 Archaeological studies suggest that the first canal on the site was built by the Romans, possibly in connection with salt extraction in the area; Roman-era pottery sherds have been found and sites of salterns identified.The nineteenth-century canal was constructed to serve the extensive coastal traffic between the agricultural hinterland of Essex and London, with produce and animal fodder being carried into the capital and manure for the fields as cargo for the return trip.The proprietors of the venture were the governors of Guy’s Hospital, who owned agricultural estates in the area.