At the western end of Duke of Gloucester Street, the brick Wren Building closes the street the way the Capitol closes the other end, and it is older than the town around it. Built between 1695 and 1700, when Virginia’s capital was still at Jamestown, it is described by the College of William & Mary as the oldest college building still standing in the United States. The college itself was founded in 1693 by royal charter and counts Thomas Jefferson among its alumni. The building has had a hard life, damaged by fire in 1705, 1859 and 1862 and rebuilt each time, and it is still a working academic building, with classrooms throughout and faculty offices on the third floor. Flanking it on the colonial campus are the Brafferton, built in the 1720s, and the President’s House, built in the 1730s, and together the three buildings form one of the most beautiful small quadrangles in America. Tours of the campus are available, and many visitors simply walk across the Sunken Garden and past the buildings. Because it is an active campus, check the college’s visiting information before you go.
How the visit works
The Wren Building and its neighbours are part of a living campus, and access depends on the academic calendar, so check the college’s visiting information for current opening arrangements. The grounds and the walk from Merchants Square are the easiest way in, and many visitors stroll across the campus at the end of a day in the Historic Area. Parking is limited on campus, so walk from Merchants Square, which is next door.
What to see
The Wren Building’s long brick front, steep roof and central tower form the image of the college, and inside there are historic rooms including the Great Hall and a chapel. Beside it, the Brafferton was built to house a school for Native American students, funded from the estate of the English scientist Robert Boyle, and the President’s House has been the home of the college’s presidents since the 1730s.
Behind the Wren Building lies the Sunken Garden, a wide lawn used for ceremonies and relaxing in fine weather. Keep in mind that students, classes and graduation events can affect what is open.
Making the most of it
The campus is a gentle contrast to the busy street of the Historic Area, and it makes a pleasant afternoon walk for couples. Take the walk from the Capitol to the Wren Building along Duke of Gloucester Street, with a coffee stop at Merchants Square in the middle. Visit on a weekday in term time if you want to see the campus alive, or in the quieter vacation periods if you prefer peace. Wear comfortable shoes, respect classes in session and follow campus signs about restricted areas.
What to expect
The experience
A walk across the historic William & Mary campus, past the Wren Building, the Brafferton and the President’s House.
Best time
A weekday afternoon or a quiet weekend, as a gentle contrast to the busy Historic Area.
How long
About an hour, longer if you join a campus tour or sit in the Sunken Garden.
Tips
Walk from Merchants Square, check the college’s visiting information first and respect classes in session.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History and architecture lovers, couples and anyone curious about the roots of American higher education.
- Families
- Children enjoy the lawns and the old buildings, but there is little hands-on activity.
- Couples
- A romantic walk in the early evening light.
- Pair with
- A coffee and lunch at Merchants Square, which borders the campus.
- Time needed
- About an hour.
Good questions
How old is the Wren Building?+
It was built between 1695 and 1700 and is described by the college as the oldest college building still standing in the United States.
Is the Wren Building still used?+
Yes. It contains classrooms throughout and faculty offices on the third floor, so it is part of a working campus.
Is there an admission charge?+
Walking the campus costs nothing, but interior access depends on the academic calendar, so check the college’s visiting information.
Where is the Wren Building?+
It stands at the western end of Duke of Gloucester Street, next to Merchants Square and the edge of the Historic Area.
What else is on the historic campus?+
The Brafferton and the President’s House stand beside the Wren Building, and the Sunken Garden lies behind it.
