2008:490 - Rowlestown Foul Drainage Scheme, Saucerstown, Dublin

Human remains were unintentionally disturbed during pipe laying by private contractors on the Rathbeale Road, c. 2km outside Swords in Saucerstown townland, opposite the entrance into Rathbeale House. An archaeologist was called to the site following the discovery.
The human remains were identified at a depth of c. 0.7m within a 1m-wide service trench which was excavated on the northern side of the road, and they extended over a 7m length on both sides of the trench. The remains in section were cleaned and photographed and a full written and drawn record was produced. The section revealed at least two east–west-orientated extended articulated human burials in graves which were lined at the top and sides with slate slabs. A charnel pit lined (base, top and sides) with slate containing disarticulated human remains was also identified, as well as a separate feature, possibly a pit or small ditch, containing animal bone and shell.
The human remains appear to be part of a cemetery of possible early medieval date. It is notable that the remains were situated at the summit of a low rise with views in all directions over the surrounding landscape. It is extremely likely that further remains will be present below the existing road, and perhaps to either side of the road. As a result, it was recommended that the find location be added to the Record of Monument and Places.
Following the osteoarchaeologist’s examination of the trench sections, they were covered in sheets of plastic and geotextile material and backfilled. An additional 20m of service-trench excavation was monitored and no further human remains were identified. The spoil from the initial excavation was sifted through and disturbed human and animal bone was collected for future analysis.