Site Event/Activity record ECH3562 - Saltworks Farm, Frodsham: Desk-based Assessment, September 1993

Archaeological desk-based assessment undertaken in September 1993 for land (38 acres) at Saltworks Farm, Frodsham, in advance of development of the site for residential purposes. Work comprised an investigation of the history of the farm and surrounding land supplemented with a field inspection to identify and record any features of archaeological interest. The present day Saltworks Farm is in a dilapidated state with all the 20th century buildings either derelict or partly demolished. None of the original salt refinery or factory buildings remain standing but wall foundations do survive as do underground chambers. Historical evidence suggests a late 17th century date for the foundation of the complex. Map and placename evidence also suggest the existence of a mill by the River Weaver at the site, although no physical evidence was observed in this project. As far as the outlying land is concerned, very little evidence for earlier activity was found on the reclaimed marshland north of the site. This was drained in 1942 producing a productive mixed arable and grass farmland. On the higher ground at the southern extent two rectangular features were observed on aerial photographs. Their function and date are uncertain but possibly indicate an earlier field system or structure, alternatively they may relate to later drainage of the site. (1)