Sir Christopher Wren Building

{{youtube:medium:right|f66LXPfy4Ac}}Originally constructed between 1695 and 1700, the Wren Building serves as a welcoming gateway to the heart of campus and the backdrop for many of W&M’s most beloved traditions. Imagine studying within these historic walls, where leaders have gathered for centuries to challenge ideas, develop solutions and advance ideals that shape history. Having a class in the Wren Building is a bucket list item for W&M students.

The Wren Building is currently undergoing a preservation project that will replace the nearly 100-year-old roof, waterproof the foundation and more. It will still be accessible to visitors throughout the project. Stop by and get a tour from a member of the Spotswood Society.

W&M Traditions at the Wren

This historic building unites our community across class years and generations, from first-year students attending Opening Convocation in the Wren Yard to graduating students ringing the Wren Bell. The brick pathways leading to its doors remind us that we walk in the footsteps of those who came before — trailblazers and visionaries — while forging new paths for those yet to come.

Opening Convocation

On the first day of classes, entering students process across the Wren to cheers and high-fives from faculty, staff and students on the other side.

Yule Log

Holiday cheer abounds during this festive annual tradition of singing, stories and tossing a sprig of holly into the fire.

Candlelight Ceremony

Surrounded by the glow of candlelight and the words of the honored speakers, graduating students reflect on their time at W&M.

Commencement

With a nod toward Opening Convocation during their first year on campus, graduating students walk through the Wren in the opposite direction, ready to start their next chapter.

Virtually Tour the Wren Building

Take in the view from the Wren Portico and explore William & Mary on our virtual tour.

Launch Experience

Queen Elizabeth II visited W&M in 1957 and again in 2007, marking the 350th and 400th anniversaries of the Jamestown landing. In 1957, she addressed a crowd of 20,000 from the Wren balcony.

History of the Wren

Originally constructed between 1695 and 1700, the Wren Building caught fire and was repaired three times. A true campus icon, generations of William & Mary students have attended classes, special events and chapel services in the building.

The Wren Building’s long history has helped fuel some popular campus myths and ghost stories about the crypt and tunnels beneath the building. Many rub the statue of Lord Botetourt’s shoes for good luck on exams.

Learn more about Historic Campus

Special Event and Filming Location

The grand scale and architecture of the Wren Building make it a sought-after backdrop for films and TV. In 2015, AMC Network’s “TURN: Washington’s Spies” transformed the Great Hall into an 18th-century English throne room. References to W&M and its campus have appeared throughout popular culture. Are you interested in hosting an event at the Wren Building?

Plan Your Event

Ringing the Wren Bell

Ringing the 650-pound bronze Wren bell is a treasured tradition. On the last day of classes, graduating students ring it to commemorate their time at the university. When alumni return to campus for Homecoming & Reunion Weekend, many ring the bell once again. The bell also chimes each February to celebrate Charter Day, W&M’s birthday.