The North Woolwich branch of the
Great Eastern Railways opened in 1846. The line ran between Stratford and North Woolwich
and was originally intended only for coal and other goods. The station between Stratford
and Woolwich was first known as Barking Road and the area around the station
was originally called Hallsville. Population grew most quickly in the area
round the station. Gradually it became known as Canning Town and included Stephenson
Street, Bidder Street and Wharf Street.