Lough Boora Parklands

Peatlands are a very important source of archaeological information in Ireland. Objects are preserved in peatlands, because of the acidity of peat and the anaerobic environment which exists within peatland deposits.

Bord na Móna has agreed a Set of Principles with the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, under which the archaeological implications of peat harvesting will be managed. An Operating Code of Practice has been drawn up.

Archaeological finds from centuries ago

On several occasions, Bord na Mona men working in what was once Drinagh bog came across "bog butter" - butter that had been buried in the bog. In pre-Christian times this practice was linked to a magic ritual, however, the butter found in Drinagh dates to the 17th or 18th century. During this era burying butter in the bog became popular again and although we are uncertain why, it is thought that it was done to preserve it in times when salt was in short supply.

Certainly the butter found in Drinagh bog contained no salt. When buried, the butter’s consistency changes - bog butter tends to resemble lard. In past generations, when found, it was used and sold as axle-grease for carts.