Nine hole Stone
There is a large multiple Bullaun Stone in Offaly called the Nine hole Stone.
Curiously enough the stone actually consists of a large slab with 10 depressions in it and a small narrow channel along its length.
Up until the early 1800's it was considered to be a curing stone, each of its Bullauns curing a different ailment.
Located in the townland of Meelaghans outside Tullamore the stone is on private property so I met the owner and gained access.
In the 1970's it is reported that the water from the Bullauns was believed to be a cure for warts however this may have been recorded in error as there is also a "Wart Stone" nearby.
The exposed face of the Nine hole Stone is almost perfectly flat and it's possible that the surrounding earth was once several feet lower which would have seen the Bullauns elevated higher and more "table" like.
Like all Bullaun Stones this Nine hole Stone is a mystery and there is no way of knowing for certain what its original purpose may have been.
Grinding grains, nuts, paints and medicines, or collecting rain water perhaps for use in unknown rituals?
Occasionally some Bullaun stones are known as "Cursing" or "Swearing" stones and were believed to be used in attempts to cast spells or curses. Others were believed to have been used to swear an oath of loyalty or make a promise.
Today most are associated with sites of veneration or devotional sites where prayers are offered.
They are often associated with curative properties for illness.
Some Bulluans seem to predate written history but they are difficult to put a date on or reference in time when individual stones appeared in certain areas.
Most of the Bullauns in Ireland have smooth polished depressions in them and are near perfectly circular in appearance.
It's impossible to know their exact function but interesting to ponder and certainly the Nine hole Stone is one of the more unusual Bullaun Stones in Ireland.
The word Bullaun is ocassionaly spelled in Irish as Bulláun, Bullán and Búllán. Although widespread in Ireland they are not unique to the country and similar stones are found worldwide.
The Nine Hole Bullaun Stone is located in a small copse of trees and scrub.
Meelaghans is quite close to Tullamore and lies just across nearby railway tracks in open grassy fields. It is easy enough to find.
Keep the Wheels turning.....
Coordinates here :
53°15'03.5"N 7°26'06.4"W
53.250976 - 7.435099
53.250976 - 7.435099
Being one of the larger and more unusual Bullauns it is well worth visiting but I'd advise checking with the landowner first.
