2016:599 - DRUMMINDOO (5), Mayo

A number of features including a small curvilinear slot trench, a possible smithing hearth, charcoal-production pit, possible pits, post-holes, stake-holes, a linear ditch with a curving terminus and furrows were identified during testing at Drummindoo 5. Excavation suggested the features represent a small smithing site with a hearth producing a quantity of iron slag and smithing cakes.

The smithing hearth was almost keyhole-shaped in plan with a central circular area (dimensions of 0.8m by 0.76m by 0.13m in depth) adjoined by a flue-like projection measuring 0.44m by 0.3m by 0.17m in depth. A nearby pit probably acted as a charcoal-production pit with some large charcoal fragments (probably of oak) evident within.

Excavation of the possible slot trench failed to identify any cut and confirmed it was only a deposit measuring 0.2m in width and 0.02m in depth.

The linear ditch measured 0.7m in width, 0.3m in depth and may represent an old field boundary. A number of spreads of naturally derived material containing charcoal flecks were evident and pits, mainly oval in plan, and some stake-holes were excavated. A relatively modern metalled roadway visible on the first edition OS map was also exposed and recorded.

A total of 24 soil and environmental samples were taken from the site. Radiocarbon analysis of any charcoal present should provide a date range for the use of this site. All metallurgical waste will be analysed. No other finds were recovered from the archaeological features.