1997:543 - DER17, Derryfadda, Tipperary

Located approximately 270m to the north, the second stone track (DER17) was traced for 52m of its length, from its landfall in the east extending out westwards into the raised bog. The stratigraphy of this site consisted of a series of linear deposits of stone and wood, up to 1.88m apart, used to infill pools within the raised bog. Excavation was concentrated on its western side. On its landfall it was constructed of a deposit of decayed stone and mineral soil. Within the main body of the site stones occurred as a series of small deposits used where they were needed to create a walking surface. These stones were predominantly small pieces of sandstone and limestone. Pieces of wood, some of which were charred, were associated with all deposits. Only in one deposit was any variation to this general trend found. Here cobbles, boulders and flagstones were used, although the majority of stones were still predominantly small. In addition, a burnt oak plank was used to supplement the walking surface. Single squared oak stakes were associated with three of the stone deposits and were used as markers to delineate the safe line of the track. The final sighting of the track was marked by a series of four such posts.

A wooden bucket fragment, 139.6mm x 85.4mm and 8–21mm thick, was uncovered at the western limit of the site. A notch 5.6mm thick, for the insertion of a base-plate, was located 15.5mm from the base of the piece. The inner face of the body of the vessel was bevelled with narrow gouges worked along this face. There was also evidence of woodworking on the outer face, in the form of a series of small facets. This object may have formed part of a damaged bucket stave or a broken piece from a complete vessel.

Minorco Lisheen Ltd, Killoran, Moyne, Co. Tipperary