History:

The Wren Building is the oldest academic structure in America in continuous use. Built in 1695, two years after the school was chartered, it is the signature building of the second-oldest college in the nation. The building has been partially destroyed by fire three times and has been occupied by soldiers twice. It was the first major building restored by John D. Rockefeller Jr., after he began Williamsburg's restoration in the late 1920s. Classes are still held in the building as well as receptions and special events on the first and second floors. The chapel there has services for the students and is available for weddings. The first floor is maintained as a Colonial Williamsburg exhibition and is open to the public year-round.