The Roman road between the legionary fortresses at Chester (Deva Victrix) and York (Eboracum) crosses Trafford, passing through Stretford, Sale, and Altrincham.[7] The settlements in Trafford have been based largely around agriculture, although Altrincham was founded as a market town in the mid 13th century.[8] Although the Industrial Revolution affected Trafford, the area did not experience the same rate of growth as the rest of Greater Manchester.[9] A 100% increase in population in the Trafford area between 1841 and 1861 was a direct result of an influx due to the construction of the Manchester, South Junction and Altrincham Railway, which allowed residents to commute more easily from Trafford into Manchester.[9] The area developed its own centres of industry in Broadheath (founded in 1885) and Trafford Park (founded in 1897).[10] They have since declined, although Trafford Park still employs 40–50,000 people.[11][12] Today, Trafford is mostly a commuter area.