2002:0491 - CASTLEKNOCK: St Vincent’s College, Dublin

Seven potential archaeological features (F1, F3–5, F7–9) were exposed during monitoring of topsoil-stripping (see No. 490, Excavations 2002, 02E0478.) in a field west of the grounds of St Vincent’s College in Castleknock. They did not form a discernible pattern and were scattered over an area measuring 88m by 28m, on even ground.

F1 was a small pit with two fills; the upper fill contained a possible iron-pin fragment, which suggests a medieval date. F3 was a small and irregularly shaped cut, containing three fills and flint debitage. F4 was a small oval cut with evidence of in situ burning and iron droplets, suggesting association with metalworking. F5 was a large, shallow cut with a flat, cobbled base, possibly related to a sunken structure, although no associated features were identified. A sherd of unglazed medieval pottery and a possible knife fragment were found, suggesting a medieval date. F7 was a shallow, bowl-shaped cut with two fills and evidence of in situ burning; it had no associated finds. F8 was subrectangular, with fills containing charcoal but no evidence of in situ burning or associated finds. F9 was an irregular feature with a fill of compact clay with inclusions of charcoal flecks. A flint scraper made using pressure-flaking technique was found in association with this feature and suggests a prehistoric date.

The finds and the features indicate activity across the area from the prehistoric to the post-medieval period. Temporary occupation and ironworking are evident, supporting the picture of activity suggested by the historical sources and known monuments in the wider area.

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