Prehistoric and Roman activity in the wider area was identified in 1881 when an artesian well was sunk 2km west of Widnes. This revealed a medieval jug along with two Roman coins. A 1st century AD Roman coin was discovered and east of this a metal object also of 1st century date. An early crossing point of the Mersey located at the Runcorn Gap is well documented in the medieval period and may have a much earlier origin. A fortified stronghold was established in AD 915 at Runcorn by Aethelflaed to protect the Mercian boundary from invasion by the Vikings. The earliest reference to a ferry dates to before 1190. A grammar school was founded at Farnworth in 1507 by William Smith. As late as 1841 the population of Widnes was only 2,209 and it was still a rural township, with 80% of land under cultivation. The first chemical factory was built by John Hutchinson in 1849 and became known as an important place with extensive chemical works, soap works, and an oil mill. The chemical industry created a large amount of waste and by 1888 Widnes was described by the Daily Post as 'the dirtiest, ugliest and most depressing town in England’. As the town began to grow, the area around Victoria Square gradually developed as a civic centre. A market hall and grounds were opened in 1875, St Paul’s church was dedicated in 1884, the town hall was opened in 1887 and the library and technical college were opened in 1895-6. This effectively created a civic centre in the vicinity of Victoria Square. Widnes had an air of dignity not out of place in any other prosperous town or city at the time. However, beyond the square the town’s reputation was limited to its industry.
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