Community dig underway at historic Loughshinny site

A COMMUNITY dig is currently underway at the historic Drumanagh promontory fort, located between Rush and Loughshinny in north county Dublin.

Drumanagh is a nationally important archaeological site and is of international significance in terms of Ireland’s relationship with the Roman world. The site is also a National Monument subject to statutory protection under the National Monuments Act, 1930 (as amended).

Fingal’s Community Archaeologist, Christine Baker, is undertaking a community excavation at Drumanagh Martello Tower with a team of professional archaeologists and volunteers from the local community and beyond.

Since the site was acquired, the council has carried out works at the site to secure it and provide for continued public access.

The Drumanagh Conservation Study and Management Plan was recently adopted by Fingal County Council after widespread public consultation.

Christine Baker explained; "The community dig is an objective of the plan for Drumanagh so it's fantastic to be undertaking the first scientific excavation at the site. We hope to tell the story around the Martello Tower and the effect of its construction in the early 19th century.

"We will be investigating the original road to the tower. What we uncover will inform the future management of the site. It is also hugely exciting for the local community who have such a love for the site’.
 
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Mary McCamley, commented:  “On visiting this beautiful site I could see the potential for not just archaeological research and education but also the tourism and recreational opportunities”.
 
Ian Doyle, Head of Conservation of the Heritage Council, said: "We are happy to support the Digging Drumanagh Project through our grant system and as chair of the Drumanagh Archaeological Advisory Group it is heartening to see the objectives of the Drumanagh Plan being actioned."
 
Paul Reid, chief executive of Fingal County Council, said: “Drumanagh is of huge value to Fingal but also has wider significance. Council staff from across a number of departments are working on the site’s ongoing protection,   conservation and management so as to realise its full potential and ensure that the site can be appreciated by future generations.”

Digging Drumanagh has also been accepted at a European Year of Cultural Heritage event. The community excavation i now running until May 31. While spaces on the dig have been filled, there is an opportunity to visit and engage with archaeologists and the site.