Anyone have a idea of what this structure is?

[JustGlass]

I found this structure while deer hunting. Its quite large and at first I thought it was a cellear hole, but after a closer look , I dont Know what it is.

 

[JustGlass]

closer front veiw

 

[JustGlass]

side veiw

 

[JustGlass]

standing on top

 

[JustGlass]

looking down into it....( circular )

 

[JustGlass]

oh ya its built on the side of a fairly steep ridge?

 

[GuntherHess]

what region is this located in? that may help.

 

[Ye Olde Prospector]

If I was to make a guess I would say it is an old lime kiln. Some of them date back to colonial times. They were usually located on the side of small ridges so the limestone could be dumped into the top from a wagon. Small hole at bottom was where the finished lime was removed after firing. Early settlers used the lime to make plaster for walls of their homes etc. Early iron kilns were similar in structure but were often brick lined. Where is it located?

Cliff

 

[JustGlass]

Its in the southern part of Vermont in a area more noted for its high concentration of slate quarries.

 

[58froggy]

Great pics. That thing looks huge. Can you describe the "inside"? The center hole in relation to the small front hole. Is it partially enclosed, 'cellar-like" or just the round opening with a 'tube' to it? Kiln fits but, it seems like the walls may be over kill in thickness if that is the case.