2021:681 - Doonass Burial Ground Extension, Doonass Demesne, Clonlara, Clare

Archaeological testing of a proposed extension to Doonass Burial Ground, Clonlara, Co. Clare, revealed the remains of a probable cereal-drying kiln and a post-hole, along with modern drains.
The proposed extension site consists of a sub-square greenfield area north of the existing Doonass Burial Ground. The old church of Kiltenanlea is centrally located within the burial ground and both church and graveyard are recorded monuments (CL054-010001 & 002).
Eight test trenches were excavated, ranging in length from 17.2m to 27.2m, each 1.8m wide, with a total area of investigation representing a 6.05% sample of the site area. Just one of the eight test trenches revealed remains of potential archaeological significance.
A probable kiln was recorded towards the western end of the trench and a trench extension measuring 5.6m by 2.9m was opened to expose the full extent of the feature. The kiln is keyhole shaped in plan and is 5m long and 1.3m wide; the depth remains unknown as the feature was not excavated. The rounded ‘bowl’ section is set into the natural slope of the field at the north-eastern end, while an area of charcoal-rich soil was noted at the south-western end, defining an area of burning. A partial stone lining is present around the perimeter of the bowl and along the flue.

A possible post-hole was recorded approximately 2m to the south of the kiln. The post-hole measures 0.28m by 0.25m and is filled with a charcoal-rich grey silt.
In order to allow the archaeological features to be preserved in situ, the new burial ground design was amended to incorporate a green area in this location. The kiln and post-hole have therefore not been excavated.

TVAS (Ireland) Ltd, Ahish, Ballinruan, Crusheen, Co. Clare