Liverpool's history can be traced back as far as 1190, known as Llifpwll a Welsh word Llif meaning 'flood' and pwll 'pool'. There are several other interpretations including 'Liferpol' meaning muddy pool etc. It was then a small Hamlet.
In 1207 King John founded Liverpool (Livpul) as a borough and port. He invited settlers to come and live here, slowly building its numbers up to become a small farming and fishing community. Troops were also based here and then dispatched to Ireland. The population remained at about 1000 until the early 15th century; this is when the period of economic decline set in, enabling power to the county gentry. Speke Hall was built in 1530 see picture (right). Photography by http://colour-splash.com/ By the mid 16th century, the population had fallen to about 600.
