1997:288 - SHERLOCKSTOWN, Kildare

Monitoring of groundworks associated with the provision of a new entrance, driveway and gatelodge to Sherlockstown House, Sallins, was undertaken in July, in compliance with a condition of planning. The development area is located in a field immediately to the west of the house and adjacent to a complex of archaeological sites. A tower-house (SMR 14:27) is incorporated into the present Sherlockstown House, a long, irregular, slightly castellated building. The site of the parochial church of Sherlockstown, and its associated graveyard (SMR 14:43), is located in a field immediately to the north of the house. Furthermore, a stone cross (SMR 14:42) exists within the precincts of the graveyard. The cross was originally situated in the nearby townland of Littlerath before being moved to the graveyard at Prospect (c. 0.5 miles north of the site), from where it was later removed to Sherlockstown.

All groundworks associated with the construction of the gatelodge and ancillary works were monitored. Furthermore, topsoil removal associated with the greater part of the driveway was also monitored. The topsoil consisted of a moderately loose mid-dark brown silty clay and was up to 200mm thick. It lay directly upon the undisturbed surface of the 'natural' subsoil. No features or finds of archaeological interest were uncovered. However, a metalled surface was uncovered along the western portion of the new driveway. Cartographic research has indicated that this surface is the remains of a former driveway, the construction of which was contemporaneous with the present house and which was abandoned in the late 19th century.

Further monitoring associated with the extension of the driveway towards and around the house will be undertaken during 1998.

39 Kerdiff Park, Monread, Naas, Co. Kildare