191213.] 6o,5 



was the stone-roofed cell or chapel known as St. ColumbkilPs 

 House, which is built in a style reminiscent of the famous oratory 

 of Gallerus in County Kerry. St. Columbkill was born in 521 a.d., 

 and the architecture of this structure as well as that of the round 

 tower close by is consistent with the tradition that they were 

 erected during the sixth century. 



From here some of the members made a detour to view the 

 well, named after the same saint, ere proceeding to visit the Cross 

 of Kells. This cross, elaborately enriched with sculptured figures 

 and devices, stands in the main street of the town, and is said to 

 have been raised from the prostrate position in which it was 

 found by Dean Swift. The time at disposal after lunch was spent 

 in exploring the town, whilst some of the members proceeded to 

 the Maudlin Bridge over the River Blackwater ere entraining at 

 3-40 for Drogheda, whence during the evening the party left for 

 their various destinations. This last day's trip being devoted to 

 the interests of the archaeological section few plants of interest 

 were seen, but Carex pendula, which occurred in the woods of 

 Headfort Castle, is worth noting. The mollusks Helix hortensis 

 and Pyramidula rupestris were the only ones of interest seen at 

 Kells, both species occurring in the graveyard at the round tower, 

 while the latter was also common in the crevices between the 

 stones on St. Columbkill's House. Returning by train to 

 Drogheda tea was partaken of in the White Horse Hotel, the 

 abiding place of the members during the excursion, and after- 

 wards the party separated, the majority returning to Belfast, which 

 was reached at 9 o'clock p.m. 



During the visit fifty-eight species of birds were observed, and 

 it is interesting to record that here at least the Goldfinch is 

 common, many of these beautiful birds being noted throughout 

 the district. 



