2016 20 Barnhall Archaeological Assessment

Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare, Archaeological Assessment

Client: Ardstone Residential Partners

48 Fitzwilliam Square

Dublin 2

Licence No: 17E0333

Archaeologist: Aidan O’ Connell

Report Date: 26th October 2017

Our Ref: 2016_20

Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Assessment

SITE NAME Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare

CLIENT Ardstone Residential Partners

INVESTIGATION TYPE Archaeological testing and geophysical survey

LICENCE NO 17E0333

PLANNING REF n/a

TOWNLAND(S) Barnhall

IRISH TRANSVERSE MERCATOR 699153,735745

RMP NO -

RPS NO B11-15

ARCHAEOLOGICAL CONSULTANT Archer Heritage Planning Ltd.

ARCHAEOLOGIST Aidan O’ Connell

DATE OF ISSUE 26th October 2017

JOB REF. 2016_20

Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

CONTENTS

CONTENTS ...... I SUMMARY ...... III 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ...... 1 2. SITE DESCRIPTION ...... 1 2.1 ARCHAEOLOGICAL REQUIREMENT ...... 1 3. METHOD STATEMENT ...... 2 4. ARCHAEOLOGICAL BACKGROUND ...... 2 4.1 GENERAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL BACKGROUND...... 2 4.2 RECORD OF MONUMENTS & PLACES ...... 3 4.3 TOPOGRAPHICAL FILES ...... 7 4.4 CARTOGRAPHIC SOURCES ...... 8 4.5 AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS ...... 8 .6 ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE ...... 9 4.7 PREVIOUS ARCHAEOLOGICAL EXCAVATIONS ...... 10 4.8 TOPONYMS ...... 10 4.9 GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY ...... 11 5. ARCHAEOLOGICAL TESTING ...... 11 5.1 METHODOLOGY ...... 11 5.2 RESULTS ...... 11 5.3 SIGNIFICANCE OF FINDINGS ...... 14 6. IMPACTS & RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 15 7. REFERENCES ...... 16 7.1 BIBLIOGRAPHY ...... 16 7.2 OTHER SOURCES ...... 16 7.3 WEB REFERENCES ...... 16

i Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

List of Tables Table 1: Archaeological sites within the wider area of the proposed development (see Figure 2) Table 2: Cartographic sources relating to the site (Figure 3) Table 3: Aerial photograph sources relating to the site (Figure 6) Table 4: Architectural Heritage records adjacent to the proposed development Table 5: Previous archaeological excavations adjacent to the subject site Table 6: Testing results Table 7: Significance Criteria

List of Figures Figure 1: Location of site and surrounding RMP’s Figure 2: Proposed Site Layout Plan Figure 3: Record of Monuments and Places Figure 4: Extracts from early historical maps (i) Figure 5: Extracts from early historical maps (ii) Figure 6: Extracts from aerial photographs Figure 7: Geophysical Survey Results Figure 8: Testing Results Figure 9: Plan and section of F1 enclosure ditch Figure 10: Detailed northeastern testing results Figure 11: Proposed Mitigation Strategies

List of Plates Plate 1: Trench 1 from south Plate 2: Trench 4 from E Plate 3: Trench 6 from east Plate 4: Trench 4 from northeast Plate 5: Trench 6 from north Plate 6: Trench 10 from east Plate 7: Trench 12; F2 North facing section Plate 8: Trench 14; F3 north facing section Plate 9: Trench 15; F4 south facing section Plate 10: Trench 16; F5 from east Plate 11: Trench 18; F6 from north Plate 12: Trench 19; F7 from north Plate 13: Trench 20; F8 from east Plate 14: Trench 13; F9 from NE Plate 15: Trench 12; F10 south facing section Plate 16: Trench 23; F11 south facing section Plate 17: Trench 21; F12 northeast facing section Plate 18: Trench 21; F13 East facing section Plate 19: Trench 21; F14 East facing section Plate 20: Trench 24 from east Plate 21: Trench 26 from north Plate 22: Trench 28 from west

ii Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

SUMMARY

An archaeological assessment was carried out at the site of a proposed development at lands in Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare. The site covers an approximate area of 19 Hectares and is surrounded by residential developments to the north, east and west. To the south the lands are bounded by the gardens surrounding The Wonderful Barn Complex and beyond by the M4 Motorway.

A geophysical survey of the site was carried out followed by targeted test trenching. Geophysical survey indicated the presence of a circular ditched enclosure, 40m in diameter and located at the north of the site. Test trench locations were agreed in advance with the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Excavation licence 17E0333) and specifically targeted geophysical anomalies. A total of 28 trenches were mechanically excavated across the site under archaeological supervision. The presence of the circular enclosure was confirmed. It is provisionally interpreted as a possible Early Medieval ringfort. Numerous additional ditches were recorded to the east of the enclosure in an adjoining field.

Assessment of the Barnhall enclosure/ringfort indicates that it is a site of moderate significance on a regional scale. The proposed development works will have a direct negative impact on this site. o It is recommended that the proposed development plan be revised in order to preserve the enclosure site in-situ. o It is recommended that should total avoidance or preservation in-situ of this site not be possible, any areas of the archaeological site which may be affected by development works at this location be subject to full archaeological excavation in advance of construction. o It is recommended that topsoil across the northern area of the subject site be removed under constant archaeological supervision under licence to the Department of Culture Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

The conclusions and recommendations expressed in this report are subject to the approval of The Department of Culture Heritage and the Gaeltacht and the relevant local authorities. As the statutory body responsible for the protection of Ireland’s archaeological and cultural heritage resource, the DCHG may issue alternative or additional recommendations.

Revision Status Date Prepared by Reviewed by Approved by O’Connell (Archer) O’Hara (Archer) 1 Final Oct 2017 C. Mc Guinness SENIOR ARCHAEOLOGIST SENIOR ARCHAEOLOGIST

iii Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

iv Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

1. INTRODUCTION

This archaeological assessment report for a proposed development has been prepared by Archer Heritage Planning Ltd for Ardstone Residential Partners. A geophysical survey was undertaken in August 2017 by J.M. Leigh Surveys (17R0132) followed by the current phase of test trenching. Test trenching was carried out under licence 17E0333 issued by the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in consultation with the National Museum of Ireland. This report has been prepared in advance of an application for the proposed development to An Bord Pleanala under provisions for Strategic Housing Development.

1.1 Proposed Development

The proposed development will comprise 394 residential dwellings, a childcare facility, provision of a roundabout on the Celbridge Road to facilitate new vehicular access to the application site and revised entrance arrangement to the Wonderful Barn Complex together with all associated and ancillary infrastructure and open space provision on a site measuring approx. 19 ha in extent at Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare (Figure 2).

2. SITE DESCRIPTION

The subject site is located to the southwest of Leixlip, Co. Kildare and covers an area of c. 19 Ha. It is bounded to the northeast and northwest by existing housing developments. To the south the lands are bounded by the gardens surrounding The Wonderful Barn Complex and beyond by the M4 Motorway.

2.1 Archaeological Requirement

This report has been prepared in advance of an application for the proposed development to An Bord Pleanála under provisions for Strategic Housing Development.

1 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

3. METHOD STATEMENT

This assessment aims to establish the archaeological potential of the proposed development area, to determine the potential impact of the proposed development and if necessary design a suitable mitigation strategy. The following sources were consulted in the preparation of this report: o Record of Monuments and Places (RMP)1 o Record of Protected Structures (Kildare Development Plan 2011 – 2017) o Aerial photography (various collections including National Museum of Ireland, Geological Survey of Ireland and/or Ordnance Survey Ireland) o Historical maps (including early edition Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and pre-Ordnance Survey held at Trinity College Map Library). o Reference material (journals, papers, books etc) held by the National Library of Ireland, local libraries and/or on-line search facilities/collections (e.g. JSTOR etc) o Relevant on-line databases (e.g. Excavation Bulletin; NRA Archaeological Database).

4. ARCHAEOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

4.1 General Archaeological Background

Leixlip is a Scandinavian derived name (Laxhlaup) meaning ‘salmon leap’ (Simms & Fagan 1992) although Viking settlement in the area has yet to be identified. The only potential evidence is a stirrup- ringed crutch-headed pin found in 1997 during monitoring, a type of pin which may have developed in Viking Dublin (Mullin 2005). Following the Anglo-Norman arrival in the area in 1169–1171, Adam de Hereford built Leixlip Castle at the confluence of the rivers Liffey and Rye. In 1207 King John of England retrospectively granted the lands of Coldreyn (Coodrinagh) and Aderdesc (Aderrig) to de Hereford (Doyle & Moraghan 2006). The placename Cooldrinagh is found in a number of later medieval ecclesiastical and legal texts between the 13th and 16th centuries AD; for instance as ‘Coldreyn’ (1207), ‘Kiladreni’ (1216), ‘Kylldreny’ (1302-7) and ‘Coldreny’ (1552). In 1317, Leixlip Castle was unsuccessfully attacked by Robert Bruce, when his army camped in the vicinity of Leixlip for four days on their journey from Castleknock to Naas. During the late 15th and early 16th centuries Leixlip Castle was in the possession of the FitzGeralds, Earls of Kildare. In the late 16th century, following the unsuccessful revolt of ‘Silken’ Thomas FitzGerald, the Manor of Leixlip was granted to Sir Nicholas Whyte. At this time it consisted of, ‘two castles, a watermill, a salmon weir, two fishing places, called the Salmon Leap on the river'.

1 Archive Unit National Monuments Service, Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and the Gaeltacht, Floor 2, Block 6, Irish Life Centre

2 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

Barnhall is marked as “New Barn” on a 1783 map of Kildare by Alex Taylor and the area was formerly called Loughanmone before the Wonderful Barn was built by Louisa Conolly in 1743 as a decorated grain store after which Barnhall took its name. The area formed part of the demesne of Castletown House built in 1722 and the Wonderful Barn was partially built as a grain store and landscape feature to the east of the house.

4.2 Record of Monuments & Places

The Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) is a statutory inventory of archaeological sites protected under the National Monuments Acts 1930-2004 (Section 12, 1994 Act). It is compiled and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of Ireland (ASI) and comprises descriptive lists and maps of all sites, monuments and zones of archaeological potential, recorded to date in the country. The inventory concentrates on pre-1700 AD sites and is based on a previous inventory known as the Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) which does not have legal protection or status. The ASI has established a publicly accessible website (www.archaeology.ie) containing details of recorded holdings and includes recently discovered sites recorded in the course of recent archaeological excavations. The closest archaeological sites are listed in Table 1 above (see Figure 3). Descriptions are derived from the published Archaeological Inventory of County Kildare’ (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.

SMR No Class Townland ITM Distance to site KD011-031 Redundant record Barnhall 698595 735642 172m to NW Visible on a GSI aerial photograph (N 467-6) as the cropmark of a small circular enclosure and included on the RMP (1995) as 'Enclosure Possible Site'. Archaeological excavation (Licence no. 97E0175) revealed the site to be a natural spring with an associated area of soil variation. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-062 Fulacht Fia Parsonstown 699226 734795 533m to S Discovered during soil stripping in advance of a large commercial development and subsequently archaeologically excavated (Gracie 1995 Excavation Licence No. 95E0264). A small rectangular spread of loose black silt and firmer black, clayey silt (3m E-W; 2.5m N-S) contained burnt stones and occasional charcoal fragments. To the S, a second larger spread of black material occurred (12m N-S; 10m E-W), and overlay a small pit at W which contained deposits of burnt stone. Three similar pits were found in the vicinity. KD011-018 Mound Leixlip Demesne 700139 734768 845 m to SE An undated (late-18th/19th C) Estate Map (Ms 21.F.37 (131-171) map 157) in the National Library of Ireland shows a mound, skirted along the N by a curving field boundary, near the W bank of the River Liffey. It is not shown on any ed. of the OS 6-inch map, but the curving boundary is recorded on both the 1st ed.(1838) and latest ed. (1939). In a narrow strip of old woodland bordering the river with level pasture to W and N. A very overgrown, low, almost circular earthen mound (basal diams. 22.9m N-S; 21.7m E-W; H 1.5m at N - 2m at S) has a level upper surface (diams. 8.9m N-S; 8.4m E-W). Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011

3 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

SMR No Class Townland ITM Distance to site Castle - Anglo-Norman KD011-004002- Leixlip 700463, 735710 965m to ENE masonry castle Just S of the confluence of the River Liffey and its tributary the Rye Water. Adam de Hereford's grants to St. Thomas' Abbey, which mention his castle of 'Hernie' or 'Ernia', can be dated to before 1212. While the original castle may have been a motte, by the time of the grants the castle had a grange and a chapel attached. Around 1252, the manor of Leixlip passed from Adam's son, Stephen, to the Pippard family. In 1302, Ralph Pippard granted all his manors in Ireland to the King, and in 1303-4, monies were spent on constructing a kitchen in the castle, building a limekiln to produce lime for works on the castle, breaking stone and cutting wood. In 1331, the King gave John de Grauntsete the custody of the manor and castle of Leixlip for ten years, but in 1336, they were given to Roger Outlaw, prior of Kilmainham, and they were probably held by the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem for more than a century, until Leixlip passed out of the Order's hands sometime between 1455 and 1479-80, when it was granted to Thomas Daniel, Lord of Rathwire. In 1496, Henry VII granted Leixlip to Gearóid Mór, 8th Earl of Kildare, but it was forfeited in 1536, after the rebellion of Silken Thomas. Subsequently it was granted to Matthew King, John Alen and William Vernon. In 1507, it was granted to Sir Nicholas White and remained in his family until the 18th c. The castle, an amalgam of several building phases is still lived in. The E-wing dates to the mid-18th century, and further additions were made on the S in more recent times. The circular tower (int. diam. 6.7m; av. Wall T 1.2m) is of three stories and stands on a battered plinth. Modern sash have been inserted on the S, W and N sides and a chimney at NW. Adam de Hereford's grant to St. Thomas' Abbey, dated before 1212, specifically excludes the Chapel of St. Patrick in his castle of 'Hernie'. A narrow room above the main hall is called the chapel. The main staircase and the bolection mouldings of the panelling in the chapel may be late-17th c. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-017---- Bridge Leixlip Demesne 700404, 735112 865m ESE According to Sherlock (1909-11, 305), 'there was a ford (KA011-036----) at Leixlip and an ancient bridge at the Salmon Leap. This, except one arch which still stands, was carried away by a great flood shortly before 1646'. Fitzgerald (1896-99, 402), shows a photograph of this arch at the Salmon Leap. There was also a weir here (KD011-017001-). Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-017001- Weir - fish Leixlip Demesne 700404, 735112 865m ESE There was formerly a fishery on the River Liffey at the Salmon Leap. This comprised an artificial obstruction across the course of the river. In 1207, King John granted Adam de Hereford 'all the salmon fishery of the salmon leap'; also, in 1562, Queen Elizabeth granted William Vernon 'two fishing places, called the Salmon Leap'. The weir is designated DU017-014---- in Backwestonpark townland on the Co. Dublin side. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-042---- Ring-ditch Castletown 697625, 735308 899m W Found during archaeological monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange in 2001. Subsequent excavation (Licence no. 01E0669) uncovered the remains of a ring-ditch 'Site 4' (KD011-042----), an associated enclosure (KD011-042002-) and a later kiln (KD011-042001-). The ring-ditch measured 9m in diameter, with a ditch 1.5m wide and 0.9m deep. Contained within the ditch were a series of individual deposits. All were contained within the one layer of fill and were spaced throughout the ditch. The deposits consisted of two separate pots, three small charcoal spreads, two cattle skulls, and part of a human cranium. The pottery appears to be Late Bronze Age in date. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-042001- Kiln - corn-drying Castletown 697625, 735311 899m W Found during archaeological monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange in 2001. Subsequent excavation (Licence no. 01E0669) uncovered a stone-built kiln feature (KD011-042001-) set into one of the ditches of an enclosure (KD011-042002-) which also contained a ringditch (KD011-042----). Soil samples from the interior yielded grain, suggesting that this was a corn-drying kiln. This is also supported by the discovery of part of a quernstone in the kiln structure. A large pit nearby containing burnt material and an iron knife blade may also be contemporary. An Early Christian date is being suggested for this phase of activity. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011

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SMR No Class Townland ITM Distance to site KD011-042002- Enclosure Castletown 697626, 735306 899m W Found during archaeological monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange in 2001. Subsequent archaeological excavation (Licence no. 01E0669) uncovered the remains of a ring-ditch (KD011-042----) within an associated enclosure (KD011-042002-), and a later kiln (KD011-042001-). Three ditches enclosed an area c. 35m east-west by c. 25m. The largest ditch ran north-south before curving and turning west. It followed and respected the curve of the ring-ditch at this point, suggesting the two were contemporary. As it turned from the ring-ditch it became more linear again. It had a total length of c. 35m, was 2m wide and 1.3m deep. Its northern terminus was not established as it went out under the road-take. It contained large amounts of animal bone with a high percentage of animal skulls. At its western end it was met by another ditch, also running east-west. This was 1-2m wide and 0.5-0.9m deep and ran west for 24m before terminating 1m short of a third ditch. Contained within the fill of this ditch was the entire skeleton of a small horse or pony. The third ditch ran north-south for 28m and was c. 1.5m wide and 0.45m deep. Also contained within this complex were a series of small pits and burnt hearth areas. Some of these contained cremated animal bone, but there was no evidence for any human bone. As with the ring- ditch and ditches, these are probably contemporary and Late Bronze Age in date. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-043---- Habitation site Kilmacredock Upper 697652, 735457 874m W In 2001, eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during archaeological monitoring (Licence no. 01E0306) of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange. The site (Site 6) measured 7m by 12m and was visible as seven possible post-holes and a linear feature at monitoring stage. These were identified by charcoal flecks and burnt stone. It was resolved under licence number 01E0596. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-044---- Habitation site Kilmacredock Upper 697656, 735474 872m W Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306). This site (Site 8) measured 9m by 5m. At the monitoring stage it was visible as three pits and one trench or oval pit. Some charcoal and burnt bone were visible on the surface of the fills. A chunk of flint and two pieces of prehistoric pottery were also found. It was resolved under licence number 01E0596 ext. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-045---- Burnt mound Kilmacredock Upper 697768, 735466 760m W Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306). This site (Site 9), visible in section as a 4m stretch of burnt stone and charcoal, was subsequently resolved under Licence no. 01E0998. The discovery of burnt mound-type material during monitoring suggested that this site was a fulacht fia. No trough or hearth was found in the excavated area but since the site continues to the north this interpretation cannot be discounted. Two large postholes in the west of the site had a structural appearance and may have been part of a larger structure incorporating an L-shaped feature in the east, or may have been a separate structure or fence line. Burnt mound material, a pit and a quernstone suggest that some kind of industrial activity took place on site. Specialist analysis of the soil samples, saddle quern and bone will give further insight into the function and date of this site. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-046---- Fulacht fia Kilmacredock Upper 697812, 735748 801m NW Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306). This site (Site 10), 13m by 20m, was identified as a possible fulacht fia. It consisted of a spread of burnt mound material, 17m by 8m, and a small pit to the southwest. It was resolved under licence number 01E0715. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-047---- Burnt mound Kilmacredock Upper 697915, 735815 750m NW Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306). The scheme was approximately 4km in length and ran from Celbridge to Leixlip through gently undulating land with a mixture of arable, pasture and woodland. The southern part of the scheme runs through an area heavily influenced by 18th-century landscape design, with avenues, woodland and tree-lined field boundaries centred on the early 18th-century house at Castletown. This site (Site 11) was 8m by 18m. It was identified as a spread of burnt sandstone, soil and charcoal. Post- medieval pottery was found in the topsoil above the feature. It was resolved under licence number 01E0855. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011

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SMR No Class Townland ITM Distance to site KD011-048---- Habitation site Kilmacredock Upper 697910, 735856 780m NW Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306). This site (Site 12) measured 15m by 8m. Four concentrations of charcoal, possibly post-holes, formed an arc in the south-east of the area. One other lay to the north-west. They varied in diameter from 0.2m to 0.5m. It was resolved under licence number 01E0856. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-049---- Burnt mound Kilmacredock Upper 698000, 735957 782m NW Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306). This site (Site 13) was 11m by 16m. Fourteen areas of burnt stone or ash with charcoal in pits were identified at the monitoring stage. No overall pattern could be discerned. It was resolved under licence number 01E0960. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-050---- Kiln - corn-drying Kilmacredock Upper 697660, 735366 875m W Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306: www.excavations.ie). Most were resolved through subsequent excavation. This site (‘Site 7’ Excavation Licence No. 01E0547 www.excavations.ie) was a corn-drying kiln built in to an earlier ditch. The stone-lined kiln was L-shaped in plan (4.5m E-W; 3.8m N-S) and had a fire-bowl on its E side (diam. 0.95m). At the base of the flue on its W side was a circular pit (diam. 0.6m; D 0.3m), the lower fills of which were rich in charred cereal grains but contained no finds. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 Collinstown (Leixlip KD011-052---- Habitation site 698105, 736142 870m NW ED) Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306). The site (Site 14), a pit, was first seen in section on the eastern side of the deeper, central area of the excavated carriageway, approximately 0.45m below present ground level. An oval, stepped cut, with slightly concave sides, 1.9m in total length and 1.25m wide, cut the natural and was truncated on its western side by the track machine. It was 0.2m deep at its eastern end and 0.33m at its western. The base was distinctly stepped. The cut was filled in the deeper, western end by a soft, mottled black and red charcoal deposit. This was sealed by a deposit with less charcoal but with fragments of animal bone. It covered the entire area of the cut but sloped downwards to the west. Over this was a friable dark brown sandy clay with frequent charcoal flecks and animal bone. It covered the entire cut and was the final fill. Post-medieval pottery sherds, a nail and a gold ring were found in the topsoil. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 KD011-058---- Habitation site Kilmacredock Upper 697707, 735431 830m W Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306). Most were resolved through subsequent excavation. This site (Site 3) was excavated under the monitoring licence. The site (dims. L 5.5m; Wth 4.5m) consisted of two pits, possibly rubbish-pits, with associated fills and a small, thin spread of material. These features were not associated with any structures or other evidence of habitation. No artefacts were found. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011

6 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

SMR No Class Townland ITM Distance to site KD011-059---- Metalworking site Kilmacredock Upper 697624, 735369 900m W Eighteen potential archaeological sites were found during monitoring of topsoil-stripping on the Celbridge Interchange, from April to December 2001 (Licence no. 01E0306: www.excavations.ie). Most were resolved through subsequent excavation. This site (Site 5) was excavated under the monitoring licence. It measured approximately 8m by 11m. Three bowl furnaces and two associated burnt deposits were found. The area was truncated by one of the boundary ditches dividing the deerpark of Castletown and separating Castletown townland from Kilmacredock Upper. Furnace 1 consisted of twelve contexts. It was 0.44m north of the townland boundary that truncated the site. The bowl of the furnace cut through the natural subsoil. It was flat-bottomed and circular with almost vertical sides, 0.47m wide on the surface and 0.39m at its base. It was 0.25m deep. The fills were rich in charcoal and slag. There was evidence that the bowl may have been recut. A 20mm-wide stream of metal was found to have flowed from the base of the furnace on the south-western side for 0.42m. Furnaces 2 and 3 were 9.5m to the south-west of Furnace 1. Furnace 2 joined Furnace 3 on its north-western side; both cut the natural subsoil. Eight contexts were associated with Furnace 2. The bowl was 0.39m in diameter with almost vertical sides and a concave base. Its fills were also rich in charcoal and slag. A possible plume was found in the third fill of the furnace. Nine contexts were associated with Furnace 3. The bowl was 0.4m in diameter on the surface and 0.32m at its base. It was 0.22-0.26m in depth. Its fills were rich in charcoal and slag. The third fill out of four was made up of packed burnt clay which might have been part of the furnace's superstructure. Three features were associated with the furnaces: a stake-hole, an area of burnt material and a shallow cut with burnt material, C37. No completed artefacts or metalworking tools were found on site. More research will have to be carried out to determine whether the furnaces were for smithing or smelting. It might be suggested that they were for smelting since there was a possible plume in Furnace 2 and no crucibles or moulds were found. The pit C37 may have been used for roasting ore prior to smelting. Since there were three furnaces, both smithing and smelting may have been carried out on site. KD011-007---- Ritual site - holy well Leixlip 699387, 736650 840m NNE At the N foot of a short, moderately steep slope on the W bank of the Royal Canal. The well is not associated with any specific saint but is believed locally to be near the site of a monastery. It is associated with a cure for sore eyes and is traditionally visited during August when rags are sometimes left on the bushes and briars beside it. A large, square, water-filled pool (L 9m; Wth 9m) is open towards the NW and NE but is enclosed by well-built, mortared stone walling on the SE and SW. No trace of an associated rag-tree/bush. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy; Date of upload: 10 June 2011 Table 1: Archaeological sites within the wider area of the proposed development (see Figure 2)

4.3 Topographical Files

The National Museum of Ireland Topographical Files is the national archive of all known antiquities recorded by the National Museum listed by county and townland/ street. These files relate primarily to artefacts but also include references to monuments and contain a unique archive of records of previous archaeological excavations. There is a recorded find for the townland of Barnhall; a Viking burial is recorded in Walkers “ An Historical Essay on the Dress of the Ancient and Modern Irish” as a small iron battle axe found with weapon fragments and some human bone at Barnhall though the exact location is not known, possibly found during the construction of the barn.

7 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

4.4 Cartographic Sources

Analysis of historic mapping can show human impact on landscape over a prolonged period. Large collections of historical maps (pre- and early Ordnance Survey maps as well as estate or private maps) are held at the Glucksman Map Library, Trinity College and other sources (UCD Library, Ordnance Survey Ireland, local libraries and published material). The historical maps consulted are listed in Table 3 and relevant extracts are depicted in Figure 4-5. No new archaeological sites or potential archaeological sites identified on these maps.

Map Date Description The subject site is shown as agricultural land with no specific detail Down Survey map 1655 depicted. Leixlip is depicted on a bend in the River Liffey A conical feature (the Wonderful Barn) depicted to the east of Noble and Keenan Map 1752 Castletown House. The area is now called “New Barn” with mature trees on the field Taylor 1873 boundary 1st edition Ordnance The Wonderful Barn and surrounding gardens are depicted, the 1838 Survey 6-inch map subject lands are shown as parts of fields surrounding the barn. 3rd edition Ordnance The current field layout is shown with the exception of a field division 1911 Survey 25-inch map running NE-SW through Field 1 (northernmost field) Table 2: Cartographic sources relating to the site (Figure 3)

4.5 Aerial Photographs

Aerial photography (or other forms of remote sensing) may reveal certain archaeological features or sites (earthworks, cropmarks, soil marks) that for many reasons may not be appreciated at ground level. There are a number of available collections including the National Monuments Section, Geological Society of Ireland (1970–73), Ordnance Survey of Ireland (1995, 2000, 2005), National Museum of Ireland (St Joseph CUCAP Collection) and Air Corps (1950’s–1970’s). No archaeological features were recorded in the aerial photographs of the site (Table 3; Figure 6); however there are a number of factors which may determine whether archaeological remains, buildings and structures are detectable using this method, including natural conditions of soils, topography, vegetation, moisture conditions and the scale and timing of the image capture.

8 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

Photo Year Height Description Fields are laid out as in their current form. The M4 is 1995 under construction. No archaeological detail visible within subject-site. OSI Houses to the NW have been constructed. No 2000 Satellite Orthophotography archaeological detail visible within subject-site. The curving boundary to the north of The Wonderful Barn 2005 is now in place. No archaeological detail visible within subject-site. The subject site can be seen in its current layout. No Google Earth 2013 archaeological detail visible within subject-site. Table 3: Aerial photograph sources relating to the site (Figure 6)

.6 Architectural Heritage

Under S.51 (1) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, a local authority must compile a Record of Protected Structures (RPS), which lists all structures which are of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest. The protection, unless otherwise stated, includes the exterior and interior of the structure, lands lying within its curtilage (boundary), other structures and their interiors within the curtilage, plus all fixtures and fittings which form part of the interior or exterior of any of these structures. Buildings can be added to, or deleted from the RPS at any time, though generally this occurs when the county development plan is being reviewed. The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) is a state initiative under the administration of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and established on a statutory basis under the provisions of the Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and Historic Monuments (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1999. The purpose of the NIAH is to identify, record, and evaluate the post-1700 architectural heritage of Ireland, uniformly and consistently as an aid in the protection and conservation of the built heritage. The Wonderful Barn is a protected structure listed on the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage with recently landscaped grounds which form a curving arc on the northern extent of the subject site. RPS No. NIAH Ref. Structure Name Townland Description 6"Map B11-15 11901102 Wonderful Barn complex Barnhall Barn 11 Description: Freestanding single-bay five-stage rubble stone conical grain store, dated 1743, on a circular plan with external stone spiral stairs and stepped parapet. Extended, c.1850, comprising series of single-bay single- storey gabled projecting bays forming quasi-cruciform plan. Roof not visible behind stepped parapet (possibly flat). Gabled to projecting bays with slate. Full description available at: http://www.buildingsofireland.ie/niah/search.jsp?type=record&county=KD®no=11901102

Table 4: Architectural Heritage records adjacent to the proposed development

9 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

4.7 Previous Archaeological Excavations

The Excavation Bulletin is a database of summary accounts of archaeological excavations in Ireland and Northern Ireland from 1970 to 2008. Summaries relating to archaeological excavations undertaken by the National Roads Authority are also available on-line and were consulted for any adjacent sites. Reports on licensed archaeological works are also held by the Archive Unit of the National Monuments Section (NMS). Excavation has taken place in 2001 of the motorway interchange area to the west of the site revealing a range of features including a ring ditch and enclosure, a fulacht fia and various pits. These areas are recorded in the RMP (see Section 4.2)

Licence SMR No OS Ref Townland/ Street Ex. Bull. Ref. Author 698810, Margaret 97E0175 KD11:31 Barnhall 1997:258 735548 Gowen Archaeological test-trenching was carried out on a site at Barnhall, in the lands of Rinwade House, which lies to the west of Leixlip, Co. Kildare. In the event, the site was shown to be that of a natural spring with an associated area of soil variation. The SMR location indicates that the feature noted on aerial photography crosses the line of the field boundary. For this reason both sides were investigated. 697710, 05E1022 n/a Barnhall 2005:784 Teresa Bolger 735315 Monitoring of topsoil-stripping was undertaken at a development site located on the south side of Easton Road. No archaeological deposits or features were noted. Table 5: Previous archaeological excavations adjacent to the subject site

4.8 Toponyms

Research into a site or areas place name (or toponym) can provide information relating to an areas heritage or previous land use. Many townland names were anglicised by the time the Ordnance Survey (OS) began in the 1830s and when townland names were standardised in the Townland Index (1851). Barnhall is marked as “New Barn” on a 1783 map of Kildare by Alex Taylor and the area was formerly called Loughanmone before the Wonderful Barn was built by Louisa Conolly in 1743 as a decorated grain store after which Barnhall took its name. The area formed part of the demesne of Castletown House built in 1722 and the Wonderful Barn was built as a grain store and landscape feature to the east of the house.

10 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

4.9 Geophysical Survey

A magnetic gradiometer scan and detailed survey was undertaken under licence by J.M. Leigh Survey (Figure 7). The data sets are largely dominated by modern ferrous responses, resulting from modern litter and ferrous objects. Two probable modern pipes were recorded in the data. In the western field (Area A), a series of parallel and perpendicular linear trends suggests a network of field divisions. It is possible that a former field system has been recorded here. Along the northern edge of survey (Area B) a curvilinear response is indicative of a ditched feature. It is speculated that the remains of an enclosure have been identified. To the east of the probable enclosure there are several responses of possible interest (Area C). The results suggest a possible former trackway and a curvilinear ditch feature. These responses appear fragmented and it is possible that the features have been severely plough damaged. Although interpretation is unclear, the responses are considered to be of archaeological potential.

5. ARCHAEOLOGICAL TESTING

5.1 Methodology

A total of 28 test trenches were excavated across the site under the constant archaeological supervision of the licensee. The trenches were targeted on geophysical anomalies (Figure 7). Testing was undertaken in mixed weather conditions. Excavation proceeded in level spits of 0.25m. Each trench was inspected for archaeological remains and all trenches were reinstated on completion.

5.2 Results

Twenty eight test trenches with a combined length of 4082 linear metres were excavated within the site (Figure 8; Plates 1-8). The results are listed in Table 6 below. Topsoil was quite uniform, 0.42-0.5m across the area. Subsoil was a compact grey/brown stony clay.

Archaeological features associated with the circular enclosure identified in geophysical survey were identified in Trenches 8-9. The complete enclosure appears to be roughly 40m wide and extends slightly beyond the northwestern limit of the subject site. Additional trenches were excavated in this area in order to better define the location of the enclosure. Additional trenching was however limited due to the location of overhead powerlines along the northern site boundary. The recorded archaeology comprised a curvilinear ditch, c. 2-3 m wide. A box section was excavated through the ditch within Trench 8a. The ditch was 2m wide by 1.38m deep within this trench. It was filled with a friable mid brown/yellow silty

11 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

clay with occasional animal bone and small-medium sized stone inclusions. The western return of the enclosure ditch was recorded in Trenches 8b and 8d (Figure 9). The northern return was recorded in Trenches 9 and 8d (Figure 9).

Additional archaeological features were recorded in the large field to the east of the enclosure. These mainly comprised ditches and may comprise a field system associated with the ditched enclosure to the west. These ditches don’t appear to wholly match the possible enclosure detected in the course of geophysical survey. o F2 was a ditch recorded in Trench 12 and situated to the east of the watermain (Figure 10). It had dimensions of 2m wide by 1.25m deep and steep rounded sides and a rounded base. It was filled with a mid brown stony clay with some shell fragments and light charcoal flecking. o F3 was a ditch recorded in Trench 14 to the east of the watermain (Figure 10). It was interpreted as a northern extension of F2. The fill of this ditch comprised a mid brown stony clay. The full depth of this feature was not established in the course of this assessment. o F4 was a ditch recorded in T15 to the east of the watermain. It was 1.7m wide x 0.57m deep and had rounded sides and a round base. It was filled with a mid-dark brown stony clay. o F5 was a ditch or pit recorded towards the middle of Trench 16 (Figure 10). It extended beyond the northern limit of the trench; however, the side of the cut was detected on the southern side of the trench. It is uncertain if this is a ditch terminal or the southern side of a pit. This feature was 1.8m wide x 0.65m deep and was filled with a grey charcoal flecked stony clay. o F6 was was a ditch or drain recorded at the north of Trench 18 (Figure 10). It was 1.1m wide and filled with a yellow clay. o F7 was a ditch/gully located at the western end of Trench 19 (Figure 10; Plate 12). It was 1m wide by 0.3m deep and had shallow rounded sides and a rounded base. The fill was a sterile yellow clay. o F8 was a ditch recorded at the south of F20 (Figure 10; Plate 13). It was 2.2m wide by 0.6m deep and had shallow rounded sides and a rounded base. The fill was a sterile friable yellow/brown silty clay. o F9 was a drain recorded towards the western end of Trench 13 and west of the watermain (Figure 10; Plate 14). It had dimensions of 0.65m wide by 0.2m deep and was filled with a yellow plastic clay. o F10 was a small isolated pit located towards the eastern end of Trench 12 (Figure 10; Plate 15). It had dimensions of 0.5m wide by 0.24m deep and was filled with a dark grey charcoal flecked silty clay. o F11 was a drain recorded in Trench 23 at the eastern site boundary (Figure 10; Plate 16). It was 1.1m wide by 0.35m deep and filled with a yellow silty clay.

12 Archer Heritage Planning Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare Archaeological Testing and Geophysical Survey

o F12 was a ditch located towards the north of Trench 21 (Figure 10; Plate 17). It was 1.35m wide by 0.65m deep and filled with a mid yellow/brown silty clay. The cut had rounded sides and a round base and was lined at the base with small-medium sized stones. The stones at the base might indicate this is a drain. o F13 was a drain located in Trench 21 (Figure 9; Plate 18). It was 1.5m wide by 0.6m deep. o F14 was a drain located in Trench 21 (Figure 9; Plate 19). It was 1.15m wide by 0.6m deep

Trench L x B x D Orientation Description 1 70 x 1.8 x 0.42m NW-SE No archaeology found 2 115 x 1.8 x 0.5m NE-SW No archaeology found 3 150 x 1.8 x 0.42-0.5m NE-SW No archaeology found 4 170 x 1.8 x 0.42m NE-SW No archaeology found 5 170 x 1.8 x 0.45m NE-SW No archaeology found 6 170 x 1.8 x 0.47m NE-SW No archaeology found 7 170 x 1.8 x 0.43m NE-SW No archaeology found 8 85 x 1.8 x 0.47m NW-SE Enclosure Ditch F1 9 250 x 1.8 x 0.52m NE-SW Enclosure Ditch F1 10 250 x 1.8 x 0.45m NE-SW No archaeology found 11 250 x 1.8 x 0.43 NE-SW No archaeology found 12 173 x 1.8 x 0.39 E-W F2, F10 13 153 x 1.8 x 0.45m E-W F9 14 155 x 1.8 x 0.43m E-W F3 15 35 x 1.8 x 0.45m E-W F4 16 91 x 1.8 x 0.43m E-W F5 17 40 x 1.8 x 0.42m NW-SE No archaeology found 18 161 x 1.8 x 0.42m N-S F6 19 137 x 1.8 x 0.49m E-W F7 20 108 x 1.8 x 0.48m N-S F8 21 346 x 1.8 x 0.47m NW-SE F12-F14 22 106 x 1.8 x 0.43m NW-SE No archaeology found 23 514 x 1.8 x 0.45m NW-SE F11 24 29 x 1.8 x 0.47m NE-SW No archaeology found 25 14 x 1.8 x 0.48m NE-SW No archaeology found 26 40 x 1.8 x 0.5m NW-SE No archaeology found 27 75 x 1.8 x 0.43m E-W No archaeology found 28 55 x 1.8 x 0.45m NE-SW No archaeology found Table 6: Testing results

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5.3 Significance of findings

The circular enclosure identified in Trenches 8-9 is interpreted in advance of full excavation/radiocarbon dating as the surviving remains of a ringfort settlement of early medieval date. This assessment of its significance (see Table 7) follows the criteria listed in ‘Advice Notes on Current Practice in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements’ (EPA 2003) and Appendix 2 of the Guidelines for the Assessment of Archaeological Heritage Impact of National Road Schemes (NRA. 2006, 51).

Status The site is not listed in the RMP and consequently has no specific statutory protection. Rarity The site is currently interpreted as a ringfort. Numerous comparable sites are listed in the Sites and Monuments Record and numerous comparable sites have been excavated in advance of development works. Visibility The site has no surface expression. Fragility The landowner has been made aware of the location, existence and significance of the site. Amenity Value n/a Local Importance The site has potential to shed light on early medieval settlement patterns in the Leixlip area Archaeological Roughly two thirds of the ringfort is located within the subject site. The potential/ predicted ditch may contain material and environmental remains. Additional remains associated features may be located within the subject site. Documentary n/a References Table 7: Significance Criteria

Following this examination of the criteria, it is suggested that the Barnhall enclosure/ringfort is of moderate significance on a regional scale.

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6. IMPACTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

The current development proposal will involve considerable ground disturbance works across the subject site including excavations and other groundworks (e.g. provision of access roads and service trenches), movement of machines and storage of material in sensitive areas. It is suggested that these development works will have a direct negative impact on the circular enclosure at the north of the site.

o It is recommended that the proposed development plan be revised in order to preserve the archaeological site in-situ. Preservation-in-situ of the archaeological monument may include revisions to the proposed site layout and/or an engineering solution. The location of the monument with a proposed 10m buffer zone is detailed in Figure 11.

o It is recommended that should total avoidance or preservation in-situ of this site not be possible, any areas of the archaeological site which may be affected by development works at this location be subject to full archaeological excavation in advance of construction.

The current development proposal may further impact on a range of ditches of uncertain origin at the northern area of the site. However, given the location of these ditches in proximity to the ditched enclosure/ringfort, these may be associated with that ringfort settlement.

o It is recommended that topsoil across the northern area of the subject site be removed under constant archaeological supervision under licence to the Department of Culture Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

The conclusions and recommendations expressed in this report are subject to the approval of The Department of Culture, Heritage, the Gaeltacht (DCHG) and the relevant local authorities. As the statutory body responsible for the protection of Ireland’s archaeological and cultural heritage resource, the DAHRRG may issue alternative or additional recommendations.

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7. REFERENCES

7.1 Bibliography

Bradley, J., Halpin, A. & King, H.A. 1986 Urban Archaeology Survey, County Kildare. Unpublished report commissioned by the OPW. Doyle, S. & Moraghan, M. 2006 Archaeological Desktop Report for the Leixlip Water Treatment Environmental Protection Agency 2003 ‘Advice Notes on Current Practice in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements’. Mullins, C. 2005. An archaeological assessment of a proposed extension to Leixlip Water Treatment Plant at Cooldrinagh, Co. Dublin. Unpublished report for Byrne Mullins & Associates. National Roads Authority 2006 Guidelines for the Assessment of Archaeological Heritage Impacts of National Road Schemes, National Roads Authority. Dublin. Nelson, G. 1990. A History of Leixlip, Co. Kildare, Kildare County Library, Kildare. Simms, A. & Fagan, P. 1992. ‘Villages in County Dublin: their origins and inheritance’, in Aalen F.H.A. & Whelan, K., Dublin city and county: from prehistory to present, Geography Publications, Dublin

7.2 Other sources

N/A

7.3 Web references

Online Excavations bulletin www.excavations.ie [accessed 23d Oct 2017] Online Archaeological Survey of Ireland www.archaeology.ie [accessed 23d Oct 2017] Kildare Development Plan 2011 – 2017

Aidan O’ Connell 26th October 2017