2017:108 - Taaffe's Shop, William Street, Galway, Galway

Monitoring was carried out during the dismantling of a two-storey return to the rear of the former Taaffe's Shop on William Street, Galway. A total of 129 stones were recovered during the dismantling works that appear to have been re-used in the construction of the return from earlier buildings (later medieval in date). The greater number of stones have one or more dressed or tooled faces that indicate that the stones were originally used at a relatively early date in a previous building. The nature of the stones varies. Included are many fragments of window frames and mullions or transoms, all with some dressed faces. There are also many squared blocks and several wedge-shaped stones. The most decorative stones are three double spandrels, of similar size and with similar carving, one of which is in extremely good condition. The others have been damaged, one being split into two. In many cases the stones appear to have been damaged deliberately, the most likely reason being to reduce their size so as to fit them into their new role as building stone. One of the double spandrels had been shortened, so that it could be used as a quoin.

Monoitoing at the site will continue and an updated bulletin will be issued on completion of works. 

IAC Ltd, Unit G1, Network Enterprise Park, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow