2011:606 - CARRICK 3, 4 AND 5, Westmeath

Carrick 3, 4 and 5 were located on the route of the proposed N52 Road Improvement Scheme, east of the existing N52. The sites were in a field under pasture which slopes gradually from the south-east to north-west. Although Carrick 3, 4 and 5 were identified as separate sites, owing to their proximity they were excavated simultaneously under a single licence.

Carrick 3
A mound of loose stones was identified, which measured approximately 8.6m by 7.3m and was topped with a large boulder. The topsoil measured 0.5m in depth. The subsoil was orange/brown stony sandy clay. A section was opened across the mound to a depth of 0.5m. Frequently occurring amounts of modern red brick, glass, pottery and metal were recovered from the surface of the mound, indicating that it represented field clearance and was of no archaeological significance.

Carrick 4
A single shallow oval pit was recorded. It had a sharp break of slope at the top, with uneven sides and a flat base. It measured 1.2m east–west by 1.05m by 0.14m deep. It contained a single fill, consisting of a compact orange-brown silty clay with frequent patches of red burnt clay and occasional angular stones.

Carrick 5
A single oval pit was recorded. It had gradual break of slope on the top and bottom, gradual sides and a flat base. It measured 0.93m east–west by 0.74m by 0.08m deep. It contained a single fill, consisting of a mid-brown/red sandy clay with frequent patches of red burnt clay.

The excavation of Carrick 3, 4 and 5 has revealed evidence of modern field clearance and two shallow pits filled with fire-reddened clay. The field clearance is of modern date, based on the brick, glass and metal retrieved from the mound, and is of no archaeological significance.

Ahish, Ballinruan, Crusheen, Co. Clare