Improving Insularity: An Archaeology of the Islands off the north coast of Ireland in the Later Historic Period, 1700-1847

• Main Author: Forsythe, Wes
• Published: Ulster University 2006
• Subjects: 930.1
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.487704

This thesis presents an archaeological survey of 12 islands off the north coast of Ireland in the· post~medieval period (1700-1847). The islands included are located from Rathlin off County Antrim, west to Tory and south to Inishfree Upper off County Donegal.·It seeks to achieve an understanding of the process of social and landscape change in the ei~hteenth and early nineteenth centuries as well as the motivating factors behind these transformations. During the course of fieldwork 338 archaeological sites were recorded (volume II). In addition, a limited programme of geophysical survey and diver inspection was undertaken. The sites represent a wide range of activities reflective of island life in the Age of Improvement. There is a pronounced maritime focus in the survey, including kelp processing sites, boat landing places and shelters, and fishing practises. Wider landscape issues include changes to field systems, evolving settlement patterns and the architectural features of vernacular and estate houses.