2005:097 - JOHNSTOWN, Carlow

This report deals with the results of testing of Area 2 of Archaeological Services Contract 3, N9/N10 Kilcullen to Waterford Scheme: Kilcullen to Powerstown. Area 2 ran from Russellstown to Moyle Big townlands. Fourteen areas of archaeological significance were identified (Sites 1–14: A021/016–29, see Nos 54 and 70–78 above and Nos 98–100 below). This site comprised two of three fulachta fiadh situated within an approximate 90m stretch of the route corridor, the other being A021/018 (see No. 98 below). Geophysical survey undertaken on the field revealed three irregularly shaped anomalies located within the road corridor. All three anomalies were confirmed to be fulachta fiadh. The smaller feature was discernible aboveground as a low mound and, following topsoil-stripping (0.2m in depth), consisted of a moderately compact sandy clay layer with frequent charcoal and burnt, heat-shattered stones. It measured 8.9m north–south by 11.1m and a box-section excavated through the mound material revealed a depth of 0.2m for the deposit. To the south was a spread of moderately compact sandy clay with frequent charcoal and burnt, heat-shattered stones measuring 21.8m north–south by 15.8m east–west. A box-section excavated through the mound revealed a depth of 0.45m for the deposit.