In 1855 Kelly's Directory described Chadwell Heath as a straggling hamlet in the parish of Dagenham situated for most part on the turnpike road from Great Ilford to Romford. It is possible that a small settlement existed back to the days of the early Saxons when Cedde was Bishop of London. Chad was the bishop's brother, for his saintly lifestyle he was canonised, becoming patron saint of wells and medicinal springs. This plaque was placed in Billett Lane at the site of a well reputed to have beneficial properties to people with weak eyesight. Until the London Water Company extended its mains the well was the only water supply nearby cottages had.

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