Church of St.Mary, the Virgin, Aldermanbury

The Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury is a historic reconstruction of a 17th-century London church, now located on the campus of Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, above the Winston Churchill National Museum. Rebuilt using original stones from England and serving as a memorial to Winston Churchill, the church offers a glimpse into its storied past, including its connection to Sir Christopher Wren and potential historical ties to William Shakespeare. A small fee is charged for tours, which are available to the public.

The Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury has a rich history spanning over 800 years. Originally founded in the late 11th or early 12th century in London, it was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and later rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren. The church was again destroyed during World War II in 1940 by incendiary bombs. In 1965, the decision was made to relocate and reconstruct the church using original stones from its London site, now standing over the Churchill Memorial Museum on the Westminster College campus in Fulton, Missouri. This reconstruction is believed to preserve the architectural legacy of Wren and the church’s historical significance, including speculation that William Shakespeare once attended services there. The aesthetics and sound quality of the rebuilt church are widely praised, with its pipe organ and historical exhibits drawing visitors. A small fee is required for public tours, offering access to this hidden treasure.

The Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury in Fulton, Missouri, offers a quiet, historically rich space for reflection and worship. A reconstruction of a 17th-century London church, its presence above the Winston Churchill National Museum adds to its unique character. First-time visitors will notice the care in its stonework and the reverence of its setting.

Pros

• Historic reconstruction using original London stones adds unique architectural interest
• Features a notable pipe organ praised for its sound quality
• Located on a college campus with connections to Winston Churchill
• Offers historical exhibits that enrich the visitor experience
• Small fee for tours provides access to a well-preserved site

Cons

• Information about regular worship services or congregation activities is not clearly presented
• Site presence appears limited to a thin webpage with minimal detail
• No specific details about community programs or family ministries are available
• Accessibility features for visitors with mobility needs are not described