Standing Stones of Ireland

Whispers in Stone: Unearthing the Mystery of Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone

Tucked away in the rolling landscape of County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, stands a piece of ancient history that speaks volumes, despite its words being centuries old and severely worn: the Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone. This monument is particularly rare and significant because it is the only known example of an Ogham Stone inscription in all of County Tyrone.

If you’re looking to connect with deep Irish heritage, this site—located near Greencastle, about 7km north of An Creggan—is a must-see.

The Stone and the Secret Script

The Ogham Stone, which is listed as a Standing Stone or Menhir, wasn't always inscribed. It is believed that the stone was erected first, and the distinctive Ogham inscription was added later, likely before 500 AD.

The stone itself measures approximately 1.25 metres tall, 57 centimetres wide, and 45 centimetres thick (or about 1.2 metres high by 0.5 metres wide according to another description).

The inscription, found on the east (90°) edge of the stone (or the SE corner), is highly deteriorated, with most signs being very faint. However, the accepted interpretation of the Ogham script reads: "DOTETTO MAQI MAGLANI". This phrase, sometimes transcribed as "Do Te Tto Maqi Maglant," links two males' names using the term Maqi. Maqi means "son of" and represents the earliest known form of the modern Irish surname prefix, Mac. It is thought that the stone served as a burial marker or a commemorative inscription.

Historically, the Ogham stone had fallen but was subsequently re-erected on a low mound of stones.

Giants, Fairies, and Bad Fortune

Beyond its archaeological significance, Aghascrebagh is steeped in compelling local folklore, stories passed down through generations.

One tale focuses on the potential repercussions of interfering with these ancient sites, particularly concerning the fairies. A former landowner, who lived in a nearby cottage, decided to try and remove the ogham stone and began digging around it. Bad fortune immediately followed; water began to rise in his byre, bringing havoc to his buildings and animals. Only when the farmer ceased the digging work did normality return to his farm holdings.

Another dramatic local story, information often found on boards erected by the Environment & Heritage Service and Omagh District Council, tells of a giant of a man who was a local landowner. For an unstated misdemeanor, this giant was tied to the nearby standing stone and guarded by twelve strong men. According to tradition, the giant broke free from the stone and killed all twelve guards. It is said that the guards were buried in the graveyard across the road, while the giant landowner himself is believed to be buried under the ogham stone.

More Than Just One Stone

The Aghascrebagh site is part of a cluster of prehistoric features in the area. Just 125 metres west-northwest (or about a hundred to 200 metres to the west) of the Ogham Stone lies the Aghascrebagh Standing Stone. This secondary stone is significantly larger, standing at approximately 2.25 metres high, and has no Ogham inscription.

Furthermore, across the valley to the northeast, you can observe Dun Ruadh, a multiple-kist cairn and circle located about 800 metres away. Other major sites nearby include the complex of the Beaghmore Stone Circles, approximately 6.78km ENE.

Planning Your Visit

The Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone is situated on private land, but thankfully, visitors are welcome. A stile is provided in the fence, and a dirt path leads down to the monument. It is important to remember that the site is open all year, and visitors must always respect the landowner.

For those seeking to explore this unique piece of Northern Irish heritage, the location can be found using the Grid Reference H 61716 83901 or the coordinates N 54° 41' 57.9" W 007° 02' 33.18".