14F) 1.153 (14F) Fraxinus excelsior (Ash) ------Hedera helix (Ivy) ------Maloideae (Hawthorn, whitebeams, apple, pear) - 0.119 (3F) - 0.343 (5F) 0.027 (1F) 0.155 (3F) Prunus spp (Cherries) - 0.014 (1F) - - - - Quercus sp (Oak) 5.663 (67F) 0.992 (22F) 0.866 (11F) 2.833 (39F) 0.754 (11F) 5.154 (81F) Salicaceae (Willow or poplar) - - - - - 0.159 (2F) Sambucus nigra (Elder) - - - 0.705 (7F) - - Ulmus sp (Elm) 0.206 (2F) - - 0.140 (1F) - - Unidentified >4mm fraction - 0.420 (3F) 0.157 (2F) 0.769 (3F) 0.108 (1F) - Charred remains (total number) (a) Tripleurospermum inodorum (Scentless Mayweed) achene - 1 - - 2 - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) large grain ------(c) Avena spp (Oat species) small grain - 1 - - - - (c) Cerealia indeterminate grain - 21 20 2 1 15 (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain - - 6 1 2 1 (c) Hordeum spp (Hulled Barley) grain ------(c) Hordeum spp var. nudum (Naked Barley) grain - - - 1 - 1 (c) Pisum sativum (Pea) fruit ------(c) Triticum cf. aestivum (cf. Bread Wheat) grain - 2 2 - - - (c) Triticum cf. dicoccum (cf. Emmer Wheat) grain 3 144 4 - - - (c) Triticum dicoccum (Emmer Wheat) glume base - 5 - - - - (c) Triticum dicoccum (Emmer Wheat) spikelet fork ------(c) Triticum spp (Wheat species) grain - - 3 - 2 1 (r) Plantago lanceolata (Ribwort Plantain) seed - 1 - - - - (t) Corylus avellana (Hazelnut) nutshell frag. 8 14 10 9 6 5 (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) endocarp frag. 142 118 - 213 27 106 (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) pip 3 1 - 36 1 4 (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) pip frag. - - - 8 - - (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) stalk - 1 - - - - (t) Rosaceae undifferentiated (Rose family) thorn ------(t) Sambucus nigra (Elder) fruitstone ------(x) Poaceae undifferentiated >2mm (Grass family) caryopsis - - 3 - 1 1 Uncharred remains (relative abundance) (a) Chenopodium album (Fat-hen) seed - - - 1 1 - (a) Fallopia convulvulus (Black Bindweed) nutlet ------(a) Fumaria spp (Fumitory) seed 1 - - - - - (r) Urtica dioica (Common Nettle) achene - - - - 2 - (t) Sambucus nigra (Elder) fruitstone ------(w) Carex spp (Sedges) trigonous nutlet ------(x) Chenopodium spp (Goosefoot) seed ------(x) Ranunculus subgenus Ranunculus (Buttercup) achene - - - - - 1

[a-arable weed; c-cultivated plant; r-ruderal; t-tree/shrub; w-wetland; x-wide niche]. F = number of charcoal fragments. Relative abundance is based on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest)

28 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 1.1: continued

Context 947 949 950 957 985 211-217, 205-209, Sample 227, 238, 180-3 204 219 218-9 239 Feature C987 C985 C979 C981 - Material available for radiocarbon dating 3 3 3 - 3 Volume of flot (ml) 200 3 5 - <1 Residue matrix (relative abundance) Bone (calcined) 1 - - - - Charcoal 2 2 2 1 - Cracked/angular stones 1 - - - - Flint (total number) 5 1 - - - Mollusc - - - - - Flot matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal 5 1 1 - - Insect (Beetle elytra) 1 - - - - Mollusc 1 - - - - Roots (modern) - 1 1 - - Charcoal (g/number of fragments) Total charcoal (g) 23.427 2.024 2.404 - 0.075 Percentage of sample analysed 27 100 100 - 100 Total charcoal analysed >4mm (g) 6.276 2.024 2.404 - 0.075 Number of analysed charcoal fragments >4mm 104 37 37 - 3 Alnus glutinosa (Alder) 0.118 (2F) 1.112 (16F) 0.110 (4F) - - Corylus avellana (Hazel) 1.492 (26F) 0.164 (4F) 0.194 (3F) - - Fraxinus excelsior (Ash) - 0.036 (1F) - - - Hedera helix (Ivy) - - - - - Maloideae (Hawthorn, whitebeams, apple, pear) 0.209 (1F) - - - 0.019 (1F) Prunus spp (Cherries) - - - - - Quercus sp (Oak) 4.457 (75F) 0.712 (16F) 1.833 (26F) - 0.056 (2F) Salicaceae (Willow or poplar) - - - - - Sambucus nigra (Elder) - - - - - Ulmus sp (Elm) - - 0.052 (1F) - - Unidentified >4mm fraction - - 0.215 (3F) - - Charred remains (total number) (a) Tripleurospermum inodorum (Scentless Mayweed) achene - - - - - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) large grain - - - - - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) small grain - - - - - (c) Cerealia indeterminate grain 2 1 1 - - (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain 9 1 2 - - (c) Hordeum spp (Hulled Barley) grain 1 - - - - (c) Hordeum spp var. nudum (Naked Barley) grain - - - - - (c) Pisum sativum (Pea) fruit - - - - - (c) Triticum cf. aestivum (cf. Bread Wheat) grain - - - - - (c) Triticum cf. dicoccum (cf. Emmer Wheat) grain - - - - - (c) Triticum dicoccum (Emmer Wheat) glume base - - - - - (c) Triticum dicoccum (Emmer Wheat) spikelet fork - - - - - (c) Triticum spp (Wheat species) grain 3 1 - - - (r) Plantago lanceolata (Ribwort Plantain) seed - - - - - (t) Corylus avellana (Hazelnut) nutshell frag. 11 4 2 - 3 (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) endocarp frag. 312 11 12 - - (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) pip 10 - - - - (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) pip frag. - - - - - (t) Malus sylvestris (Crab apple) stalk - - - - - (t) Rosaceae undifferentiated (Rose family) thorn - - - - - (t) Sambucus nigra (Elder) fruitstone 1 - - - - (x) Poaceae undifferentiated >2mm (Grass family) caryopsis 1 - - - - Uncharred remains (relative abundance) (a) Chenopodium album (Fat-hen) seed - - - - - (a) Fallopia convulvulus (Black Bindweed) nutlet 1 - - - - (a) Fumaria spp (Fumitory) seed 1 - - - - (r) Urtica dioica (Common Nettle) achene - - - - - (t) Sambucus nigra (Elder) fruitstone - - - - - (w) Carex spp (Sedges) trigonous nutlet 1 - - - - (x) Chenopodium spp (Goosefoot) seed - - - - - (x) Ranunculus subgenus Ranunculus (Buttercup) achene 1 - - - -

[a-arable weed; c-cultivated plant; r-ruderal; t-tree/shrub; w-wetland; x-wide niche]. F = number of charcoal fragments. Relative abundance is based on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest)

29 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 1.2: Plant macrofossil and charcoal from the early medieval curvilinears, ditches and gully

Context 16 19 22 24 37 61 64 Sample 21 10, 29 19 20 16 24 39

Curvilinear Curvilinear Curvilinear Curvilinear Curvilinear Curvilinear Curvilinear Feature C262 C119 B B C262 C262 C262

Material available for radiocarbon dating 3 3 3 3 - - 3 Volume of flot (ml) - 10 110 3 - - - Residue matrix (relative abundance) Bone (calcined) - - - 1 - - - Charcoal 1 1 3 2 - 2 1 Clinker - 2 - - - - - Cracked/angular stones - - 1 1 - - - Metal fragment - - 1 - - - - Mollusc - - - 1 - - - Spheroid hammerscale ------Tooth (total number of fragments) ------Flot matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal - - 4 - - - - Clinker - - 2 - - - - Mollusc - - 1 1 - - - Roots (modern) - 1 1 1 - - - Charcoal (g/number of fragments) Total charcoal (g) 0.328 0.374 21.987 1.951 - 1.089 2.584 Percentage of sample analysed 100 100 46 100 - 100 100 Total charcoal analysed >4mm (g) 0.328 0.374 10.045 1.951 - 1.089 2.584 Number of analysed charcoal fragments >4mm 3 4 112 24 - 5 5 Alnus glutinosa (Alder) - - 0.262 (3F) - - - - Corylus avellana (Hazel) 0.080 (1F) - 5.267 (40F) 0.451 (5F) - 0.131 (1F) - Corylus / Alnus (Hazel / Alder) - - 0.952 (21F) - - - - Fraxinus excelsior (Ash) - - 0.675 (10F) 0.150 (4F) - 0.193 (1F) - Maloideae (Hawthorn, whitebeams, apple, pear) - - 0.031 (1F) - - - - Prunus spp (Cherries) - 0.374 (4F) 0.090 (1F) 0.415 (6F) - - - Quercus sp (Oak) - - 0.500 (4F) 0.149 (2F) - - 0.309 (1F) Salicaceae (Willow or poplar) ------Viburnum opulus (Guelder-rose) ------Diffuse porous - - 1.325 (21F) - - - - Unidentified >4mm fraction 0.248 (2F) - 0.943 (11F) 0..786 (7F) - 0.765 (3F) 2.275 (4F) Charred remains (total number) (a) Fallopia convolvulus (Black Bindweed) nutlet ------(c) Avena sativa (Cultivated Oat) floret base ------(c) Avena spp (Oat species) large grain - 7 - - - - - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) small grain - 19 7 - - - - (c) Cerealia indeterminate grain - 20 - - - - - (c) Cerealia indeterminate culm nodes ------(c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain - 174 43 20 - - - (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain sprouting ------(c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) rachis frag. ------(c) Hordeum spp (Hulled Barley) grain - 4 - - - - - (c) Hordeum vulgare (6-row Barley) twisted grain - 2 - - - - - (c) Hordeum vulgare (6-row Hulled Barley) twisted grain - 2 - - - - - (c) Secale cereale (Rye) grain ------(c) Triticum aestivum (Bread Wheat) rachis frag. ------(c) Triticum cf. aestivum (cf. Bread Wheat) grain ------(c) Triticum spp (Wheat species) grain - - 6 - - - - (r) Persicaria maculosa (Redshank) nutlet - 1 - - - - - (t) Rubus fruticosus agg. (Bramble) fruitstone ------(t) Sambucus nigra (Elder) fruitstone ------(w) Carex spp (Sedges) trigonous nutlet - - 1 - - - - (x) Rumex spp (Dock) nutlet ------Uncharred remains (relative abundance) (a) Fumaria spp (Fumitory) seed - - 1 - - - -

[a-arable weed; c-cultivated plant; r-ruderal; t-tree/shrub; w-wetland; x-wide niche]. F = number of charcoal fragments. R = riffled. Relative abundance is based on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest)

30 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 1.2: continued

Context 82 123 124 127 131 132 138 Sample 23 98 25, 99 83 88 89 3, 93 Curvilinear Ditch G Ditch G Ditch Ditch Ditch Ditch H Feature B C905 C1025 C905 C905 C905

Material available for radiocarbon dating 3 3 3 - 3 3 3 Volume of flot (ml) <1 2 200R - 3 2 1 Residue matrix (relative abundance) Bone (calcined) ------1 Charcoal 2 - 2 - 1 - 2 Clinker ------Cracked/angular stones ------Metal fragment ------Mollusc ------Spheroid hammerscale ------1 Tooth (total number of fragments) ------Flot matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal - - 2 - - - 1 Clinker ------Mollusc 1 ------Roots (modern) ------Charcoal (g/number of fragments) Total charcoal (g) 1.543 - 3.362 - 0.873 - 2.044 Percentage of sample analysed 100 - 100 - 100 - 100 Total charcoal analysed >4mm (g) 1.543 - 3.362 - 0.873 - 2.044 Number of analysed charcoal fragments >4mm 10 - 48 - 9 - 14 Alnus glutinosa (Alder) ------Corylus avellana (Hazel) - - 0.865 (19F) - 0.386 (5F) - 0.108 (2F) Corylus / Alnus (Hazel / Alder) 0.073 (1F) ------Fraxinus excelsior (Ash) 0.365 (4F) - 0.171 (4F) - - - 0.888 (4F) Maloideae (Hawthorn, whitebeams, apple, pear) - - 0.298 (1F) - - - - Prunus spp (Cherries) ------Quercus sp (Oak) - - 1.669 (15F) - 0.240 (3F) - 0.078 (1F) Salicaceae (Willow or poplar) ------Viburnum opulus (Guelder-rose) - - 0.173 (5F) - - - - Diffuse porous 0.322 (1F) - - - - - 0.435 (4F) Unidentified >4mm fraction 0.783 (4F) - 0.186 (4F) - 0.247 (1F) - 0.535 (3F) Charred remains (total number) (a) Fallopia convolvulus (Black Bindweed) nutlet ------(c) Avena sativa (Cultivated Oat) floret base - - 1 - - - - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) large grain - - 136 - - - - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) small grain - 7 244 - 1 - - (c) Cerealia indeterminate grain - - 70 - 12 2 - (c) Cerealia indeterminate culm nodes - - 1 - - - - (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain - 7 1993 - 61 33 - (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain sprouting - - 4 - - - - (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) rachis frag. ------(c) Hordeum spp (Hulled Barley) grain - 2 176 - - 6 - (c) Hordeum vulgare (6-row Barley) twisted grain - - 40 - 2 - - (c) Hordeum vulgare (6-row Hulled Barley) twisted grain - - 4 - - - - (c) Secale cereale (Rye) grain - - 8 - - - - (c) Triticum aestivum (Bread Wheat) rachis frag. ------(c) Triticum cf. aestivum (cf. Bread Wheat) grain ------(c) Triticum spp (Wheat species) grain - - 12 - - - - (r) Persicaria maculosa (Redshank) nutlet ------(t) Rubus fruticosus agg. (Bramble) fruitstone ------(t) Sambucus nigra (Elder) fruitstone ------(w) Carex spp (Sedges) trigonous nutlet ------(x) Rumex spp (Dock) nutlet - 1 - - - - - Uncharred remains (relative abundance) (a) Fumaria spp (Fumitory) seed ------

[a-arable weed; c-cultivated plant; r-ruderal; t-tree/shrub; w-wetland; x-wide niche]. F = number of charcoal fragments. R = riffled. Relative abundance is based on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest)

31 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 1.2: continued

Context 139 142 250 345 444 496 542 720 Sample 4 2, 117 113 123 118 1 12 1

Ditch Ditch Ditch Ditch M Ditch A Ditch H Gully Feature Ditch P C905 C905 C900 C905 C721

Material available for radiocarbon dating 3 3 - 3 - - - - Volume of flot (ml) - 1 - 300R 1 1 - - Residue matrix (relative abundance) Bone (calcined) - - - 1 1 - 2 - Charcoal 1 3 - 2 1 - 1 1 Clinker - - - 2 - - - - Cracked/angular stones ------Metal fragment ------Mollusc ------Spheroid hammerscale ------Tooth (total number of fragments) - - - 1 - - 1 - Flot matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal - 1 - 3 1 - - - Clinker ------Mollusc ------Roots (modern) - 1 - 1 - - - - Charcoal (g/number of fragments) Total charcoal (g) 0.087 1.871 - 8.790 - - - - Percentage of sample analysed 100 100 - 100 - - - - Total charcoal analysed >4mm (g) 0.087 1.871 - 8.790 - - - - Number of analysed charcoal fragments >4mm 1 18 - 114 - - - - Alnus glutinosa (Alder) ------Corylus avellana (Hazel) - 0.641 (5F) - 5.233 (77F) - - - - Corylus / Alnus (Hazel / Alder) ------Fraxinus excelsior (Ash) - 0.504 (5F) - 0.537 (12F) - - - - Maloideae (Hawthorn, whitebeams, apple, pear) ------Prunus spp (Cherries) 0.087 (1F) - - 0.154 (1F) - - - - Quercus sp (Oak) - - - 2.035 (14F) - - - - Salicaceae (Willow or poplar) - - - 0.715 (8F) - - - - Viburnum opulus (Guelder-rose) ------Diffuse porous - 0.131 (2F) ------Unidentified >4mm fraction - 0.595 (6F) - 0.116 (2F) - - - - Charred remains (total number) (a) Fallopia convolvulus (Black Bindweed) nutlet - - - 4 - - - - (c) Avena sativa (Cultivated Oat) floret base ------(c) Avena spp (Oat species) large grain - - - 752 - - - - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) small grain - 3 - 684 - 3 - - (c) Cerealia indeterminate grain - 3 - 688 - 8 - - (c) Cerealia indeterminate culm nodes - - - 1 - - - - (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain - 4 - 1328 - - - - (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain sprouting ------(c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) rachis frag. - - - 27 - - - - (c) Hordeum spp (Hulled Barley) grain - - - 104 - - - - (c) Hordeum vulgare (6-row Barley) twisted grain - - - 16 - - - - (c) Hordeum vulgare (6-row Hulled Barley) twisted grain ------(c) Secale cereale (Rye) grain ------(c) Triticum aestivum (Bread Wheat) rachis frag. - - - 32 - - - - (c) Triticum cf. aestivum (cf. Bread Wheat) grain - 1 - 1354 - 4 - - (c) Triticum spp (Wheat species) grain - - - 16 - - - - (r) Persicaria maculosa (Redshank) nutlet ------(t) Rubus fruticosus agg. (Bramble) fruitstone - - - 4 - - - - (t) Sambucus nigra (Elder) fruitstone - - - 1 - - - - (w) Carex spp (Sedges) trigonous nutlet ------(x) Rumex spp (Dock) nutlet - - - 14 - - - - Uncharred remains (relative abundance) (a) Fumaria spp (Fumitory) seed ------

[a-arable weed; c-cultivated plant; r-ruderal; t-tree/shrub; w-wetland; x-wide niche]. F = number of charcoal fragments. R = riffled. Relative abundance is based on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest)

32 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 1.3: Plant macrofossils and charcoal from the early medieval kilns

Context 387 609 644 646 687 689 838 840 Sample 114 153 138 133 149 151 147 154 Feature Kiln 1 Kiln 2 Kiln 3 C921 Kiln C921 Kiln 2 C883 Kiln C883 Kiln 2 Kiln 2 Material available for radiocarbon dating 3 3 3 3 3 - 3 3 Volume of flot (ml) 80 400R 1 - 3 - 3 5 Residue matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal 3 3 - 1 1 1 - 1 Clinker 2 ------Flot matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal 3 4 - - 1 - - - Mollusc ------1 Roots (modern) - - 1 - 1 - 1 - Charcoal (g/number of fragments) Total charcoal (g) 6.553 95.892 - 0.143 0.021 - - 0.082 Percentage of sample analysed 100 20 - 100 100 - - 100 Total charcoal analysed >4mm (g) 6.553 19.201 - 0.143 0.021 - - 0.082 Number of analysed charcoal fragments >4mm 126 102 - 1 1 - - 2 Alnus glutinosa (Alder) 5.294 (98F) 2.661 (11F) ------Corylus avellana (Hazel) 0.639 (13F) 12.675 (54F) - 0.143 (1F) - - - 0.082 (2F) Corylus / Alnus (Hazel / Alder) 0.363 (11F) ------Fraxinus excelsior (Ash) 0.014 (1F) 3.747 (36F) - - 0.021 (1F) - - - Prunus spp (Cherries) 0.100 (2F) 0.118 (1F) ------Unidentified >4mm fraction 0.143 (1F) ------Charred remains (total number) (a) Chrysanthemum segetum (Corn Marigold) achene 1 ------(a) Fallopia convolvulus (Black Bindweed) nutlet - 4 ------(c) Avena spp (Oat species) large grain 26 232 ------(c) Avena spp (Oat species) small grain 43 504 1 - 8 - - - (c) Cerealia indeterminate grain 79 224 - - 3 - 1 - (c) Cerealia indeterminate culm nodes 1 ------(c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain 144 2450 4 - 82 - 18 70 (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) indet rachis frag. 16 1 - - 1 - - - (c) Hordeum spp (Hulled Barley) grain 85 64 - - 4 - - - (c) Hordeum vulgare (6-row Barley) twisted grain - 48 - - 2 - - - (c) Hordeum vulgare (6-row Hulled Barley) twisted grain 2 ------(c) Triticum aestivum (Bread Wheat) rachis frag. 25 ------(c) Triticum cf. aestivum (cf. Bread Wheat) grain 198 680 - - - - - 58 (c) Triticum spp (Wheat species) grain - - - - 4 - - - (r) Galeopsis spp (Hemp-nettle) nutlet - 4 ------(r) Galium aparine (Cleavers) seed 1 ------

[a-arable weed; c-cultivated plant; r-ruderal]. F = number of charcoal fragments. Relative abundance is based on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). R = riffled.

33 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 1.4: Plant macrofossil and charcoal from the early medieval pits

Context 328 525 545 652 662 677 678 956 969 970 971 Sample 1 139 123 142 1 144 145 169 168 167 1, 170 Feature Pit C388 Pit C706 Pit C760 Pit C679 Pit C665 Pit C679 Pit C679 Pit C998 Pit C998 Pit C998 Pit C998 Material available for radiocarbon dating 3 - 3 3 - 3 3 3 3 3 3 Volume of flot (ml) 1 - - - - 3 1 3 25 10 4 Residue matrix (relative abundance) Bone (calcined) - 1 - 1 - 1 1 - - - - Charcoal 1 1 - 1 1 1 - 1 1 1 1 Flot matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal - - - - - 1 - - - - 1 Crinoid (Pre-Quaternary fossils) ------1 - Roots (modern) 1 - - - - 1 - 1 - - 1 Charcoal (g/number of fragments) Total charcoal (g) - - 0.412 - - 0.21 - - - - 0.307 Percentage of sample analysed - - 100 - - 100 - - - - 100 Total charcoal analysed >4mm (g) - - 0.412 - - 0.21 - - - - 0.307 Number of analysed charcoal fragments >4mm - - 4 - - 3 - - - - 8 Corylus avellana (Hazel) - - 0.136 (2F) - - 0.179 (2F) - - - - - Prunus spp (Cherries) - - - - - 0.032 (1F) - - - - - Quercus sp (Oak) ------0.307 (8F) Salicaceae (Willow or poplar) - - 0.154 (1F) ------Bark (Indeterminate) - - 0.122 (1F) ------Charred remains (total number) (a) Fallopia convolvulus (Black bindweed) nutlet ------1 - 2 - (c) Avena sativa (Cultivated oats) floret base ------1 - - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) large grain ------22 50 47 - (c) Avena spp (Oat species) small grain 1 - - - - 1 - 17 70 49 7 (c) Cerealia indeterminate grain 2 - - - - 1 2 2 20 - - (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain 10 - - 1 - 70 2 89 264 95 26 (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) rachis frag. ------1 6 1 - (c) Hordeum spp (Hulled Barley) grain - - - - - 15 - 3 74 35 2 (c) Hordeum vulgare (6-row Barley) twisted grain ------2 - 10 7 - (c) Triticum spp (Wheat species) grain - - - - - 3 - - - - - (r) Persicaria maculosa (Redshank) nutlet ------1 1 - (r) Plantago lanceolata (Ribwort plantain) nutlet ------1 - (w) Carex spp (Sedges) triogonous nutlet ------(x) Brassicaceae undifferentiated (Cabbage family) seed ------1 - (x) Chenopodium spp (Goosefoot) seed - - - - - 2 - - - - - (x) Rumex spp (Dock) nutlet ------2 8 1 -

[a-arable; c-cultivated plant; r-ruderal; w: wetland; x-wide niche]. F = number of charcoal fragments. Relative abundance is based on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest)

34 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 1.5: Plant macrofossils and charcoal from the early medieval postholes

Context 196 292 293 477 481 482 555 989 Sample 32 55 56 80 74 75 129 236 Feature C197 C294 C294 C480 C485 C485 C557 C990 Material available for radiocarbon dating ------3 3 Volume of flot (ml) - <1 - - - - <1 - Residue matrix (relative abundance) Bone (calcined) 1 - - - - 1 - - Charcoal 1 1 1 1 1 1 - 1 Flot matrix (relative abundance) Charcoal - 1 ------Charcoal (g/number of fragments) Total charcoal (g) 0.064 ------0.377 Percentage of sample analysed 100 ------100 Total charcoal analysed >4mm (g) 0.064 ------0.377 Number of analysed charcoal fragments >4mm 2 ------6 Maloideae (Hawthorn, whitebeams, apple, pear) ------0.377 (6F) Quercus sp (Oak) 0.015 (1F) ------Unidentified >4mm fraction 0.049 (1F) ------Charred remains (total number) (c) Hordeum spp (Barley species) grain ------6 - (c) Hordeum spp (Hulled Barley) grain ------3 -

[c-cultivated plant]. F = number of charcoal fragments. Relative abundance is based on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest)

35 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Appendix 2: Catalogue of the possible human bone

Context 931 Skull - Axial - Upper Limb Two adjoining fragments of radius head? Lower Limb - Unidentified long bone shaft fragments (x2), 1.3g

36 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

APPENDIX 8 Medieval pottery: Niamh Doyle

Medieval pottery from Castletown Tara 1, Contract 2 A008/025 E3078 By Niamh Doyle MA MIAI

The medieval pottery assemblage from Castletown Tara 1 is comprised of four fragments of local medieval pottery from the County Meath area, ranging in date from the 13th-14th century.

Methodology These fragments were identified visually in accordance with existing typologies. A brief description of fabric and decoration is given. The different types of pottery are presented in tabular form. Medieval vessel types and styles of manufacture were identified in accordance with the Medieval Pottery Research Group’s classification of ceramic forms (1998). Both medieval and post medieval types were identified based on information from published excavations in Ireland and existing typologies. The table in figure x illustrates the number of sherds of each pottery type within the assemblage.

Dating Date ranges for the pottery types are based on published dates for the production and distribution of pottery excavated from archaeological sites in Ireland, England and the United States of America.

Medieval Pottery Licence Context Find number links Category Type Part Number A008/025 4 1 Ceramic Local medieval Body fragment A008/025 12 2 Ceramic Local medieval Body fragment A008/025 12 8 Ceramic Local fine ware Body fragment A008/025 12 9 Ceramic Local fine ware Body fragment Figure 1 Catalogue of pottery from Castletown Tara 1, County Meath

Local Medieval pottery Two body fragments of a local medieval type found on multiple sites in County Meath represent a MNR of 2 jars/jugs of this type from Castletown Tara 1. The pottery has a sandy fabric and is orange in colour with inclusions of small stones, haematite, mica and quartz and small pores on the surface. This medieval pottery is similar to the local pottery described by Sands (2006) from Tullykane which, at 3201 sherds, has had the largest assemblage of this type to date. The surface of the pottery is quite abraded, making it difficult to determine if the

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme pottery was hand built or wheel thrown, although it is recorded in both forms at Tullykane (Sandes 2006).

This pottery was also identified within pottery assemblages from excavations in County Meath at Castlefarm 1(Doyle 2007 c), Garretstown 2 (Doyle 2007 b) and Dunboyne 4 (Doyle 2007 a) and is similar to the Killeen-type pottery in the medieval pottery assemblage from Killeen Castle (Doyle 2006). This locally made medieval pottery type has also been found at excavations in County Meath in advance of road works at Rathhill 1, Ross 1 and 2, Roestown 2 and 4, Williamstown Bawn 2, Collierstown 1 and 2, Skreen 2, Dowdstown, Baronstown 1 and Lismullin 1. This local type of pottery from County Meath is different to that identified at Trevit 1, County Meath (Doyle 2007 d) and to the Meath-type ware identified at Pheonixtown 1 (Doyle 2007 e), both of which had a soft, powdery fabric.

Local Fine ware Sands discusses the presence of Dublin-type fineware and a local fineware similar to Trim ware at Tullykane (Sands 2006). Two fragments of this type, with a soft powdery fabric with occasional haematite inclusions, represent a probable MNR of two jugs/jars of this type within the assemblage.

Bibliography Doyle, N. 2007 a. The pottery from Dunboyne 4, County Meath. In Excavations at Dunboyne 4, County Meath. Doyle, N. 2007 b. The pottery from Garretstown 2, County Meath. In Excavations at Garretstown 2, County Meath. Doyle, N. 2007 c. The pottery from Castlefarm 1, County Meath. In Excavations at Castlefarm I, County Meath Doyle, N. 2007 d. The pottery from Trevit 1, County Meath. In Excavations at Trevit 1, County Meath Doyle, N. 2007 e. The pottery from Pheonixtown 1, County Meath. In Excavations at Pheonixtown 1, County Meath. Doyle, N. 2006. The pottery from Site G and Castle Ditch, Killeen Castle, County Meath in C. Baker Excavations at Killeen Castle. MPRG. 1998. A Guide to the Classification of Medieval Ceramic Forms. Great Britain. BAS Printers. Sandes, C. 2006. The Medieval Pottery. In Baker, C. 2006. Tullykane, Co. Meath: A Rural Medieval Settlement.

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APPENDIX 9 Imported pottery: Ian Doyle

The Early Medieval pottery (E ware) from Roestown II, Collierstown I and Castletown Tara, Co Meath

Ian W. Doyle MA MIAI

Introduction The excavations at Roestown II, Collierstown I and Castletown Tara I produced a small quantity of Early Medieval pottery from a range of contexts. This report identifies and describes this material and a background discussion concerning the occurrence of the pottery follows. It should be noted that Mediterranean imports (a Bii/LRA 1 amphora and a PRSW bowl) from Collierstown II have been reported upon separately.

The pottery as excavated was washed and numbered and subsequently examined by the writer. The pottery has been grouped according to type and a minimum number of vessels has been calculated. The size of each sherd is given, as is the thickness and the diameter where possible.

Gaulish imported pottery In summary, there are five sherds of E ware representing two E1 pots from Roestown II, a single sherd of E ware from Collierstown I and two sherds of E ware from Castletown Tara I.

E ware Roestown II A008/002:772:1 and 805:1 Rim sherd from E1 jar. Two well preserved joining sherds. Approximately 20% of the rim circumference. Everted rim with shallow lid seat. Fabric is brown-grey in colour. Rim diameter 17cm, Size 98mm x 31mm, Thickness 6mm C772 fill of pit C1103, C805 fill of ditch C642

A008/002:1449:1 Rim sherd from E1 jar. Weathered, approximately 12% of the rim circumference. Everted rim. Fabric has buff-white internal surface and a grey–black rim and external surface. Rim diameter 16cm, Size 55mm x 22mm, Thickness 6mm Fill of sub-rectangular feature C1453

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

A008/002:131:2 E ware body sherd. Well preserved, fabric has cream-grey internal surface, grey-brown external surface. Shoulder sherd. Size 42mm x 24mm, Thickness 5mm Fill of ditch C282

A008/002:131:3 E ware body sherd. Well preserved, fabric has cream-white surfaces. Size 30mm x 16mm, Thickness 4mm Fill of ditch C282

Castletown Tara I A008/025:287:1 E ware body sherd. Slightly weathered, fabric has cream-white surfaces. Shoulder sherd. Size 54mm x 23mm, Thickness 4mm Fill of ditch C358

A008/025:248:1 E ware body sherd. Slightly weathered, fabric has cream-brown surfaces. Shoulder sherd. Size 35mm x 31mm, Thickness 4mm Fill of ditch C900

Collierstown I A008/015:69:1 E ware rim sherd. Well preserved, but split such that only external face survives. Fabric is buff-brown. Lack of everted rim form suggests that sherd may represent an E5 lid sherd or possibly E3 bowl. This is not ‘imitation PRSW’ (Medieval Archaeology 2008, 370). Rim diameter 19cm, Size 52mm x 21mm, Thickness 6mm Fill of ditch F409

Table 1: Details of pottery by excavated context

Context E ware Comment Area Phase Context Summary Roestown II 772 :1 E1/E4 rim B I A Fill of pit C1103; sherd joins 805:1 805 :1 E1/E4 rim B 2 B Fill of ditch C642 1449 :1 E1/E4 rim Fill of sub-rectangular feature C1453

131 :2,:3 2 E ware A 1A Fill of ditch C282 bodysherds Castletown Tara I 287 :1 E ware bodysherd Fill of ditch C358 248 :1 E ware bodysherd Fill of ditch C900 Collierstown I 69 :1 Possible E5 lid 2 Fill of ditch C409

2 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Discussion The ceramics from Roestown represent the remains of two E1 jars while the sherds from Castletown Tara I and Collierstown I represent single vessels. This material adds to the known quantity of this material in the north Leinster area. Other sites in this area of Co Meath, which are predominantly secular settlements, such as Randalstown, Lagore, Moynagh Lough, Rathoath, have also produced imported pottery of this period (Thomas 1981; Doyle forthcoming).

The presence of imported pottery inland in Co Meath is not surprising given the fact that at least two potential importation points near the coast have been discovered. In 1988 a gas pipeline project uncovered a series of burials and enclosures at Colp West near the mouth of the Boyne. While this archaeological complex was only partly excavated a series of enclosing ditches, an annular gulley and over one hundred extended burials were revealed. Sherds from three Mediterranean amphorae and five to six E ware vessels were found within an enclosure. References to Colp can be cited from the seventh century Muírchu’s Life of Patrick, which refer to ‘Inber Copla/Inber Colpidi’ (Gowen 1989; Charles-Edwards 2000, 16; Doyle 2001). These historical references appear to suggest a landing point at Inber Colptha. Sherds were also recovered during the excavation of a sequence of enclosures near the coast at Ninch near Laytown (Mc Conway 2004). The quantity and frequency of imports at Ninch suggests that this site had direct access to sea borne trade and that imports further inland in Co Meath were perhaps mediated through sites such as Ninch or Colp West.

It is this area between the rivers Liffey and Boyne, which is coeval with the early historic kingdom of Brega that significant quantities of E ware were imported. It is clear that Mediterranean vessels also circulated in smaller quantities in this area, as attested to by finds from Colp West, Lusk, Randalstown and Collierstown I. What is of interest from the archaeological investigations associated with the M3 is the concentration of sherds of E ware in the area around Lagore. The material from the M3 project adds to the growing volume of imported pottery in this part of southern Co Meath. The M3 project has yielded E ware from Collierstown, Garretstown and Roestown, which are all located within close proximity to Lagore crannog. Other finds in this vicinity include sherds of E ware from and Summerhill Demesne. Against the background of the general distribution of E ware pottery in northern Leinster this appears as a distinct cluster away from the known finds closer to the Boyne and the coast. Accordingly, Lagore may have acted as a focal point for trade and subsequent redistribution outwards to locations such as Roestown and others.

3 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

The Collierstown sherd of E ware is notable in that it represents a probable E ware E5 lid This is not ‘imitation PRSW’ (Medieval Archaeology 2008, 370). The sherd lacks the typical everted rim form of E1 jars and is also larger than the typical diameter of the E1 jar. Accordingly, it is potentially an example of an E5 lid. These ceramic lids were conical in shape with an increase in body thickness towards a central raised boss (Campbell 2007, Fig. 33). While a groove or seat to accommodate a lid is a feature on some E1 rim sherds the number of E5 pot lids, which have been recognized, is relatively low. Fragments of E5 lids are known from Dalkey Island, Mount Offaly, Co Dublin, Caherlehillan, Co Kerry, Ballycatteen, Co , Clogher, Co Tyrone, Colp West, and Site M at Knowth, Co Meath. Lids such as these are quite rare and what is equally significant in the Collierstown example is that it was stratified in the same context with a sherd of Phocaean Red Slipware (PRSW). In terms of dating, PRSW is normally assigned to the fifth-sixth centuries AD, whereas the conventional dating for E ware is somewhat later, generally between the late sixth – later seventh centuries AD (Campbell 2007, 46). The presence of two quite rare ceramic forms in a cemetery context is notable and may suggest activity at the site involving consumption or simply the deposition of sherds.

The point of origin of E ware is somewhat unclear, though that it is western Gaul is likely as vessels in similar fabrics are known from post-Roman sites in western France, in Bordeaux in particular and in the regions of the Touraine, Saintonge and Poitou to the north of Bordeaux (Wooding 1996, 77-8). E ware, as a kitchen or table ware, is likely to have been carried as a commodity in ships with wine in wooden casks and possibly with other perishable goods (Thomas 1990). Recently Campbell has argued that E ware should not be seen as a kitchen ware but as a range of containers for goods rather than as pottery per se. The product identified by Campbell is a red dye stuff from the plant Dyer’s Madder, however nuts, spices and honey are suggested products as well as other exotic luxury goods (Walton Rogers 2005; Campbell 2007, 80). E ware has a wide Insular distribution ranging from south-west Britain, southern Wales, the Isle of Man, western Scotland and north-eastern, eastern, southern and midland parts of Ireland. E ware has a more marked Irish distribution with some forty sites in Ireland, primarily with settlement functions, known to have produced this pottery to date.

References Campbell, E. 2007. Continental and Mediterranean Imports to Atlantic Britain and Ireland, AD 400 – 800, CBA Research Report 157, Council for British Archaeology, York Charles-Edwards, T. 2000. Early Christian Ireland, Cambridge Doyle, I.W. 1999 'A 'ceramic platter' of Mediterranean origin from the ringfort of Garranes, Co Cork', Journal of the Cork Historical and Archaeological Society, 104, 69-76.

4 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Doyle, I.W. 2001. ‘The Early Medieval pottery from excavations at Colp West, Co Meath’, unpublished specialist report for MGL Archaeological Consultants. Doyle, I.W. forthcoming ‘Mediterranean and Gaulish pottery imports in Early Medieval Ireland’ Gowen, M 1989. ‘Bord Gaís Eireann Northeastern pipeline, Phase 2 (Dublin – Dundalk), Medieval Archaeology 33, 227-28 Mc Conway, C. 2004. ‘Ninch, Laytown’, in Bennett, I. (ed.) Excavations 2002: Summary Accounts of Archaeological Excavations in Ireland, Bray, 421-24. Thomas, C. 1981. A Provisional list of Imported Pottery in post-Roman Britain and Ireland, Special Report 7, Institute of Cornish Studies, Redruth. Thomas, C. 1990. ‘Gallici nautae de Galliarum provinciis’ - a sixth/seventh century trade with Gaul, reconsidered’ Med. Arch. 34, 1-26. Walton Rogers, P. 2005. ‘Dyestuff analysis on E ware pottery’, in Crone, A. & Campbell, E. 2005. A crannog of the first millennium AD: excavations by Jack Scott at Loch Glashan, Argyll, 1960. Monograph of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Edinburgh, 61-2. Wooding, J.M. 1996. Communication and Commerce along the western sealanes AD 400 – 800, BAR International Series 654, Oxford

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APPENDIX 10 Leather Report: John Nicholl

Archaeological Leather Analysis John Nicholl 68 Ryevale Lawns, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Tel: 01 6245680 Mob: 087 7974593 Email [email protected]

Leather Finds Report for ACS Ltd.

Species Identification Species identification is normally done by a magnified visual examination of the grain surface ie. the hair side of the skin. Every animal has a unique pattern of hair follicles which are visible once the hair or fur is removed. Identification is achieved by comparison of the find with known samples of finished leather. A definite identification is dependant on the grain surface being in relatively good condition with the follicles free of dirt.

Castletown Tara 1, Contract 2 A008/025 E3078 A008/025:291:1

There was only one suggested leather find from this site which was discovered in the fill of posthole C294. It is a very thin and fragile sub rectangular piece measuring approximately L: 15 mm x W: 15mm. The find bag had leaked, leaving the moist fragment adhering to the plastic and it was not possible to remove it for closer examination. It was examined in situ. Neither face shows any sign of a grain surface pattern which would identify an animal species and confirm it as leather. It is possibly a fragment of de-laminated leather but could equally be a remnant of fabric or a flake of corroded metal.

Baronstown 1, Contract 2 A008/017 E3070 Species Identification

6 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

There were three leather finds from this site which were found in Context C1045, the inner enclosure ditch. All three are in a very fragmentary condition. Two of the pieces A008/017:1045:1215 and A008/017:1045:1216 are of cow leather and may be fragments of the same original piece. Both show evidence of a number of irregular knife cuts. A008/017:1045:1214 is from a thinner piece of leather. The grain pattern is clogged and worn making it impossible to give a definite species identification. The pattern that is discernable, together with the thickness of the piece suggests sheep or goat skin.

Catalogue A008/017:1045:1214

A fragment of leather off-cut, roughly half-moon shaped and measuring approximately L: 60mm x W 22mm at its widest point. There is evidence for torn stitch holes along the rounded edge. The remains of the stitch holes and the thickness of the leather suggest it may have been the toe part of a shoe upper which was cut away in antiquity. Two ragged knife cuts are visible across the piece.

A008/017:1045:1215

An irregularly shaped off-cut strip which measures approximately L: 100mm x W: 16mm and is 2mm thick. There are a number of knife cuts made in antiquity along both edges. There is no evidence for stitch holes or any seams on either edge. The thickness and quality of the

7 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme leather is similar to A008/017:1045:1216. The grain surface is quite degraded but can still be identified as cow leather.

A008/017:1045:1216

An irregularly shaped fragment of worked leather with an overall length of approximately L: 160mm and an overall width of 60mm. The inner surface would appear to have traces of fabric impressed on it. The piece has three almost straight edges which show a number of knife cuts in antiquity. There is no evidence for any stitch holes or seams. Although cut to a definite shape which suggests a remnant of a heel or a vamp tongue it is not possible to draw this conclusion. Although two of the edges are cut straight, the third and longest edge shows a number of slightly curving cuts which are not compatible with a heel or vamp piece. The fourth edge is very degraded and torn and the piece must be considered as undiagnostic.

Discussion The fragmentary nature of the leather finds from both Castletown Tara 1 and Baronstown 1 make it impossible to draw any firm conclusions concerning their original uses. However, the numerous knife or tool cuts on the pieces especially the very precise ones on A008/017:1045:1215 suggest that some form of limited leather working activity took place on the site. However, in the absence of any clearly identified leatherworking tools such as awls among the other finds this can only be taken as a very tentative conclusion. Leather finds from Early Medieval Ringfort sites are quite rare and are more usually associated with wetland areas or Crannoga such as Craigywarren (Coffey, G.1906), or Ballinderry 2 (Henken, H. 1942). However, evidence for leatherworking has been found at the Ringfort sites of Lissue, Co. Antrim (Bersu, G. 1947) and Killyliss, Co. Tyrone (Ivens, R. 1984). The finds here consisted of scrap off-cuts such as the three pieces from Baronstown 1 as well as other leather artefacts such as shoes and bags and a number of leatherworking awls.

8 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Bibliography Bersu, G. 1947. The Rath in the Townland of Lissue, Co. Antrim Ulster Journal of Archaeology Vol. 10, pp.30 – 58. Coffey, G. 1906 Craigywarren Crannog Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy, Vol. XXVI, Sect C. pp.116 – 117. Goubitz, O. 2001. Stepping Through Time: Archaeological Footwear from Prehistoric Times until 1800. STA, Zwolle. Henken, H. 1942 Ballinderry Crannog No. 2 Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy Vol. XLVII, Sect. C pp. 56 – 57. Ivens, R. 1984. Killyliss Rath, Co. Tyrone. Ulster Journal of Archaeology, Vol. 47 PG 26-28.

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APPENDIX 11 Archaeometallurgical Report: Angela Wallace

Archaeometallurgical Report on material from Castletown Tara 1 For Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd.

Angela Wallace MSc, MIAI December 2008

Castletown Tara 1 F138, Sample 67 Two small flattish fragments of iron slag with apparent high iron oxide content (rust coloured pieces). Less than 3cm in width, Th. 3mm, Weight 15g

F138 was a fill of ditch F905. As there were only these two very small fragments of iron slag from this site it is most likely the presence of these pieces is incidental, they may be indicative of small-scale smithing or artefact repair.

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

APPENDIX 12 Wood remains: Ellen O’Carroll

WOOD REMAINS FROM EXCAVATIONS ON THE M3 MOTORWAY Castletown Tara 1 A008-025 Ellen O’Carroll September 2008

Introduction Castletown Tara 1 (A008/025, NGR 292003 261818, Castletown Tara townland, Co. Meath) was tested by Paul Stevens in 2004 (04E0429) and was resolved by Stuart Elder (04 December 2006 – 28 March 2007). The site was located on the southern edge of the floodplain of the river Skane (Sceíne) to the south of a field boundary, and immediately west of the present N3 road. The site comprised a series of ditches and drainage gullies, a grain- drying kiln and a small circular stake-built hut.

Very few artefacts were recovered from the site that would assist with the interpretation and dating of the features, besides the Neolithic flint in the cremations, although a copper-alloy needle and two sherds of imported early medieval pottery were recovered from a two of the ditches and a shallow gully in the main excavation area (Area 1). An early medieval date is therefore proposed for the bulk of the activity at Castletown Tara 1.

The analysed sample is listed as a sample of a peg from C88 (lower fill of curvilinear ditch C262).

Methods The wood was carefully examined for signs of toolmarks or surface treatment and was then identified to species under a microscope. Species identification was achieved through taking thin slices from the transversal, tangential and longitudinal sections of each piece of wood using a razor blade. These slices are then mounted on a slide and glycerine painted onto the wood to facilitate identification. Each slide was examined under an E200 Nikon microscope at magnifications of 10x to 500x. By close examination of the microanatomical features of the samples the species can be determined. The diagnostic features used for the identification of wood are micro-structural characteristics such as the vessels and their arrangement, the size and arrangement of rays, vessel pit arrangement and also the type of perforation plates. In some cases the wood remains can not be positively identified if all of the micro characteristics are not present and/or the wood piece is in a very degraded state.

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Results

Table 1: Wood analysis Timber & Type of split and Context no. context Species Wood quality Age Woodworking Recommendation type Evidence Very Fill of Quercus degraded and Charred oak C88 Indt. Discard ditch. Peg. spp covered in attached to clay clay

Discussion & Conclusions One fragment of wood was examined from the assemblage. The wood was in a poor state of degradation and was charred. The charred wood piece was identified as oak (Quercus sp). It is clear that the peg used at the site of Castletown Tara 1 was constructed from oak wood.

Sessile oak (Quercus petraea) and pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) are both native and common in Ireland and the wood of these species can not be differentiated on the basis of their anatomic characteristics. Pedunculate oak is found growing in areas of heavy clays and loams, particularly where the soil is alkaline. Sessile oak is found on acid soils and often in pure stands. Unlike pedunculate oak, it thrives on well-drained soils but is tolerant of flooding (Beckett 1979, 40-41). Both species of oak grow to be very large trees (30-40m high). Oak was one of the most prevalent trees growing in Ireland throughout the medieval period. The anglicised form of the Irish name for oak (derry) is included in many townland names today. Out of 62,000 townlands in Ireland about 1,600 contain the word “derry” in one form or another, either as a prefix or suffix (Mc Cracken 1971, 23). Oak also has unique properties of great durability and strength and was frequently used in the manufacture of posts and wooden plank.

There was no woodworking evidence noted on the post examined from Castltown Tara 1.

References Beckett, J.K., 1979, Planting Native Trees and Shrubs. Jarrold & Sons Ltd, Norwich. McCracken, E., 1971, The Irish Woods Since Tudor Times. Institute of Irish Studies, Belfast.

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APPENDIX 13 Lithics and worked stone report: Graeme Warren

Castletown Tara: chipped and coarse stone Graeme Warren UCD School of Archaeology Jan 2009

Abstract This report discusses an assemblage of chipped and coarse stone objects from Castletown Tara 1, Co. Meath. Recovered form a variety of contexts, the assemblage includes at least three and probably four phases of activity: Late Mesolithic, Early Neolithic, Late Neolithic and Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age. The most interesting assemblages are Later Mesolithic lithics recovered in derived contexts and a repeated suite of objects, arguably a personal tool kit, deposited in a Late Neolithic cremation cemetery.

Introduction This report discusses the chipped and coarse stone assemblage from excavations at Castletown Tara. A total of 112 objects were presented for analysis, excluding natural and non-lithic objects leaves an artefact assemblage comprised of two ‘coarse’ stone tools, and 106 flaked stone objects incorporating cores, debris and debitage. Objects were recovered from a range of contexts across the site but with two main focal areas. Lithics from Area 1a were mainly from a hill wash post dating the early medieval period or in drainage and other ditches dated to this period. Lithics from Area 2b were in association with middle Neolithic cremation pits.

Methodology All artefacts were individually examined macroscopically and were classified according to standard analytical categories (Inizan et al 1999): analysis focused on both technological and typological aspects of the assemblage. Typological definitions provided by Woodman et al (2006) were used where possible, with minor modifications if required. Data was stored in a relational database constructed in Ms Access and analysed in Access and Excel. A full catalogue is appended to this report along with recommendations for illustration. Coarse stone tools are discussed below, but the primary focus of this report, and all statistical analysis, is the chipped assemblage.

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Raw Materials A total of six raw materials are present in the overall assemblage: flint, chert/silicified limestone, a single quartz, a fine grained sedimentary material, shale and a metamorphosed sedimentary material.

Flint (n=93, 87.7%) is the dominant raw material in the chipped stone assemblage. Flint is not available in primary geological contexts in this region but pebble flints can be found on the beaches of this area and within glacial deposits. Both sources are likely to be spatially variable and to provide flints of variable quality and size (Dolan 2005). Glacial deposits, in particular, are likely to contain small and reworked pebbles at best: described as remanié by Woodman et al (2006). Beach deposits can include good material.

A crude macroscopic identification of ‘pebble flint’ (n=7), ‘other flint’ (n=14) and indeterminate flint (n=72) was made. Much of the flint is indeterminate because of the significance of very small chips. “Other” flint, crudely, is identified as grey, mottled flint of high quality and large size; characteristics generally associated with flint from primary geological contexts in the north east of Ireland (not just Antrim). The identification of ‘Antrim’ flint on macroscopic grounds is fraught with difficulties for individual pieces, not least because the use of pebble sources in Antrim is well attested. Nevertheless, at the level of the assemblage, distinctions in the characteristics of flint are present. For example, pebble flint is much more common in Area 1a and fresh flint more significant in Area 2b. Excluding indeterminate flint only 33.3% of the flint from 1a is ‘other’, whereas 92.3% of Area 2b is.

A small amount (n=5) of “chert” is present including two flakes in the cremation pits in area 2b, assumedly of Neolithic date, as well as a classic Bann flake. This material is dark grey- green, and sometimes slightly banded in character, notably less siliceous than high quality black chert. Technically it is not a chert, but a silicified limestone. Considerably analytical slippage exists in differentiating chert and silicified limestones, and as both are found with the same parent geology, the familiar archaeological name is used here (Woodman et al 2006: 83ff). Cherts/silicified limestones are found widely in the Midlands of Ireland and beyond, especially in association with Carboniferous geology. Where present they are locally superabundant. Rocks of this age and general character are common in the region of Castletown Tara, and many other sites in this area demonstrate considerable use of cherts.

A distinctive raw material was used for five flakes including one possible butt trimmed form found in C.11. This material is soft, very light in colour and lightweight. It is not possible to

2 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme identify its geological type precisely, but is some kind of very fine grained sedimentary rock, possibly transformed through decarbonation or other weathering process.

It is unfortunate that many of these other raw materials were recovered from topsoil or cleanback, and are not associated with particular areas of the site. Given that they include distinctive Later Mesolithic forms it is likely that they originate from Area 1a, but it is not possible to be certain. Assuming that they were recovered in Area 1a would suggest that the greater use of pebble flint is connected to a more diverse use of raw materials than is apparent in Area 2b.

COARSE STONE Two coarse stone objects are present.

A shale whetstone (A008/025:059:01) was found in the fills of Curvilinear B, and fits the early medieval date of this feature.

A large coarse stone object (A008/025:144:1) made of quartzite (?) was found in a spread of material. The piece is fragmentary and cannot be assigned to a formal type. It has clearly been shaped, with a strongly convex edge formed by the removal of large flakes. The ‘upper’ surface appears to have been ground, whether in use or in preparation for use cannot be determined. The artefact might be a fragment of a quern, but other uses cannot be rule out, and it is best described as an unclassifiable fragment.

CHIPPED STONE Condition and taphonomy The assemblage varies in condition, as one might anticipate for a group of artefacts found across a large area. The assemblage from Area 1a is most likely redeposited: it includes artefacts typologically dated to both the Later Mesolithic and the Neolithic/Bronze Age but was found in contexts that have a date or terminus post quem of the early medieval period. Frequently lithics from this area are found as single objects in fills of ditches or post holes. Two contexts deserve some attention.

The main hill wash (C12) that accumulated over a early medieval kiln contains two typologically Later Mesolithic artefacts – a tanged butt-trimmed form (A008/025:012:12) and a ‘Bann Flake’ (A008/025:012:16) – as well as two leaf shaped arrowheads (A008/025:012:01, A008/025:012:06) suggestive of a general Neolithic date – and a hollow based arrowhead of Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age date (A008/025:012:18). Flints from

3 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

C.12 have a very distinctive orange/honey coloration created by light patination. This is also recognisable in some stray finds (e.g. A008/025:761:1) and given the date range of the artefacts assumedly post dates the formation of C12. It is interesting to note that this patination is found on Later Mesolithic and (early) Neolithic forms, but not on the (arguably) latest Neolithic/Bronze Age hollow-based arrowhead.

In general, flint artefacts from Area 1a are more likely to be abraded, patinated, edge damaged and broken than from Area 2b. In general this would be in keeping with redeposition, although the distinctive character of the Area 2b assemblage makes any true comparison difficult. Some finds from Area 1a are in very good condition, several flakes are extremely fresh and if redeposited have clearly been reburied rapidly after disturbance: e.g. a butt trimmed piece recovered from C.446, a fill of a post forming part of the post row. In contrast, artefacts from Area 2b are in situ. Burning is much more common in Area 2b and may be associated with the cremation processes.

Primary Technology The assemblage is dominated by debitage with only a single, poor, quartz possible core present. A small number of chips were recovered, but in the main the assemblage is characterised by regular flakes, with smaller numbers of blades and irregular flakes.

Basic_category debitage_type chert/silicified limestone poss. decarbonated Fine Grained Sedimentary (All) Flint Quartz Total

Chip n/a 11 11 Core n/a 0 1 1 Debitage Blade 3 2 11 16

Flake Debitage (indeterminate) 6 1 7 Flake Debitage (irregular) 10 1 11

Debitage Flake (regular) 2 42 44 Indeterminate Debitage fragment 3 7 10 Debris n/a 6 6 Total 5 5 93 3 106 87.7% 106 Figure 1: overall composition of the assemblage from Castletown Tara 1

4 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

The absence of cores is in keeping with the general absence of irregular flakes and chips, and suggests that little stone tool production took place on site. Many smaller flakes and chips, especially from Area 2b, are retouching or rejuvenation pieces associated with the maintenance and/or production of scrapers. The dominance of maintenance flakes in the assemblage from the cremation pits makes statistical comparisons of production related attributes difficult, but some general trends can be noted. At this general level, in Area 1a, dorsal evidence is dominated by parallel removals and most platforms are plain, where as in Area 2b there is slightly more evidence for dihedral or facetted platforms. This would broadly be in keeping with the chronological expectations for the assemblage based on typological criteria (See below). It is important to note the presence of heavily ground platform edges (e.g. A008/025:933:1) in Area 2b.

Secondary technology

cremation pit pit cremation Ditch Posthole wash hill topsoil Total awl 1 1 blade edge retouched 1 2 3 butt trimmed form 1 1 butt trimmed form 1 1 butt trimmed form 'Bann flake' 1 1 2 butt trimmed form tanged ? 1 1 butt trimmed form ? 1 1 flake distally trimmed 2 2 flake edge retouched 1 2 indeterminate retouched fragment 1 1 indeterminate retouched fragment 2 1 3 invasively retouched form 1 1 notched form 1 1 projectile hollow based 1 1 projectile leaf shaped 2 2 scraper convex 6 1 7 scraper rejuvenation flake 1 1 unclassifiable 1 1 2 Total 14 4 1 10 4 33

Figure 2: retouched pieces from Castletown Tara I, sub-divided by broad context

5 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

A total of 33 chipped stone artefacts have received edge modification, of these 30 are in flint (90.9%). Edge modification is variable in kind, from light blunting or stabilisation of edges through to invasive retouch covering the surface of the artefacts. The retouched assemblage includes a small number of fragmentary or unclassifiable pieces, but is dominated by butt- trimmed pieces, projectiles and scrapers.

Butt-Trimmed & Related Forms Five definite and one possible butt-trimmed forms were recovered as well as two distally trimmed pieces, all from hill wash, topsoil or redeposited contexts. These pieces are varied in materials and form: four are of flint, one from pebble flint, one from chert and the possible example from the fine grained sedimentary rock. The characteristics of this material, and the extent of abrasion, make the identification of retouch difficult, but it appears that the butt of this piece has been modified. Only one artefact (A008/025:012:16) is a formal ‘Bann Flake’ according to published criteria (Woodman et al 2006) but one other piece (A008/025:095:01) is very similar, being distinguished only by the length of the trimmed zone. A008/025:012:12 is possibly tanged, although the loss of part of the proximal end makes this formal identification difficult. The piece is also distally trimmed.

Woodman et al (2006: 123ff) discuss the chronological range of butt-trimmed forms, arguing that very broad ‘Bann Flakes’ lie late in the sequence and tanged forms earlier. The ambiguous status of the ‘tanged’ example from Castletown does not allow any chronological significance. A008/025:012:16 is broad, and would therefore be in keeping with the latter parts of the Mesolithic, but the difficulties of reliably dating such a small number of artefacts through morphological comparisons in this manner should be clear. At best we can discuss Later Mesolithic activity, with a possibility that this takes pace late within the Later Mesolithic. Given the low numbers of artefacts found on many Later Mesolithic sites (see below for discussion) it is also possible that the five or six objects represent multiple episodes of activity.

Two distally trimmed flakes from ditch fills (A008/025:345:1 and A008/025:761:1) are both characterised by very light distal trimming on leaf shaped flakes.

A008/025:012:16 is notable for the presence of a distinctive pigment in patches on the dorsal surface of the artefact. This is a red/pink coloured pigment with dark spots visible under magnification. Similar red deposits may be present on A008/025:04:10, A008/025:012:19 and A008/025:345:01 – all from Area 1a. It may be significant that this staining is only present in the area with a concentration of Mesolithic artefacts, and is present on one

6 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme distinctive Mesolithic object. Without more detailed examination it is not possible to assess the character of this pigment which has most likely been affected by the washing of the artefacts. It is possibly ochre, which was sometimes applied to stone tools in prehistoric Europe (Woodman 1985, Wentink 2005). Further analysis is recommended.

Projectile Points Three projectile points were recovered from hill wash (C.11) including two leaf-shaped arrowheads and a hollow-based arrowhead. All are of flint.

The two leaf shaped arrowheads are both fairly small and neither show evidence of tip fractures characteristic of use. A008/025:012:01 has been recently damaged, with both the tip and base removed. Morphologically it conforms to Green’s type 2, but given the breakage it is difficult to classify in more detail (Green 1980). A008/025:012:06 is also broken, again with the base missing, but this break is ancient. The artefact is small, only 10mm wide, and approaches an elongated form. A008/025:012:18 is a hollow-based arrowhead with a concave base: damage has removed the tip and the end of one barb. It is very finely retouched, and is a much more formal artefact that the leaf-shaped examples.

Leaf-shaped forms are widely associated with the early Neolithic but it has always been more difficult to assess when they fell out of use. Woodman et al (2006: 129) argue that it is possible that leaf-shaped forms ‘had ceased to be used well before the end of Middle Neolithic’. In contrast, Woodman et al argue that (2006: 135ff) hollow based arrowheads should date to after the Middle Neolithic, possibly to the Beaker period. Given that all are found in a derived context it is interesting to note that the two leaf-shaped arrowheads are lightly patinated but not abraded, whilst the hollow-based arrowhead is not patinated, but is abraded. This offers some confirmation of the typological argument that the two objects should date to different periods.

Scrapers A total of seven scrapers and one probable scraper rejuvenation flake were recovered. Seven of these artefacts were found in cremation pits with one scraper from ditch fills: in all instances only one scraper was found in each pit and only two cremation pits did not contain a scraper. All examples are convex scrapers, mainly dominated by large circular examples with extensive retouch and comparatively thick scraping edges. Woodman et al propose a very simple definition of scraper types, arguing that more detailed classifications are not valid. According to their model the examples from Casteltown are ‘flake scrapers’. As discussed below, the scrapers vary in condition, some being burnt, some heavily worn, and

7 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme some extensively rejuvenated, apparently shortly before deposition. Typological assignments of date to scrapers are very difficult. The Castletown Tara examples are associated with a C14 date of 2900 – 2675 cal BC (Beta-247051), with A008/025:933:02 from the same context as this date.

Half of the scrapers are made on ‘fresh’ flint, a significantly higher proportion of this material than is found elsewhere in the assemblage.

Other retouched artefacts Other retouched artefacts are not very chronologically distinctive. These include four indeterminate fragments, three edge retouched blades as well as an informal awl and invasively retouched pieces. On a priori grounds, the invasively retouched piece is typologically Neolithic in date and one of the edge retouched blades (A008/025:939:1) approaches a serrated blade in form and is also typologically likely to be Neolithic. Both artefacts were found within cremation pits of late Neolithic date.

Discussion Area 1a As argued above, all lithics in Area 1a have been redeposited, and this places severe constraints on any interpretation. Minimally, three archaeological phases can be identified from the chipped stone tool assemblage; the Later Mesolithic present in the form of varied retouched artefacts and arguably the assemblage structure; the early Neolithic being represented by two leaf-shaped arrowheads; and the late Neolithic/early Bronze Age by the hollow-based arrowhead. Many artefacts are not chronologically distinctive, and might fit into these periods, or represent other phases of activity.

The Later Mesolithic: eight artefacts are typologically coherent with a Later Mesolithic date, and many other pieces, especially those in unusual raw materials, are technologically characteristic: with large, plain platforms with minimal preparation and apparently having been struck by a hard hammer. Given the difficulties with separating individual ‘Mesolithic’ or ‘Neolithic’ flakes (Woodman 1992) it is not possible to say precisely how many ‘Later Mesolithic’ pieces are within the assemblage but there are probably some 10 – 15 lithics present.

The diversity of raw materials, and their consistent large size, is also characteristic of the Later Mesolithic (Woodman et al 1999; Warren et al in press). The fresh character of some of the artefacts in ditch fills suggests that some, at least, of this material has not been

8 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme substantially disturbed, but other pieces, especially those in hill wash, are clearly much more removed from their initial context. The Castletown assemblage is dominated by the products of stone working rather than cores. This is in keeping with many Later Mesolithic assemblages away from sources of raw material, stone tools appear to have circulated widely from their places of manufacture as part of curated technology with a high degree of structuring across the landscape (Woodman and Anderson 1990; Finlay 2003). As such, it is difficult to assess how many episodes of activity are represented by the Castletown material: one visit with lots of objects, or multiple visits with few objects?

One of the more interesting features of the Castletown Tara assemblage is the possible presence of red pigment on some of the early artefacts. This pigment requires further analysis.

The Early Neolithic: The presence of two leaf shaped arrowheads demonstrates human activity within the earlier Neolithic period. As such, evidence for ‘continuity’ between the Later Mesolithic and the early Neolithic is demonstrated on Castletown Tara1. The two arrowheads are very different in form, and may, or may not, result from individual episodes of activity. With such a small range of distinctive artefacts it is very hard to assess the characteristics of this phase in any detail.

The Later Neolithic/Early Bronze Age: the presence of a single hollow based arrowhead indicates some activity later in the Neolithic, possibly the Beaker Period. This may post-date the single C14 date available from the cremation cemetery although given differences in the patterns of activity in the cemetery it is difficult to rely on one date in comparison to a poorly dated artefact to argue strongly for a separate phase of activity.

Area 2b Artefacts from this area are uniformly associated with the 17 pit cremation cemetery found in two main clusters separated by some 10 metres. For the purpose of this discussion, the main group of 13 pits will be termed Cluster A and the smaller, western group of four pits will be Cluster B. Of the 17 pits, eight contained lithics. Of these nine were in Cluster A (69.2% of the 13 pits here) and all four in Cluster B contained lithics. The assemblages from the cremation pits are very consistent in character and are include artefacts which are demonstrably a grave good deposit.

1 Of course, such ‘continuity’ might mask 1000 – 1500 years between these episodes of activity. 9 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme C. Cluster Heavy burning burning No

929 B 1 931 B 1 932 B 3 933 B 10 935 A 1 7 937 A 4* 3 938 A 1 7 939 A 1 3 940 A 1 5 941 A 1 947 A 2 5 949 A 5 950 A 1

Figure 3: numbers of burnt flint by cremation pit, Castletown Tara 1: * includes two refitting thermal fragments

The only evidence for heavy burning on lithics from Castletown Tara comes from Area 2b, and is distributed amongst the varied cremation pits. In most instances the burnt pieces are burnt fragments of flakes or true thermal flakes. C.937 contains a fragment of a convex scraper, with the fragmentation caused by burning (A008/025:937:3). Given that all pits with burnt flint also contain fresh artefacts it is clear that these objects have different life histories before their deposition into these pits. Given the high degree of burning it is tempting to link the burnt flints with the cremation of the bodies of the dead, given the generally small size of the burnt flint it is possible that they were collected with the bones of the dead and may not be a deliberate grave good in the same way as the other objects. It may be significant that none of the pits in the smaller Cluster B contain evidence of burning, whereas two thirds of those in Cluster A do. Looking within Cluster A, the three pits without burnt flakes are all in the NW corner of the group. The differences in inclusion of burnt material between the clusters, or within Cluster A, may indicate changing rites over time, or variation at any one time: further radiocarbon dates will be required to address this question.

The overall structure of the assemblages from the cremation cemetery is strikingly consistent. As noted above, the flint assemblage from this area is heavily dominated by grey, fresh flint, possibly imported from the Northeast. Retouched objects are mainly scrapers, but include an edge retouched blade and an invasively retouched piece. The scrapers from these contexts often show considerable wear, but in almost all instances where a scraper is present, the assemblage also includes flakes with characteristic morphologies suggesting that they result

10 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme from re-sharpening a scraper: the exception C.933 includes many small chips and irregular flakes, and it is likely that these too result from rejuvenation. It would appear that systematically, scrapers are being resharpened before deposition. Other key grave goods deposits include large blades and regular flakes; in one instance formally retouched. The blades include the only two cherts from Area 2b. The blade or flakes have not been resharpened, but often show edge damage, and would also seem to have been a used part of a tool kit. The deposition of these objects is open to multiple interpretations, and further analysis is required. Parallels for the deposition of freshly worked scrapers can be found at the Knowth timber circle, where Roche and Eogan argue that they were “knapped almost directly before placement in the post-pits, probably specifically to be deposited in the post pits" (Roche & Eogan 2001, 127) similar deposits can broadly be paralleled at other timber circles and pits with Grooved Ware associations (Neil Carlin, pers. comm.).

Cluster B B B B A A A A A A A A A debitage_type 929 931 932 933 935 937 938 939 940 941 947 949 950 3 + 1 + Chip 1 2 2 1 1 Blade 1 1 1 1* 2* Flake (indeterminate) 1 1 1 Flake (irregular) 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 + 2 + Flake (regular) 1 1 2 2 2 2 1 1 2 Indeterminate debitage 2 1 + Debris 1 1 1 1 1 Scraper (Convex) 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Invasively Retouched 1 Edge Retouched blade 1 Other retouched* 1 2 2 Resharpening flakes (present/frequent) p f p f ? p p p f

Figure 4: composition of assemblage from cremation pits, bold indicates burnt artefacts, * indicates chert blade Conclusion The small assemblage from Castletown Tara 1 suggests a long history of activity on site, from the late Mesolithic through the Late Neolithic/Beaker period. A distinctive red pigment on some artefacts requires further analysis. Of especial interest are the lithics associated with the cremation pits from Area 2. Detailed analyses of these suggest variation within the foci of features present, possibly indicating variation in the cremation rite. Alongside this, common themes articulating the selection of formal objects deposited are present and appear to be

11 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme paralleled on other sites of this date. Further work on comparanda is required before final publication of this assemblage.

Acknowledgements My thanks to Maria Lear and Donald Murphy for patience. I would especially like to thank Neil Carlin, Jessica Smyth and Muiris O’Sullivan for information on parallels and Julian Menuge for geological advice.

Bibliography Dolan, B. (2005 ). An Analysis of the Surface Flint Assemblage from Lambay Island, Co. Dublin. Unpublished MA Thesis School of Archaeology, University College Dublin. Finlay, N. (2003). Cache and carry: defining moments in the Irish Later Mesolithic. In L. Bevan and J. Moore, (Eds.) Peopling the Mesolithic in a Northern Environment, 87-94. Oxford BAR International Series 1157. Green, H. S. (1980). The Flint Arrowheads of the British Isles: a detailed study of material from England and Wales with comparanda from Scotland and Ireland. Oxford, BAR British Series 75. Inizan, M.-L., M. Reduron-Ballinger, et al. (1999). Technology and Terminology of Knapped Stone. Nanterre, CREP. Roche, H. and G. Eogan (2001). Late Neolithic Activity in the Boyne Valley, Co. Meath. In C.-T. L. Roux, J. L'Helgoac'h and J. Briard, (Eds.) Du monde des chasseurs à celui des métallurgistes: hommage scientifique à la mémoire de Jean L'Helgouac'h et mélanges offerts à Jacques Briard, 125-40. Rennes, Revue archéologiques de l'Ouest, Supplement 9: Warren, G. M., A. Little, et al. (in press). A late Mesolithic lithic scatter and radiocarbon dates from Corralanna, Co. Westmeath. Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy. Wentink, K. (2006). Ceci n’est pas une hache: Neolithic Depositions in the Northern Netherlands. Leiden, Faculty of Archaeology. Woodman, P. C. (1985). Excavations at Mount Sandel 1973-77. Belfast, HMSO. Woodman, P. C. (1992). Excavations at Mad Man's Window, Glenarm, Co. Antrim: problems of flint exploitation in east Antrim. Proceedings of the Prehistoric Society 58: 77- 106. Woodman, P. C. and E. Anderson (1990). The Irish Later Mesolithic: a partial picture. In M. Vermeersch and P. Van Peer, (Eds.) Contributions to the Mesolithic in Europe, 377-87. Leuven, Leuven University Press Woodman, P. C., E. Anderson, et al. (1999). Excavations at Ferriter's Cove, 1983-95: last foragers, first farmers in the Dingle Peninsula. Bray, Wordwell.

12 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Woodman, P. C., N. Finlay, et al. (2006). The Archaeology of a Collection: the Keiller- Knowles collection of the National Museum of Ireland. Dublin, Wordwell.

13 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Edge Damaged Length Width Depth Name_1 Name_2 Find_No Raw_material Colour Abraded Rolled Patinated Burnt Red_Seq Basic_Type Dbt_form? Dbt_percussion Core_type Broken Retouched

butt trimmed 'Bann A008/025:004:03 chert grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes yes yes 99 37 9 form flake' butt trimmed A008/025:004:04 FGS grey yes no no indet. indet. Debitage Blade platform n/a yes indet yes 45 32 10 form ? A008/025:004:05 FGS pale tan yes no no indet. indet. Debitage Blade platform n/a yes no yes 42 24 7 Indet. A008/025:004:06 FGS pale tan yes no no indet. indet. Debitage frag. platform n/a yes no yes 24 24 6 Indet. A008/025:004:07 FGS pale tan yes no no indet. indet. Debitage frag. n/a yes no yes 29 24 10 Indet. A008/025:004:08 FGS pale tan yes no no indet. indet. Debitage frag. platform n/a yes no yes 14 19 4 indet Flake retouched A008/025:004:09 chert grey yes no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes indet n/a 86 57 16 fragment dark Flake A008/025:004:10 chert grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no yes 38 18 6 Flint A008/025:011:01 (indet) honey no no no no Secondary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes no yes 21 14 5 indet Flint Flake retouched A008/025:011:02 (indet) honey yes no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes yes yes 25 24 6 fragment Flint Indet. A008/025:011:03 (indet) white no no light light Tertiary Debitage frag. platform n/a yes no yes 36 27 8 Flint Flake A008/025:011:05 (indet) white no no no heavy Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no yes 32 18 15 Flint Flake leaf A008/025:012:01 (indet) honey no no light no Tertiary Debitage (indet.) n/a no yes yes 32 20 4 projectile shaped Flint A008/025:012:03 (pebble) honey no no light no Secondary Debitage Blade platform n/a no no yes 43 19 7 Flint Flake A008/025:012:04 (pebble) honey no no light no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes indet yes 41 25 14 notched form indet retouched Flint Flake piece/unclass A008/025:012:05 (indet) honey yes no no no Tertiary Debitage (irreg.) platform n/a yes yes yes 37 17 13 . Flint Flake leaf A008/025:012:06 (indet) honey no no light no Tertiary Debitage (indet.) n/a yes yes yes 24 10 4 projectile shaped A008/025:012:07 Flint honey yes no no no Primary Debitage Flake platform n/a no no yes 20 22 6

16 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme Red_Seq Basic_Type Dbt_form? Dbt_percussion Core_type Broken Retouched Edge Damaged Length Width Depth Name_1 Name_2 Find_No Raw_material Colour Abraded Rolled Patinated Burnt

(pebble) (reg.) Flint A008/025:012:10 (pebble) honey no no light no Secondary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes no yes 48 19 10 Flint Indet. A008/025:012:11 (pebble) honey no no light no Secondary Debitage frag. platform n/a yes yes yes 24 20 5 awl Flint Flake butt trimmed A008/025:012:12 (indet) honey no no light light Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes yes yes 55 26 9 form tanged Flint Flake A008/025:012:13 (indet) honey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (irreg.) platform n/a no no no 14 12 1 Flint Indet. A008/025:012:15 (indet) grey no no no light Tertiary Debitage frag. platform n/a yes no no 18 15 2 Flint Flake butt trimmed 'Bann A008/025:012:16 (pebble) honey yes no light no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes yes 50 38 6 form flake' Flake A008/025:012:17 Quartz white no no no no Tertiary Debitage (indet.) indet n/a indet no indet 18 24 10 Flint Flake hollow A008/025:012:18 (indet) honey yes no no no Tertiary Debitage (indet.) n/a yes yes yes 28 22 4 projectile based edge Flint retouch A008/025:012:19 (indet) honey yes no no no Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes yes yes 32 21 5 blade ed edge Flint retouch A008/025:012:20 (Other) honey no no light light Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes yes yes 24 16 6 blade ed Flint Flake A008/025:012:21 (indet) honey yes no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no yes 37 25 7 Coarse A008/025:059:01 shale n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Stone n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 126 48 29 whetstone Flint Flake butt trimmed A008/025:095:01 (indet) honey no no light no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes yes 59 29 6 form Flake A008/025:132:1 Quartz white no no no no Tertiary Debitage (irreg.) indet n/a no no indet 24 19 9 Other (2): Coarse A008/025:144:1 unk grey n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Stone n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 184 116 58 other Flint Flake A008/025:252:1 (indet) honey yes no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes yes 37 35 14 scraper convex distally Flint Flake trimme A008/025:345:1 (indet) honey no no light no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no indet yes 45 38 7 flake d Flint Flake butt trimmed A008/025:446:1 (indet) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes yes 42 28 7 form A008/025:652:1 Flint grey yes no no no Secondary Debitage Flake platform n/a yes no yes 30 18 7

17 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme Red_Seq Basic_Type Dbt_form? Dbt_percussion Core_type Broken Retouched Edge Damaged Length Width Depth Name_1 Name_2 Find_No Raw_material Colour Abraded Rolled Patinated Burnt

(indet) (reg.) bipo A008/025:688:1 Quartz pink no no no no Tertiary Core n/a lar indet no indet 25 15 20 Flint Flake A008/025:757:1 (Other) honey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes no yes distally Flint Flake trimme A008/025:761:1 (indet) honey no no light no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes yes 44 24 9 flake d Flint A008/025:838:1 (indet) honey yes no no no Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes no yes 27 16 4 Flint A008/025:929:1 (indet) grey yes no no no Secondary Debitage Blade platform n/a no no yes 32 11 7 Flint Flake A008/025:931:1 (indet) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no no 20 15 4 Flint A008/025:932:01 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes no no 42 11 2 Flint A008/025:932:02 (indet) grey no no light no Tertiary Chip n/a n/a yes no no Flint Flake A008/025:932:03 (indet) honey yes no light no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes no yes 26 14 4 Flint A008/025:933:01 (Other) grey yes no no no Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a no no yes 44 17 3 Flint Flake A008/025:933:02 (Other) grey yes no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes yes 31 33 14 scraper convex Flint Flake A008/025:933:03 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no yes 28 29 5 invasively Flint Indet. retouched A008/025:933:04 (Other) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage frag. platform n/a yes yes yes 29 29 12 form Flint Flake A008/025:933:05 (pebble) honey no no light no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no no 26 10 4 Flint Indet. A008/025:933:06 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage frag. indet n/a yes no no 19 4 2 Flint A008/025:933:07 (indet) grey no no light no Tertiary Debris n/a n/a indet no no 14 5 2 Flint A008/025:933:08 (indet) no no light no Tertiary Chip n/a n/a indet no no Flint Indet. A008/025:933:09 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage frag. indet n/a yes no no 11 5 1 Flint A008/025:933:10 (indet) grey no no light no Tertiary Chip n/a n/a no no no

18 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme Red_Seq Basic_Type Dbt_form? Dbt_percussion Core_type Broken Retouched Edge Damaged Length Width Depth Name_1 Name_2 Find_No Raw_material Colour Abraded Rolled Patinated Burnt

Flint Flake A008/025:935:01 (indet) grey no no indet heavy n/a Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes no yes 32 18 4 Flint Flake A008/025:935:02 (Other) grey no no light no Secondary Debitage (irreg.) platform n/a no no no 10 12 2 Flint Flake A008/025:935:03 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no no 11 6 2 Flint Flake retouching A008/025:935:04 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (irreg.) platform n/a no no no 11 11 2 flake? Flint A008/025:935:05 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Chip n/a n/a no no no Flint Flake retouching A008/025:935:06 (indet) grey no no light no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no no 18 8 2 flake? Flint A008/025:935:07 (indet) white no no heavy no Secondary Chip n/a n/a indet no no Flint Flake retouching A008/025:935:08 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (irreg.) platform n/a yes no yes 16 9 2 flake? Flint Flake A008/025:937:1 (indet) grey no no indet heavy Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes no yes 25 18 3 Flint Flake A008/025:937:2 (indet) grey no no indet heavy Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes no no 12 10 2 Flint Indet. A008/025:937:3 (indet) grey no no indet heavy Secondary Debitage frag. indet n/a yes yes yes 18 10 2 scraper convex Flint Flake A008/025:937:4 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no no 18 19 4 Flint Flake A008/025:937:5 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no yes 14 14 3 Flint Flake A008/025:937:6 (indet) grey no no indet heavy Tertiary Debitage (indet.) platform n/a yes no yes 14 8 4 Flint Flake retouching A008/025:937:7 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (irreg.) platform n/a no no no 15 8 2 flake? Flint Flake retouching A008/025:938:1 (indet) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage (irreg.) platform n/a no no no 14 9 4 flake? Flint Flake retouching A008/025:938:2 (indet) grey no no light no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no no 27 18 8 flake? Flint Flake A008/025:938:3 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) bipolar n/a no no no 28 15 6 Flint Flake A008/025:938:4 (indet) grey yes no light no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes yes 42 41 16 scraper convex Flint A008/025:938:5a (indet) white no no light no Tertiary Chip n/a n/a indet no no A008/025:938:5b Flint grey no no indet heavy n/a Chip n/a n/a no no no

19 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme Red_Seq Basic_Type Dbt_form? Dbt_percussion Core_type Broken Retouched Edge Damaged Length Width Depth Name_1 Name_2 Find_No Raw_material Colour Abraded Rolled Patinated Burnt

(indet) Flint A008/025:938:5c (indet) grey no no no no Secondary Chip n/a n/a no no no edge Flint retouch A008/025:939:1 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes yes yes 56 18 5 blade ed Flint Flake A008/025:939:2 (Other) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes yes 35 24 6 scraper convex Flint Flake rejuvenation A008/025:939:3 (Other) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) indet n/a no indet yes 32 18 7 piece? Flint A008/025:939:4 (indet) grey no no indet heavy n/a Debris n/a n/a no no no 19 12 3 indet Flint Flake retouched A008/025:940:1 (indet) grey yes no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes yes yes 40 25 5 fragment indet retouched Flint Flake piece/unclass A008/025:940:2 (indet) grey yes no light no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) n/a indet yes yes 40 28 9 . Flint Flake A008/025:940:3 (Other) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes yes yes 35 30 13 scraper convex Flint A008/025:940:4 (indet) white no no indet heavy Tertiary Debris n/a n/a indet no no 14 7 3 Flint Flake retouching A008/025:940:5 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no no 14 12 3 flake? Flint Flake A008/025:940:6 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (indet.) indet n/a indet no no 15 10 1 Flint Flake retouching A008/025:941:1 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no no 18 10 4 flake? Flint Flake A008/025:947:1 (Other) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) indet n/a yes no yes 32 19 6 Flint Flake retouching A008/025:947:2 (Other) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no no no 25 28 5 flake? Flint A008/025:947:3 (Other) white no no no no Primary Debris n/a n/a indet no no 14 11 6 Flint Flake A008/025:947:4 (indet) white yes no no heavy Secondary Debitage (indet.) indet n/a yes no no 16 14 4 dark A008/025:947:5 chert grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes no yes 35 14 4 Flint A008/025:947:6 (indet) white yes no indet heavy Tertiary Debris n/a n/a indet no no 14 4 3

20 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme Red_Seq Basic_Type Dbt_form? Dbt_percussion Core_type Broken Retouched Edge Damaged Length Width Depth Name_1 Name_2 Find_No Raw_material Colour Abraded Rolled Patinated Burnt

rejuven Flint Flake ation A008/025:947:7 (Other) grey no no no no Secondary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes yes 30 12 6 scraper flake Flint Flake A008/025:947:8 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (irreg.) platform n/a no no no 14 21 7 dark A008/025:949:1 chert grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a yes no yes 52 23 8 indet Flint Flake retouched A008/025:949:2 (indet) honey yes no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes yes yes 24 19 4 fragment Flint Flake A008/025:949:3 (indet) grey no no indet heavy Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a yes yes yes 24 10 6 scraper convex edge Flint Flake retouching retouch A008/025:949:4 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (reg.) platform n/a no yes no 15 12 4 flake? ed Flint Flake retouching A008/025:949:5 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage (irreg.) platform n/a no no no 11 8 2 flake? Flint retouching A008/025:949:6 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Debitage Blade platform n/a no no no 8 12 2 flake? Flint A008/025:949:7 (indet) white no no indet heavy Secondary Debris n/a n/a indet no no 19 15 6 Flint A008/025:949:8 (indet) grey no no no heavy Tertiary Chip n/a n/a indet no no Flint retouching A008/025:949:9 (indet) grey no no no no Tertiary Chip n/a n/a indet no no flake? Flint Flake A008/025:950:1 (Other) grey yes no no no Secondary Debitage (irreg.) indet n/a yes no yes 15 16 6

21 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

APPENDIX 14 Cereal drying and Metallurgy at Lismullin Co Meath: A preliminary analysis Jonathan Kinsella

Cereal Drying and Metallurgy at Lismullin, Co. Meath: A Preliminary Analysis

Jonathan Kinsella

21 June 2007

Report Prepared for Archaeological Consultancy Services Ltd

1 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Introduction This paper will focus on the cereal-drying kilns and possible metallurgical features at Lismullin, Co. Meath, to assess their function and likely date. This research is also relevant for an overall understanding of kilns and metallurgical features, such as furnaces and smithing hearths, in Ireland as they constitute recurring features in the archaeological record that have thus far received only minor scholarly attention. Firstly, I will examine the morphological evidence for kilns, furnaces and smithing hearths to identify specific typological characteristics. In relation to cereal-drying kilns, this evidence is used to identify a preliminary chronological development from oval and sub-oval types, dating to the Iron Age, figure-of-eight examples, which approximately date from the transitional late Iron Age/early medieval period until the seventh century, and keyhole-shaped kilns, which date mainly from the c. 800/900s through the high middle-ages. Regarding metallurgical features, it is apparent that this technology altered little between late prehistory and the seventeenth century, until the introduction of the blast furnace and, as a result, these features remained largely constant over the centuries. Through an investigation of the typology and deposits of cereal-drying kilns and metallurgical features, this paper will demonstrate that it should be possible, in most cases, to distinguish between their functions and, in relation to cereal-drying kilns, to ascribe a relative date based on their morphology. To conclude, the available archaeological evidence for cereal-drying kilns will be used to identify the possibility for the indigenous development of arable farming practices and technology from the late Iron Age until approximately the ninth/tenth centuries and this will be supported by evidence from pollen analysis. The archaeological evidence from Lismullin must, therefore, not be considered in isolation but as part of the broader evidence nation-wide.

Cereal-drying kilns Typology • Oval and sub-oval kilns – Theses kilns appear oval and sub-oval in plan. • Figure-of-eight kilns – These kilns appear as a figure-of-eight in plan. • Dumbbell kilns – These are similar to figure-of-eight kilns but have a wider waist. It is probable that figure-of-eight and dumbbell kilns are related (Monk and Kelleher 2005).

2 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

• Keyhole-shaped or tobacco-pipe kilns – In plan the kilns appears keyhole-shaped while in cross-section they resembles a pipe. • L-shaped or comma-shaped kilns – Part of the kiln is set at an angle to the other forming an L- or comma- shaped kiln when the flue is curving.

Approximate dimensions of cereal-drying kilns can be derived from the research of Monk and Kelleher (2005, 81-2) and through a glance at the appendices at the back of this paper. Oval and figure-of-eight-shaped kilns have approximate lengths of between 2m and 3m. The keyhole kilns cited in Monk and Kelleher’s work range in length between 1.2m and 8.5m with the majority falling between 1.2m and 4m. The keyhole kilns at Leggetsrath West, Co. Kilkenny (Lennon 2006) and Derrinsallagh 3, Co. Laois (Kenny 2007a) are 4.6m and 7m long respectively (see Appendix I) indicating that the latter kilns are generally longer than oval and figure-of-eight examples.

Oval and figure-of-eight kilns at Colp West, Co. Meath (Murphy and Clarke 2001a; Appendix II), and Solsborough, Co. Tipperary (Murphy and Clarke 2001b), were described as being wider and deeper at the firing end and not so wide and shallower at the drying chamber end. The base of the flue typically rose in height from the fire spot to the drying chamber. The firing bowls of figure-of-eight kilns had approximate diameters of c. 1m while the drying chamber were slightly smaller with average diameters of c. 0.80m. An examination of the Colp West kilns shows that the largest firing bowl diameter was 1.36m while the smallest was 0.60m. At the drying chamber end, the largest bowl diameter was 1.30m and the smallest was 0.60m (see Appendix II). The firing area of keyhole kilns had an average diameter of between 0.80m and 1.50m while the diameter of the drying chambers ranged from 0.32m to 1.60m (Monk and Kelleher 2005, 81). Generally, therefore, the firing area for oval, figure-of-eight and keyhole kilns is wider and deeper than the drying chamber.

Depths of the features depended on the level of truncation at each site but the oval and figure- of-eight kilns at Colp West had an average depth of c. 0.50m (see Appendix II) while the depths of the drying chambers for keyhole-shaped kilns ranged on average between 0.65m and 1m (Monk and Kelleher 2005, 82).

3 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Function A kiln is a structure designed specifically for the drying of a commodity. Hot air, from an open fire, reaches the cereals within the drying chamber via the flue. Experiments by Monk and Kelleher (2005, 101-4), on keyhole-shaped kilns, have shown that a number of factors were essential in determining their success when drying cereals. An important aspect was the temperature of the air, when entering the kiln, and this was influenced by such things as the weather, the direction of the wind and the proximity of the fire. It was demonstrated that the temperature could be controlled by placing the fire within a depression, just before the mouth of the flue, and through the regular opening of the roof on the kiln superstructure. The wind could be controlled through the correct alignment of the kiln and by the use of windbreaks. The flue length was a key factor because longer flues were less likely to result in the accidental burning of the cereals. For shorter flues, baffle stones were sometimes used as they prevented sparks from the fire reaching the drying chamber. The more successful experiments were also carried out in kilns where the drying chamber was set at a higher level than the flue mouth.

The orientation of the kiln and the location of the drying chamber, in relation to the flue, were essential in maximising efficiency. Orientation was influenced by local factors such as topography, wind direction and the proximity of settlement. In their study of kiln orientation, Monk and Kelleher (2005, 83) have demonstrated that the majority were aligned either north/south or east/west. It was also noted that many were set into slopes, with the chambers upslope, or boundaries such as ditches or field fences (ibid., 84).

Kilns are essential for cereal crop processing and especially to ripen the crop after damp harvests and/or in short growing seasons. However, the drying of cereals prior to threshing, following a damp harvest or a short growing season, is only one aspect of a kiln’s function. An equally important function of the cereal-drying kiln is to harden the grain to allow for effective milling (Monk 1994, 217). This was relevant both for small-scale and larger-scale production as grinding the grain, without prior drying, was more difficult and resulted in the clogging of the quern surface. Cereal-drying kilns were used for the production of malt and evidence for this has been detected at Corbally, Co. Kildare (Tobin 2003). They were also

4 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

utilised for the drying of grain, to reduce the moisture content prior to storage, and to fumigate for insect pests (Monk 1994, 218).

Preliminary kiln chronology based on morphology and available radiocarbon results Introduction Monk and Kelleher (2005, 105-6) have devised a preliminary chronological framework for the development of cereal-drying kilns in Ireland. They suggest that figure-of-eight kilns, and related dumbbell kilns, date to the early medieval period followed by keyhole-shaped kilns which are predominantly associated with the high middle-ages. The problems pertaining to devising such a chronological framework are related to the lack of fully published excavation reports. This problem is furthered because drying kilns rarely produce evidence for their close dating as samples taken are usually derived from later deposits. When radiocarbon dates are forthcoming, it is not clear what material was used and from what layer the sample was taken (Monk and Kelleher 2005, 105). Baring these factors in mind, the following chronological sequence for the development of cereal-drying kilns in Ireland is a preliminary one and may be subject to change with increased publication and more precise sampling strategies. Monk and Kelleher’s (2005) dating of figure-of-eight and keyhole kilns, to the early and later middle ages respectively, is followed although I believe there is preliminary evidence now to date figure-of-eight kilns to an approximate period between the fourth and seventh centuries. Also, I argue that there is evidence for oval and sub-oval kilns dating to the Iron Age and that these were precursors for the slightly later figure-of-eight and dumbbell types. Indeed, both types of kiln may have functioned contemporaneously for a short period until it was realised perhaps that the figure-of-eight kiln functioned more efficiently.

Oval and sub-oval kilns (Middle-late Iron Age - c. seventh century) The excavations at Colp West produced at least seventeen kilns with two possible further examples. What was most striking about the results was the number which returned radiocarbon dates from the Iron Age (see Appendix II). It became clear that the kilns, which returned exclusively Iron Age radiocarbon dates, were either oval or sub-oval in plan except for one example which was a figure-of-eight type. The remaining figure-of-eight kilns spanned dates between the late Iron Age/early medieval transitional period and the early middle ages up to approximately the seventh century.

5 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

In all cases, charcoal was sampled and many of the samples came from primary contexts (see Appendix II). The kilns at Colp West were associated with archaeological features of both Iron Age and early medieval date and in many cases they predated the construction of the ringfort in proximity. It is evident, therefore, through a combination of radiocarbon dates from primary contexts, the stratigraphy of the archaeological complex and the association of the kilns with Iron Age features, such as a hut site, that some of the kilns were utilised in the Iron Age. Three of these kilns were oval-shaped while one was a figure-of-eight type.

A number of oval and sub-oval kilns were excavated at Solsborough. Three oval and sub-oval types produced radiocarbon dates between the fifth and seventh centuries from primary contexts (see Appendix I). An oval kiln was also dated between AD 2-79 although it contained only one deposit consisting of a brown clay that was flecked with charcoal. The charcoal increased in density towards the base in the wider deeper end of the kiln which was the firing end. However, this fill may have consisted of dump material from the site so we can not be overly confident of its date especially as only one sample was taken. However, like Colp West, the kilns were associated with features which returned both Iron Age and early medieval dates and it may be suggested that they were part of a multi-period archaeological complex in which the settlement evidence lay beyond the roadtake.

Both Colp West and Solsborough, therefore, have produced oval, sub-oval and figure-of- eight cereal-drying kilns. Although the sample of kilns is small, it is argued that there is sufficient evidence to devise a preliminary chronological and typological framework for the use of oval and sub-oval kilns dating to the Iron Age. There is also evidence for figure-of- eight kilns dating to the Iron Age at Colp West and oval examples dating between the fifth and seventh centuries from Solsborough while similar kilns are slightly later in date at Johnstown, Co. Meath (Clarke 2004; Clarke and Carlin forthcoming; see Appendix I). In the Iron Age, probably during the last centuries BC and the beginning of the first millennium, oval cereal-drying kilns began to be used in Ireland. This technology was adapted, possibly to enhance its functionality, and was gradually succeeded by figure-of-eight type-kilns from approximately the third century AD. This change in kiln type possibly occurred at different speeds throughout the country and there is some evidence that they functioned

6 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

contemporaneously during the transitional period, between the late Iron Age and early medieval period, until oval kilns were finally replaced by figure-of-eight and dumbbell types.

Figure-of-eight & dumbbell kilns (c. AD 400-700) Monk and Kelleher (2005) site figure-of-eight kilns from Corbally, Co. Kildare (Tobin 2003), Jordanstown, Co. Dublin (Tobin 2002), and Raystown, Co. Meath (Seaver 2006), as possible early medieval kilns but also stress that it may be too soon to devise such a chronological framework. Corbally has produced at least 26 kilns, the majority figure-of-eight types, yet radiocarbon dates are awaited. A geophysical examination of the site, however, revealed a large sub-rectangular enclosure which may date to the early medieval period. The kilns at Jordanstown also await radiocarbon dates but are not associated with any obvious early medieval features.

Two published archaeological sites which have produced datable evidence from figure-of- eight cereal-drying kilns are Glebe/Laughanstown, Co. Dublin (Seaver 2005) and Raystown. At both sites, the radiocarbon dates suggest use between the fourth and seventh centuries (see Appendix I). Cereal grains were sampled and dated at Raystown while the datable samples from Glebe/Laughanstown varied between charcoal and cereal grains (Seaver 2005, 150; 2006, 134). Unfortunately, it is not stated which context the samples came from but cereals are short-lived species so we can be relatively confident about their date. As noted earlier, a number of kilns have also been radiocarbon dated from Colp West. In all cases, charcoal was sampled and in many cases the dates were retrieved from primary fills. The excavators have described the kilns as oval and keyhole in plan yet the keyhole-shaped kilns clearly resemble figure-of-eight and dumbbell types which date mostly between the fourth and seventh centuries (see Appendix II). Currently, there is a general lack of dating evidence relating to figure-of-eight kilns. However, based on the initial evidence, dated examples from Laughanstown/Glebe, Raystown and Colp West suggest that they were utilised most commonly between the fourth and seventh centuries. It is worth noting that both Seaver (2005) and Murphy and Clarke (2001a) have suggested that many of the figure-of-eight kilns predated the respective ringforts at Laughanstown/Glebe and Colp West and, interestingly, the radiocarbon results can be interpreted as assigning the kilns within the late Iron Age/early medieval transitional period prior to the construction of ringforts in Ireland c. AD 600 (see

7 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

Stout 1997 for ringfort chronology, 24-8). I believe that this type of cereal-drying technology marks the approximate middle point between oval and sub-oval kilns, which originated in the late Iron Age, and the keyhole-shaped kilns which become common towards the end of the first millennium.

Keyhole-shaped kilns (c. AD 800/900s – late medieval period) Monk and Kelleher (2005, 105) have argued convincingly that keyhole-shaped kilns tend to date to the later middle ages citing Kilferagh, Co. Kilkenny (Hurley 1987) and Ballysimon, Co. Limerick (Collins and Cummins 2001, cited in Monk and Kelleher 2005) as examples which date between the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. Furthering their argument, they demonstrate the higher proportion of wheat and the presence of pulses, peas and beans in many keyhole-shaped kilns which are not traditionally found in early medieval contexts. More recent excavations, from both published and grey literature, at Legetsrath West, Derrinsallagh and Kileany, Co. Laois (Kenny 2007b; also see Appendix I), identify that keyhole-shaped kilns also functioned in the latter part of the early middle-ages from approximately the ninth or tenth century onwards.

Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metallurgical Features Introduction It has been preliminary suggested that some of the archaeological features at Lismullin represent smithing hearths or metallurgical features relating to non-ferrous or glass working (Grogan & O’Connell et al 2007). This section will briefly outline the recent archaeological evidence for ironworking, non-ferrous metalworking and glass working from excavations in advance of the M4 and M7/8 road schemes to determine the possible function of the Lismullin kiln/furnaces. The two features in question can be described as follows. Firstly, on the north side of the site at Lismullin is a kiln or furnace set into the north-facing slope overlooking the wetland area. This consists of two bowl-shaped depressions with the larger deep funnel-shaped fire pit on the northern side. The bowls were joined by a shallow flue. Fired material extracted from all three elements of this feature was from the clay lining which was produced at high temperatures over more than one firing. Immediately to the north of the post enclosure is another, slightly unusual, furnace. Although figure-of-eight-shaped the clay lined eastern bowl is elongated and separated from the other side by a vertical stone slab. A

8 Castletown Tara 1, A008/025 M3 Clonee–North of Kells Motorway Scheme

decorated projecting ring headed pin, dating to the late Iron Age (O’Connor 2007), was recovered from the upper fill of this feature.

Typology (Ferrous working) • Smelting furnaces: Smelting furnaces are archaeologically identifiable as bowl-shaped pits which typically contain slag. The majority of furnaces from the M4 excavations had diameters of between 0.40m and 0.70m and depths of between 0.10m and 0.20m (Carlin, Ginn and Kinsella forthcoming). At Derrinsallagh 4, Co. Laois, 46 archaeological features have been initially identified as bowl furnaces with the smaller furnaces measuring between 0.20m and 0.30m in diameter and the larger examples between 0.40m and 0.80m. The depths ranged between 0.10m and 0.20m for the smaller furnaces and between 0.15m and 0.35m for the larger types (Lennon 2007).

• Smithing hearths: Rectangular smithing hearths - The majority of the smithing hearths from the M4 had a distinctive rectangular plan with steep sides and a flat base. Most were 1.0m to 1.60m in length and between 0.10m and 0.40m deep (Carlin, Ginn and Kinsella forthcoming). It has been suggested that these were utilised for bloomsmithing (ibid.).

Bowl-shaped smithing hearths - Smithing occurred in bowl-shaped hearths and was also conducted in previous smelting furnaces (Scott 1990). It is very difficult, therefore, to archaeologically distinguish the difference between smelting furnaces and smithing hearths unless specialist analysis of the slag has been undertaken.

• Figure-of-eight smithing hearths/furnaces: Although less well represented in the archaeological record, figure-of-eight-shaped metallurgical features have recently been discovered in advance of the M4 and M7/8 road schemes. At Killickaweeny, tests for magnetic susceptibility revealed that some of the fills contained high levels of iron which was suggestive that the figure-of-eight metallurgical feature functioned as a smithing hearth (Walsh and Carlin forthcoming). Three figure-of-eight metallurgical features excavated at Derrinsallagh 4 have been

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described as furnaces (Kenny 2007c; Lennon 2007) although they may have functioned as smithing hearths; their exact function will not be known until specialist analysis has occurred on the residues. One example measured 1.21m in length, was 0.64m wide and had a depth of 0.43m. The primary fills consisted of vitrified clay while the upper deposits contained frequent slag inclusions. The vitrified clay is suggestive that the bowls were clay-lined or indicates the presence of a superstructure. However, both furnaces and smithing hearths could have contained covering structures so only specialist analysis can determine the feature’s function.

Typology (Non-ferrous metalworking) Bronze working furnaces were generally similar in morphology to ferrous working furnaces (Laing 2006). They are, however, less frequent in the archaeological record and produce much lower volumes of residue. Also, bronze was more highly valued than iron during the Iron Age and early medieval periods and both furnaces and hearths were thoroughly cleaned and any residues kept as a result. Moynagh Lough crannog, Co. Meath, produced abundance evidence for non-ferrous metalworking in the form of furnaces, crucibles, mould fragments, motif pieces, heating trays, ingots and metalworking tools (Bradley 1993). A furnace from Phase Y consisted of a bowl-shaped depression, with an average diameter of 0.45m, which was lined with calcareous mud. Another furnace, from Phase X, was bowl-shaped and the base was deliberately stepped so that one part was higher than the other. It had a diameter of 0.35m and a depth of 0.14m. The fill was sterile but it is likely the furnace was deliberately and thoroughly cleaned so as not to waste any of the valuable residues.

After copper and tin was smelted, the raw material was generally cast into small ingots in stone moulds and was then melted down in crucibles for pouring into clay moulds. The archaeological evidence for copper and copper-alloy working, therefore, produces a range of artefacts in the form of crucibles, moulds, ingots and motif pieces. These appear most commonly on high status secular and ecclesiastical early medieval settlements such as Lagore crannog, Co. Meath (Hencken 1950), Moynagh Lough crannog (see above), Garranes ringfort, Co. Cork (Ó Ríordáin 1942) and (Gaskell Brown and Harper 1984) for example. Evidence for glass-working has also been demonstrated at Lagore, Garranes and

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Armagh and it appears that specialist smiths were commissioned by the lordly and ecclesiastical classes for the production of decorative iron, bronze and glass artefacts.

In conclusion, the presence for ironworking in the archaeological record is abundant in the form of furnaces, smithing hearths, charcoal producing kilns and residues most commonly of slag. Excavations along the M4 have produced distinctive rectangular smithing hearths which are differentiated in form from oval furnaces. Smithing hearths may also be bowl-shaped and there is evidence that smelting furnaces were reused as hearths. Therefore, it is extremely difficult to identify one from the other without specialist analysis of the residues. Iron slag is a common find on early medieval sites within furnaces, hearths and enclosing ditches and is a sure indicator of ferrous working. The residues of non-ferrous and glass working are less readily identifiable because the furnaces and hearths were intensively cleaned due to the increased value and rarity of these resources. Until the seventeenth century, for example, glass was imported into Ireland (Bourke 1997) and was undoubtedly considered a luxury item prior to that. There is evidence, most commonly from high status secular and ecclesiastical settlements, of copper and copper-alloy working in the form of crucibles, moulds, ingots and motif pieces that can be readily associated with non ferrous metalworking. Much of the equipment used for glass and enamel working was the same as that of copper and copper- alloy working so the two were commonly carried out in the same area by specialist smiths. Non ferrous and glass working is therefore identifiable in the archaeological record by the presence of the equipment used by the smiths as we are much less likely to discover residues within furnaces or hearths.

Chronology Excavations in advance of the M4 have added immensely to our knowledge of metallurgy in Ireland from late prehistory until the medieval period. There seems little doubt to refute the date of 810-420 BC which was obtained from a sub-rectangular pit at Kinnegad 2 which contained 100 sherds of late Bronze Age pottery and some iron slag (see Carlin, Ginn and Kinsella forthcoming). A bloom smithing hearth at Rossan 6, which contained much slag from its primary fill, was also radiocarbon dated to 820-780 BC (ibid.). The late Bronze Age dates from the metallurgical features on the M4 confirm the views of Raftery (1976; 1994)

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and Cooney and Grogan (1991) for early iron production in Ireland within a late Bronze Age context.

The M4 excavations uncovered multiple metallurgical sites dating between 400 BC and AD 600 where previously ironworking sites from this period had been lacking in the archaeological record (Carlin, Ginn and Kinsella forthcoming). More recent excavations on the M7/8, at Derrinsallgh 4, have produced radiocarbon dates of 240 BC – AD 50 and 10 BC – AD 240 from two bowl furnaces (Lennon 2007). It is becoming clear, therefore that there is growing evidence for ironworking production sites from the middle and late Iron Age and that this evidence will expand with increased publication. The majority of the metallurgical features from the M4 excavations were dated to the early medieval period while evidence for late medieval metallurgy was minimal. What became apparent, however, was that the methods of production and morphology of the metallurgical features remained constant from the late Bronze Age until the seventeenth century. Therefore, it is only by radiocarbon dating and associated artefacts that metallurgical features can be ascribed to a certain period.

General Discussion A total of eleven kilns and two possible metalworking features have been uncovered at Lismullin in proximity to a large late Iron Age ceremonial enclosure, a ring-ditch of probable Bronze Age/Iron Age date and an early medieval unenclosed souterrain (see Grogan & O’Connell et al 2007). Lismullin, therefore, represents a multi-period archaeological complex dating from prehistory until the early-middle ages. This brief discussion will focus on the cereal-drying kilns and the metallurgical features as excavations are ongoing and a final report will be produced thereafter by the site director Aidan O’Connell.

Before discussing the cereal-drying kilns, I will begin with an investigation into the function of the two possible metallurgical features at Lismullin. Both are figure-of-eight-shaped and are not dissimilar to the surrounding cereal-drying kilns. Indeed it can be argued that one of these features functioned as a kiln rather than a furnace or smithing-hearth. This was figure- of-eight-shaped and measured 2.69m in length, was 1.40m wide and had a depth 0.64m (Aidan O’Connell pers comm.). A late Iron Age projecting ring-headed pin was uncovered

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from its upper fill. Of particular interest, regarding its function, was the presence of a vertical stone placed deliberately within the flue that displayed evidence of burning. This was most probably a baffle stone that was used to protect the cereal grains, in the drying chamber, from the sparks which entered the flue via the fire. The dimensions of this feature are consistent with the general sizes of figure-of-eight kilns and no iron slag, or metallurgical residues, was recovered from its fill.

More enigmatic, however, was the figure-of-eight-shaped feature which displayed evidence for intensive burning and fire reddening. Fired material extracted from all three elements of this feature was from the clay lining and this was produced at high temperatures over more than one firing. This was not a pottery kiln as the bowl-shaped components are an unsuitable shape to stack pots and the temperature generated appears to have been far too high for ceramic production (Grogan and O’Connell et al 2007). Neither was this likely to have been a cereal-drying kiln because the evidence for intensive burning is more in line with the temperatures required for metallurgical activities. For parallels, we must, therefore, turn to the evidence for further figure-of-eight-shaped metallurgical features. The Killickaweeny feature was identified as a smithing hearth due to the high levels of iron located within its fill. At Derrinsallagh 4, three figure-of-eight metallurgical features were identified. Iron slag was located from the upper fills of one example and importantly the primary and secondary deposits included vitrified clay suggestive of a clay superstructure. This figure-of-eight feature was either a furnace or smithing hearth but its definitive function will not be known until specialist analysis of its residues has been undertaken. Both the Killickaweeny and Derrinsallgh smithing hearths/furnaces differ to the Lismullin type in that they produced direct evidence of ironworking, in the form of slag, from their fills. It is likely, therefore, that the Lismullin feature functioned as a non-ferrous metalworking or glass working furnace or hearth. It is not surprising that there is no evidence for copper, copper-alloy or glass residues due to its rarity and value (the furnace/hearth would have been well cleaned after use), when compared to iron, but it is unusual that the equipment associated with non-ferrous metalworking and glass working was not found in association with the furnace/hearth such as crucibles, moulds or specialist tools for example. The figure-of-eight metallurgical feature at Lismullin therefore remains something of an enigma and all can that be said at this stage is it

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did not function as a cereal-drying kiln and was probably utilised for non-ferrous metallurgical and/or glass working activities.

The remaining eleven features under discussion comprise of cereal-drying kilns. The majority were figure-of-eight-shaped although two were oval kilns. The shortest example was 2.15m in length and the longest was 3.40m. The widest kiln measured 1.60m while the least wide was recorded at 0.68m (Aidan O’Connell pers comm.). The primary fills of the kilns consisted generally of carbonised and charcoal-rich layers and some lenses of ash were present. They were eventually covered with backfill. Cereal grains have been initially identified from one of the kilns, measuring 5.60m in length, 1.20m wide and 0.30m deep, which has been described as dumbbell-shaped (Aidan O’Connell pers comm.) and more are likely to be revealed once the soil samples have been sieved. The dimensions and morphology of the Lismullin kilns can be paralleled with the oval and figure-of-eight-shaped kilns described (see Appendices’ I & II) and it is suggested therefore that they date between the middle Iron Age and the early medieval period (c. 100 BC – AD 700). The suggested date-range is based on evidence from previously excavated kilns which have produced radiocarbon dates from mostly primary contexts. Like Lismullin, the presence of oval and figure-of-eight-shaped kilns, in proximity to each other, was recorded at Colp West, Solsborough and Johnstown. All three sites produced archaeological features which spanned the Iron Age and early medieval periods. The ritual enclosure at Lismullin dates to the late Iron Age and the ringditch may be contemporary or slightly earlier. The souterrain probably represents a later feature, most likely dating to the second half of the first millennium. The oval kilns at Lismullin, it is suggested, will date to the Iron Age, or the transitional period encompassing the beginnings of the early middle-ages, and the figure-of-eight cereal-drying kilns may be contemporary or slightly later, spanning the centuries up to c. AD 700. The radiocarbon dates for the kilns at Lismullin are keenly awaited to determine if they are representative of the initial dating-sequence proposed by the author based on the, thus far, small sample of excavated kilns.

The discovery of cereal-drying kilns dating to the Iron Age in Ireland is an exciting one because previously they have been seen as an early medieval and later technological innovation (Monk and Kelleher 2005). The same authors (ibid., 106) have proposed a

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possible indigenous development for figure-of-eight kilns, dating to the early medieval period, but now it seems probable, and the archaeological evidence and radiocarbon dating is suggestive, that oval Iron Age kilns (Appendices’ I & II) developed in Ireland without influence from Roman Britain. The majority of drying kilns that have been archaeologically investigated in Britain are of Roman date and many are T-shaped where the stem of the T forms the flue and the cross forms the duct of the drying chamber (Monk 1994, 217). Many of the T-shaped kilns date to the late Roman period, c. AD 400 and later (ibid.), which chronologically places them three or four centuries later than some oval kilns from Ireland (see Appendix II). The awaited radiocarbon dates from Lismullin are essential because if the oval kilns produce middle to late Iron Age dates, it strengthen the claim for the indigenous development of cereal-drying kilns in Ireland. It is crucial, therefore, that cereals, from primary contexts in situ, if available, are dated and more than one sample is submitted for dating (Mick Monk pers comm.). Species identification is also crucial, if charcoal is sampled from primary fills, because it is then possible to factor-in the ‘old wood effect’ if long-lived tress such as oak or elm were burnt.

The recent discoveries of middle-to-late Iron Age cereal-drying kilns should not come as a surprise and more are sure to be identified through development-led archaeology and in succeeding publications. It has long been recognised that there was an increase in arable farming in the first centuries AD, most notably from the third century onwards, and that this led to large-scale deforestation (Edwards 1990, 52; Laing 2006, 65; Mitchell & Ryan 1998, 246; Raftery 1994, 122; Waddell 1998, 377). Pollen analysis has been crucial to this understanding (for example see Hall 2000; for a summary of pollen diagrams see Stout 1997, 39-47) and it has allowed for the reconstruction of cultural landscapes during the prehistoric and historic periods. Pollen records have been established in counties throughout Ireland and the majority identify land clearance in the early centuries AD. At Lough Doo, Co. Mayo, woodland clearance was extensive involving the almost complete removal of elm and yew whilst cereal pollens increased emphasising the expansion of crop husbandry c. AD 400 (O’Connell et al 1987). At Lough Sheeauns, Co. , the pollen record demonstrated woodland clearance and the initiation of intensive farming prior to AD 500 (Molloy and O’Connell 1991). Other examples include the pollen record from Red Bog, Co. Louth, which shows a sharp decline in tree pollens between the first and sixth centuries and a

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corresponding increase in cereal pollens (Mitchell 1986) and from Loughnashade, Co. Antrim, and Whiterath Bog, Co. Louth, which similarly depict widespread land clearance from the second century and a dramatic increase in arable agriculture (Waddell 1998, 377).

It has previously been argued that the adoption of new ploughing technology, which resulted from contacts with Roman Britain, hastened the growth of agriculture throughout the opening centuries of the first millennium (Mitchell & Ryan 1998, 248). However, more recent research by Brady (1993) and Kelly (1997) has shown that the coulter plough was not introduced until the tenth century. Irish ploughing, therefore, remained much the same during the Roman occupation in Britain and farmers ploughed with the ard or scratch plough throughout the late Iron Age and for most of the early medieval period in Ireland. Agriculture, however, was clearly expanding so what were the indigenous factors which influenced this? Ryan (2000, 32) has outlined a number of possibilities including the development of cooperative farming, the use of plough teams of four oxen, improved varieties of crops and extensive manuring which were all a culmination of better management. Is the initial archaeological evidence for oval cereal-drying kilns, dating to the middle and late Iron Ages, and the succeeding figure-of-eight-shaped kilns, to c. AD 700, another component of this indigenous farming enterprise? It may be too early to say at this point but it an interesting proposition nonetheless. It is also very interesting to note that the adoption of the coulter plough, coltar which is most likely a borrowing from Norse, in unkown before the tenth century (Ryan 2000, 32) and this is approximately the same time when keyhole-shaped kilns appear on the Irish landscape. Therefore, did the advent of new ploughing practices coincide with improved cereal-drying technology? Perhaps, keyhole- shaped kilns were also the result of Scandinavian agricultural influences but this is beyond the scope of this paper.

Conclusion This paper has focused on the cereal-drying kilns and possible non-ferrous metalworking/glass working furnace or hearth that forms part of the archaeological complex at Lismullin. The kilns consist primarily of figure-of-eight types although two oval examples are also present. Based on the small sample of previously excavated kilns, which have produced radiocarbon dates, I have devised a preliminary chronological framework for the

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development of kilns whereby oval type predominantly date to the middle and late Iron Age, figure-of-eight kilns were commonly in use between approximately the fourth and seventh centuries and keyhole-shaped kilns first appear in the ninth/tenth centuries. This paper has drawn heavily from the work of Monk and Kelleher (2005) and has largely followed their kiln chronology. It differs in that I have ascribed and included oval and sub-oval kilns, which date to the Iron Age, and I have suggested a tighter date-range for figure-of-eight-shaped kilns. This hypothesis remains to be tested and it is only with increased publication, greater dissemination of information and considered sampling strategies that this will be possible.

The radiocarbon results from the Lismullin cereal-drying kilns and other recently excavated kilns along the M3 and across the country are of significant importance. I have suggested that the Lismullin oval kilns will produce middle-to-late Iron Age dates while the figure-of-eight- shaped kilns will probably return dates between c. AD 300-700. There is also the possibility that some of the oval and figure-of-eight kilns will date to the late Iron Age/early medieval transitional period. If this turns out to be case, it raises important questions about the indigenous development of farming practices and technology in Ireland. The pollen record has been a constant reminder of the landscape changes that occurred in Ireland from approximately the third century and the emergence of cereal-drying kilns dating to the same period should therefore come as no great surprise.

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