Archaeologists have unearthed the bones of 146 individuals during preparatory work for a new retail store near the historical Woodburn Abbey in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

The remains were mainly men, with some women and infants also found. Credit: Gahan and Long Archaeological Services

The excavation, led by Gahan and Long Archaeological Services, uncovered the bones near the historical site of Woodburn Abbey, believed to date back to the 14th or 15th century. The majority of the remains, consisting of both complete skeletons and partial bones, are believed to belong to men, with some women and infants also found.

The excavation revealed a mix of burial orientations, with most following the traditional Christian practice of east-west alignment. However, some graves deviated from this norm, potentially indicating the burial of executed criminals who were denied full Christian rites. Chris Long, of Gahan and Long Archaeological Services, suggests that these individuals may have been from nearby Gallows Green, where criminals were historically executed.

Further analysis of the remains, including radiocarbon dating and examination by an osteoarchaeologist, aims to provide additional information about the age, Sєx, and health of the individuals. This research could offer information about the living conditions, diseases, and dietary habits of medieval inhabitants of Carrickfergus. Additionally, it may help determine the ethnic origins of the individuals.

The discovery of the graveyard adjacent to the former site of Woodburn Abbey is significant in uncovering the medieval history of Carrickfergus. While the abbey structure itself has not been found, the presence of the cemetery provides valuable evidence of its location and importance as an ecclesiastical center in the medieval earldom of Ulster. The findings highlight the significance of Woodburn Abbey in the religious and social life of the community during the medieval period.

Once the analysis is complete, the remains will be respectfully reburied at a location yet to be determined.