County: Meath Site name: MOSNEY, CO. MEATH
Sites and Monuments Record No.: SMR ME028-009 Licence number: E1140
Author: P.J. HARTNETT
Site type: Graves of indeterminate date
Period/Dating: —
ITM: E 716310m, N 769707m
Latitude, Longitude (decimal degrees): 53.664170, -6.240046
Introduction
In October 1951 human remains were discovered during quarrying operations at a gravel pit near Mosney, Co. Meath. The skeleton was discovered at a depth of approximately 1.4m below ground level while gravel was being removed with a pick. It was reburied in another part of the quarry. The discovery was reported on the following day to the Garda Síochána, who informed the NMI. The site was visited on 20 October by P. J. Hartnett. This report is based on Hartnett’s account of the site.
Location (Fig. 6.44)
The site was in the townland of Mosney, east Co. Meath.77 The gravel pit was in a copse to the north of Mosney House.
Description of site
As the burial was not excavated in situ it was not possible to discuss grave structure. There was no evidence of structural stones around the burial. The burial was an inhumation (P1952:18) and no accompanying artefacts were found. According to the finder, the bones were found close together in a small space, which may indicate that the body was crouched. The skull apparently lay to the south-east.
Comment
It is not possible to suggest a date for this burial owing to the lack of associated finds or other evidence.
HUMAN REMAINS
AUTHOR NOT IDENTIFIED
P1952:18—strong jaws—well-marked muscular insertions; arches regular.
Teeth present
Great attrition of all teeth, the crowns of the incisors and canines being completely worn away. There is considerable breakdown of the interdental septa and signs of periodontal abscesses around 17 . There is no sign of any caries.
77. Parish of Moorechurch, barony of Upper Duleek. SMR ME028-009——. 316385 269689.
