'Ring around the Ring Barrow' honours ancient burial

More than 40 people linked hands around an ancient burial site last evening to help raise awareness of the archaeological importance of a bit of commonage at Old Kilcullen, writes Brian Byrne.

The occasion was organised by the Old Kilcullen Area Community Association and incorporated the now-annual talk by Gerry O'Donoghue at Old Kilcullen on the eve of the anniversary of the 1798 Rebellion.

Extending his talk this year to the background of the ring barrow, which could date back 5,000 years, Gerry spoke about some of the living and burial practices of the period.

He noted that such burial places are found in great numbers across The Curragh, and it is conceivable that the proximity to the ancient gathering place of Knockaulin and The Curragh may be connected to the ring barrow at Old Kilcullen.

Christy Howard, chairman of OKACA, said the group hopes to open discussions with relevant archaeological and heritage authorities with a view to preserving the barrow while also making information available and having it accessible for visitors.

Gerry O'Donoghue concluded his talk by once again referencing the 1798 Rebellion, with the main battle at Old Kilcullen having taken place on 24 May. He noted again the headstone to a Patrick Cullen, who died in 1798 on on that day, aged 24, and speculated that he was perhaps a combatant.

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