- Clonfad, Co. Monaghan, Monaghan

In August 1952 human remains were discovered by ESB workers digging a trench to erect an electricity pole at Clonfad, near Clones, Co. Monaghan. The remains, of apparently extended inhumations, were found at a depth of c. 0.9m below ground level in a field known locally as ‘graveyard field’.²²⁰ This site is identified by the SMR as an ecclesiastical enclosure. Some of the remains were removed from their context by local TD Dr P.J. Maguire, but the remainder of the burials were apparently covered over and the pole erected on that spot. The NMI was made aware of the discovery through a report on national radio, by which time the remains had been covered over. A site investigation did not take place. It appears that more than one burial was found, as the report mentioned a number of skulls (1953:18). A clay pipe (1953:19) was also found in the trench, but at a depth of 0.56m. A number of early medieval cross-inscribed slabs were found in the adjoining field. The SMR also records a holy well and a bullaun in this townland. It seems likely that burials of the early medieval period were disturbed.

220. Parish of Killeevan, barony of Dartree. SMR MO021-001——. IGR 245511 318396.