Forging Links on Old Turnpike Road

Archaeological discoveries on this scheme included two fulachtaí fia, habitation sites, a blacksmith's forge, and a portion of the 18th-century Rathmore to Killarney turnpike road.
This short film showcases the forge and turnpike road excavations. The portion of a Turnpike road discovered during these excavations is believed to have been a section of ‘The Butter Road’ also known as the ‘Straight Road’ or the ‘Old Kerry Road’ which was built in 1748 to link Cork-Millstreet-Castleisland-Listowel, with a branch to Killarney. The forge was constructed as a direct response to the construction of the turnpike road.
These two excavations (Gortanahaneboy East 2&3) were excavated in advance of construction of the N72 Stagmount Bends Road Improvement Scheme, Co. Kerry by AMS for Kerry County Council and the TII.