In the grounds of the Slieve Russell Hotel (H 289 166) near Ballyconnell is a a fine example of a wedge tomb, originally located at Aughrim on the south east side of Slieve Rushen, but moved to and reconstructed at the Slieve Russell Hotel before quarrying in 1992. A 6 metre long gallery lies is within a low round cairn, which is retained by a kerb. The stones along the gallery are supported by buttressing stones and at the west end is a tall stone that splits the entrance to the gallery. There is a small portico area before the main chamber. Both burnt and unburt bones, as well as Early Bronze Age pottery were found during the excavation prior to the monument’s removal. Three small stone lined boxes or kists were later placed inside the kerb.

This tomb has been relocated from the southeastern shoulder of the Slieve Rushen (from which the hotel took its name) at Aughrim, County Cavan, following a full archaeological excavation. It fits into a category of megalithic monument known as “Wedge Tomb.” Local folklore referred to the tomb as “The Giant’s Grave” These tombs are thought to date from the late Neolithic early Bronze Age (circa 4,000 years ago).

A rough circular kerb retained the cairn around the tomb. In this reconstruction a different stone has been used to highlight portions which had been removed sometime in the past. During excavation, evidence of both inhumation and cremation was uncovered from the tomb gallery and under the cairn. Decorated pot fragments associated with these burials were also uncovered.

Mr. John Channing, Archaeologist, conducted the excavation during August/September 1992 The project was funded by the Quinn Group and made possible by the kind permission of the Office of Public Works