2006:1698 - PUTTAGHAN/CLONCOLLIG/ MUCKLAGH/BALLYNASRAH/TINNYCROSS, Offaly

This work was carried out on behalf of Offaly County Council as part of Phase 1 archaeological investigations prior to the commencement of construction on the N52 Tullamore bypass. The project is funded by the Irish government and the European Union under the National Development Plan 2000–2006. A metal-detecting survey was carried out at a number of sites alongside river crossings and on the banks of the Grand Canal in Tullamore. Each site was highlighted in the EIS for metal detecting to investigate the potential for buried archaeological remains.

Ground conditions at each site were generally suitable for testing. The investigation area comprised mostly arable fields and the area either side of the canal. However, the towpath was excluded from testing. Areas to be investigated were set out in a grid pattern, with each grid square measuring 20m2. All findspots were investigated by hand. All grid squares were swept in a 2m arc in parallel sections using a Viking VK20 metal detector.

Puttaghan, 235454 225575
Work on this site revealed a number of finds, most of which were modern in date (including bottle tops, sardine cans and a Yale lock). Finds of interest included a brass object of unknown function from the north side of the canal. No finds of archaeological significance were recovered.

Cloncollog – River Tullamore, 235886 224445
Work on this site revealed a number of finds, including some modern metalwork. A round iron ball was recovered from this location during testing for the Tullamore bypass. Its size (26mm diameter) and weight (67.6g) suggest it may be grape shot, used by artillery principally in an anti-personnel capacity. Numerous balls were packed in a cylindrical container (usually of canvas) and fired. On exiting the gun, the bag disintegrated, spreading the balls in a similar fashion to a shotgun blast. This generally took a devastating toll on advancing infantry (or as was often the case on a deck full of seamen). Further research will be required to confirm if this artefact does indeed represent this type of shot. In addition, it remains unclear if this was a casual military loss or the result of a localised engagement. Initial cursory examination does not reveal any indications that the ball was fired. No records of any military engagements in this area were found during historical research. No other finds of archaeological significance were recovered.

Mucklagh – River Clodagh, 231046 222816
No finds or deposits of archaeological significance were identified.

Ballynasrah or Tinnycross – River Silver, 233823 228483
No finds or deposits of archaeological significance were identified.

Puttaghan – River Corndarragh, 235330 225775
Work on this site revealed some modern metalwork. Finds of greater interest included a square nail and a fragment of a possible lead or pewter spoon of unknown date. No other finds of archaeological significance were recovered.

Summary
No sites of archaeological potential were identified as a result of this survey. Post-excavation analysis of the finds recovered from the site is ongoing.

Unit 1, Wallingstown Business Park, Little Island, Cork