Castle - unclassified

The National Monuments Service's description

Not visible at ground level. Possible 16th-century tower house (ITA Survey 1942; Shaw 1971, 61-2; Loeber 1988, vol. 3, 36-7). Described in 1974 by the Offaly Historical and Archaeological Society (OHAS) that 'The remains of this slight mound (OF024-026002-) of loose stone have now been removed' (OHAS file 1974). Described in 1942 as being situated 'on a low slightly isolated ridge in open undulating country, beside a hollow which may have contained water. A lone pear-shaped artificial mound , 54 x 20 yds. 8 feet high at SW and sloping down to 3 feet on NE. On it are a few foundations of mortared walls, with one corner; but much has probably been dug away, and no plan can be made. In the adjoining cottage are a good many squared stones (OF024-026003-) probably from the castle and a side jamb of an unglased window with barholes, 29 inches between transomes of section. Perhaps XVIth century' (ITA Survey 1942).

The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Offaly' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.

Date of upload: 23 May 2011

References

Irish Tourist Association. Surveys undertaken in the 1940s for the Irish Tourist Association (now Fáilte Ireland) relating to ‘Natural features, antiquities, historic associations etc.' Extracts from these surveys were copied into the Topographical files of the Office of Public Works and these have been incorporated into the Sites and Monuments Record files (National Monuments Service).

Loeber, R. 1988 Field notes and references for Co. Offaly Sites. Vol. I-V. Unpublished.

Shaw, Rev. A.L. 1971 Parish of Killoughy. Offaly.