Megalithic tomb - wedge tomb

The National Monuments Service's description

In a shallow hollow on a broad shoulder of the N slope of Carricktriss hill. The W end of the monument is incorporated at an angle in a fence that runs along the N side of a farm lane. The remains comprise a gallery (L c. 5.1m), opening to the WNW. Its N side is composed of three stones and the S side of four stones; the W stone of the latter side is displaced and protrudes slightly through the fence where its base is visible. The E end of the gallery is closed by a backstone. This end is covered by a single roofstone which partly rests on a small orthostat that stands within the gallery just N of its S side. The exact function of this stone is uncertain. A second displaced roofstone lies on the S gallery wall that forms part of the fence. To the E of the backstone and in line with the gallery sides are two further orthostats which appear to indicate an end chamber (L c. 0.7m), open to the E. The S sidestone of this chamber is partly displaced and leans markedly inwards. Slight traces of a possible mound are visible to the N of the gallery and modern field clearance has been dumped against the fence at its SE end. Fogarty records that it was 'lately [dug] by gold dreamers. It was filled with black earth, charcoal, burned bones etc.' (Fogarty c. 1850, 85). (Ryan 1991, 883-4)

Compiled by: Paul Walsh

Date of upload: 10 May 2021

References

Fogarty, J. 1851-2 Account of antiquities in and around the barony of Iverk, Co. Kilkenny. Manuscript: Department of Irish Folklore, National University of Ireland, Dublin.

Ryan, J. 1991 Two ancient sites at Boolyglass, in south Co. Kilkenny. Old Kilkenny Review 4, 883-4.