1998:623 - RIVERRUN HOUSE, Cornamult, Terryglass, Tipperary

It was proposed to develop three self-catering/ residential units, at Riverrun House, which lies inside the zone of archaeological potential for Terryglass, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. In compliance with the planning conditions soil-stripping from the site was monitored on 16 September 1998.

Monitoring revealed two substantial cut features crossing the site. One of these (Feature 1), tested in two areas, was shown to be a large, curved ditch leading from the north-eastern end of the site, curving to the west, towards the river. The lower ditch fill consisted of sterile sands and gravel. The upper fill consisted of a thin band of dark grey, sandy silt, with frequent flecks of charcoal, followed by an orange/brown clay, with frequent large stones. The general uniformity of the lower backfill (from both test areas) may suggest a natural fill process.

The test-trenches produced two fragments of animal bone but no artefacts. There was no evidence of an earthen bank on either side of the ditch. The position and shape of the ditch suggested that it would terminate at the river, to the west. To the north-east the arc of the ditch appeared to be heading towards the present road junction. It was initially thought that Feature 1 may have been a field drain; however, its shape, position and fill do not seem to support this theory. It seems to have been associated with the river, perhaps as a flood-relief mechanism or as a means of drawing water off the river, perhaps for a watermill.

A second substantial ditch feature was identified running south from the main ditch. The upper fill of the second ditch was similar to Feature 1; however, this was not tested. Some other pit and linear features were also identified but not tested.

44 Eaton Heights, Cobh, Co. Cork