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AR01055_EMAP_Gazetteer_of_Sites_4-2_10.pdf - The Heritage ...

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Antrim<br />

Ballynoe, Co. Antrim<br />

Early Medieval Settlement Enclosure.<br />

Grid Ref: J18649058 (31864/39058)<br />

SMR No. ANT 044:043<br />

Excavation Licence: N/A<br />

Excavation Duration/Year: March 1973.<br />

Site Director: C. J. Lynn (Historic Monuments Branch, Department <strong>of</strong> the<br />

Environment).<br />

This sub-rectangular-shaped enclosure was excavated after the landowner put a drain<br />

through the centre <strong>of</strong> the site (Fig. 11). <strong>The</strong>re was very little trace <strong>of</strong> occupation, although a<br />

possible hut platform was excavated close to the south corner <strong>of</strong> the interior, and<br />

approximately 50 sherds <strong>of</strong> souterrain ware were discovered in this area. Twenty sherds <strong>of</strong><br />

everted-rim ware were found in the north corner, but were interpreted as a later<br />

accumulation.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re is little occupation evidence and the site also appears to be unsuitable for an animal<br />

corral, because the centre is damp and peaty. <strong>The</strong>re is a paved entrance, but this paving<br />

does not extend into the damp centre (indicated by the flax pit), where it would have been<br />

most needed.<br />

It has been suggested by the excavator that Ballynoe may be some form <strong>of</strong> early ‘ritual’ site<br />

associated with a spring.<br />

Fig. 11: Plan <strong>of</strong> Ballynoe, Co. Antrim (after Lynn 1980, 30).<br />

20

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