Lime Kiln,

The Department's description

Exterior description and setting

A limestone rubble structure on a rectangular plan built into the side of a hillock above the Glencloy River set within a steep dip in a field. There is a rectangular area marked by limestone rubble bounding walls, with two openings, in a ruinous state, built across the front face of the building which itself has twin arched openings. Each opening has a semi-circular red brick arch recessed within an outer semi-circular arch of limestone voussoirs. One recess contains a draw hole which is closed while the other contains a draw hole now broken open through its brick arch to reveal a circular charging hole inside which is lined with basalt rubble and open at the top with a tree growing out of it. Access to the charging holes from the top of the structure is prevented by the amount of overgrowth

Historical information

Precise date of building not known but it appears on the OS map of 1832. Built for the small-scale burning of white limestone, commonly known as chalk, to reduce it to a rough powder for various uses. The dip in which it lies was originally a quarry.

References – Primary Sources
1. OS Map 1832, Co Antrim 29.

Criteria for listing: architectural interest

Not listed

Criteria for listing: historic interest

Not listed

Evaluation

This is an example of a common type of structure which is still numerous but usually, as in this case, is derelict and in incomplete condition.