The Wren Building
4.5(15)
Academic department
About
The Sir Christopher Wren Building at William & Mary is the oldest college building still standing in the U.S., dating back to 1695. It has served as classrooms, dining halls, and faculty offices for over three centuries, blending historic character with ongoing academic use.
Located at the campus entrance in Williamsburg, the building features restored colonial architecture with original masonry and woodwork. Its versatile spaces accommodate small lectures and meetings, offering a distinctive setting for intimate business events near Colonial Williamsburg.
Best for
- Historic campus tours & educational events
- Small academic meetings & faculty gatherings
- Heritage celebrations & alumni receptions
Standout features
Historic Architecture
Oldest college building in the U.S., dating to 1695–1700
The Sir Christopher Wren Building is the oldest college building still standing in the United States. It has been rebuilt multiple times after fires but retains its original foundations and colonial character, serving as the heart of William & Mary
Historic Significance
Centerpiece of early Williamsburg and colonial Virginia
Before Williamsburg was founded, the Wren Building stood on what was then Middle Plantation. It served as the temporary government headquarters from 1700 to 1704 and has deep ties to colonial history and prominent figures like Benjamin Franklin and
Ongoing Preservation
Active restoration to preserve centuries-old architecture
The building underwent a comprehensive renewal in 1999–2000 and is currently undergoing preservation work to replace the roof, repair masonry, waterproof the foundation, and stabilize the structure for continued use into its fourth century.
At a glance
Location & hours
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Hours
Sunday11am – 5pm
Monday10am – 5pm
Tuesday10am – 5pm
Wednesday10am – 5pm
Thursday10am – 5pm
Friday10am – 5pm
Saturday9:30am – 5pm
Rated 4.5 on Google · 15 reviews