Discovering Medieval Ferns, Co. Wexford

Stephen Mandal, Michael Potterton & Denis Shine, editors

“For a book that seeks to model and promote community engagement in archaeology, first appearances are certainly rewarding. [...] Four Courts Press has published a full-color and thoughtfully laid-out volume, with an attractively low price point. [...] The book’s contents, [...] focus on the archaeology (but also history, geoscience, and art history to lesser degrees) of a small part of southeastern Ireland—Ferns in County Wexford. [...] The book is lavishly illustrated, and it is rare that a feature, find, or place is discussed and not given full pictorial consideration. [...] There are consistent efforts to relate findings to wider European patterns, especially in the architectural studies, but it is at its heart a local history. Those interested in community archaeology and public humanities will find plenty of insightful case studies. [This book is] an attractive, low-cost book that so clearly articulates the importance of integrated interdisciplinary study of medieval archaeology and models a community-informed practice.” Victoria L. McAlister, Speculum 101/3, July 2026