pump. The mines of rock salt were discovered in 1670; the upper stratum lying from 180 to 200 feet below the surface of the ground. This vein was 30 feet in thickness, but, we believe, is now abandoned, as, a century after the above discovery, a superior description was obtained at from 100 to 150 feet lower, the intermediate space being a mass of stone. The interior of these mines has a most brilliant appearance when lit up by candles; the roof and pillars then resemble the most sparkling crystal; but they must be seen to be estimated.
Northwich was fortified by the Parliamentarians during the civil war, but, after an obstinate resistance, was taken by the Royalists; it was, however, once more taken by the Parliament, and held till the Restoration.
Knutsford is a market town and parish in the hundred of Bucklow; it has a population of 2,823; An. As. Val. £5,051. Its market is held on Saturday: fairs. Whit-Tuesday. July 10, and November 8, for cattle and drapery. The principal manufactures carried on here are those of tanned leather, sewing thread, &c. The church is dedicated to St. John; the living is a vicarage, in the archdeaconry and diocese of Chester, endowed by the Crown with £400; and £16 per annum by a private benefaction; patrons, the lords of the following manors, in succession:-Over Knutsford, Nether Knutsford, Ollerton Toft, and Buxton. The town has a Sessions House, a spacious County Prison, three places of worship for Dissenters, and two
