Wren Building: then and now

1902 vs 2015 · Williamsburg and Jamestown, VA

NowThen

Then, 1902A color print of the college's main building seen across the green. The date is the Library of Congress print date as given on Wikimedia Commons; this is before the 1928 to 1931 restoration.Photo: Library of Congress print (photographer not named) · Public domain · Source · resized

Today, 2015The restored building, seen from the west side.Photo: Smash the Iron Cage · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source · resized

The story

Work on the building began with the laying of its foundation on August 8, 1695. Classes started in 1700, and the colonial government met there until the Capitol opened in 1704.

A fire on October 29, 1705 destroyed most of the first building. It was rebuilt in 1709 to 1716 using surviving walls, with Governor Alexander Spotswood influencing its design. Fire gutted it again in 1859, and in 1862 Union soldiers quartered in Williamsburg set it on fire.

From 1928 to 1931 it was restored to its colonial look with funding from John D. Rockefeller Jr., and in 1931 it was renamed the Sir Christopher Wren Building. It still holds classes, offices and a chapel.

Did you know? William & Mary calls the Wren Building the oldest college building still standing in the United States.

Historians argue about this. Whether Sir Christopher Wren designed this building is not settled. The attribution comes from Hugh Jones's 1724 book, which says it was 'first modelled by Sir Christopher Wren', and historians disagree about what 'modelled' meant. William & Mary says tradition credits Wren. The building is still a working campus building and work was planned for 2026, so check what is open to visitors.

Fact or tall tale?

DisputedSir Christopher Wren designed the Wren Building.
The attribution rests on a 1724 book and historians disagree. William & Mary says tradition credits Wren.
SolidIt is the oldest college building still standing in the United States.
Both William & Mary and Wikipedia state this, although it is the college's own description.

Sources

More: Look for historic photos at the Library of Congress

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More in Williamsburg and Jamestown

Next: Bruton Parish Church. Written from the cited sources, not yet walked on site unless noted.