2002:0934 - KILLICKAWEENY (Site AE25), Kildare

Geophysical testing of Site AE25 took place in February 2002, in conjunction with a programme of linear testing. Only preliminary results of the geophysical survey were available at the initial testing stage. These identified one area of potential, a subcircular feature in the north-east corner of the site. This area was assessed as part of the linear testing programme, but no subsurface archaeological remains were found.

Detailed results of the geophysical survey were made available after the test-trenching programme was completed. Magnetic disturbance revealed three areas of archaeological potential in the eastern area of Site AE25. Within these areas were several positive linear magnetic anomalies, interpreted as possible ditches, and several strong non-linear anomalies that could indicate pits or hearths. Testing of the anomalies began on 29 July and was completed on 1 August 2002. No significant archaeological remains were uncovered at two of the areas tested, but at the very eastern end of AE25 a test area measuring 10m by 10m revealed a large circular pit, 2.46m by 2.26m by 0.3m, that contained two distinct fills. The pit appeared to cut a large, irregularly shaped deposit that covered most of the western part of the test area. A box-section excavated across the north-west end of this feature showed that it was 0.14m deep. This box-section also yielded seven sherds of medieval pottery (site analysis only). The recorded dimensions of the feature were 4.6m (north–south) by 5m, but it extended to the south and west of the test area. The site was probably a medieval occupation site. It was subsequently excavated by Tim Coughlan (see No. 930, Excavations 2002, 02E1535).

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