Runcorn Town Hall

In January 1854, the land on which the building stands was bought by Thomas Johnson from Francis Selkeld for £4,280 (). Thomas was the younger brother in the partnership of John & Thomas Johnson, soap and alkali manufacturers in Runcorn. In 1853–56, a mansion was built for Thomas on the land to a design by Charles Verelst (formerly Reed), The name of the mansion was Halton Grange and its gardens were planned by Edward Kemp. In the 1860s, the Johnson brothers became involved in the American Civil War by trying to break a naval blockade at Charleston but all their ships were sunk, resulting in a considerable loss of money. They eventually became bankrupt in 1871. In that year, Halton Grange…

The ground floor includes the mayor's parlour, a members' room and committee rooms. On the upper floor are reception rooms and a kitchen. A more modern council chamber has been added to the rear. The entrance hall has a mosaic floor, probably by Minton, in the centre of which is the figure of a young girl's head, possibly the daughter of Thomas Johnson. The mayor's parlour has an unusual feature, a window above the fireplace. This is concealed by a mirror which can be slid sideways. The chimney for the fireplace is built into the wall to the right of the window. In 1822 the paintings were sold, and by 1825 they were hanging in the entrance hall of Eaton Hall. It is likely that they were…