St Mary Aldermanbury facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Mary Aldermanbury |
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St Mary Aldermanbury in 1904
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| Location | Love Lane and Aldermanbury, London |
| Country | England |
| Denomination | Anglican |
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| Demolished | 1966 |
St Mary Aldermanbury was a historic church in the City of London. It was first mentioned way back in 1181. Sadly, it was completely destroyed by the terrible Great Fire of London in 1666.
After the fire, the church was rebuilt using Portland stone by the famous architect Christopher Wren. But history repeated itself during the Blitz in 1940. The church was badly bombed again, leaving only its strong stone walls standing.
In a truly unique move, these remaining stones were carefully taken apart and shipped all the way to Fulton, Missouri, in the United States, in 1966. There, they were rebuilt on the grounds of Westminster College. This rebuilt church now stands as a special memorial to Winston Churchill. Churchill gave his famous "Iron Curtain" speech, also known as "Sinews of Peace", at Westminster College in 1946.
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A Church with a Big History
The original spot where St Mary Aldermanbury stood in London is now a peaceful garden. It's located where London's Aldermanbury and Love Lane meet. A special plaque from Westminster College marks the church's old location.
This garden also has a monument dedicated to Henry Condell and John Heminges. These two men were very important in publishing the First Folio of William Shakespeare's plays. They were also partners with Shakespeare in the famous Globe Theatre. Condell and Heminges lived in the St Mary Aldermanbury area and were buried in its churchyard. The monument in the garden has a bust, or statue of the head, of Shakespeare on top.
The remains of the church in London were recognized as a Grade II listed building in 1972. This means they are an important historical site that needs to be protected.
Famous People Connected to the Church
Many interesting people were connected to St Mary Aldermanbury throughout its long history.
Important Burials
Several notable people were buried in the church or its churchyard. One of the most famous was Judge Jeffreys. He was a very powerful and well-known judge in his time.
Other important people buried here included:
- Edmund Calamy, a respected minister.
- Henry Condell, the actor and partner of Shakespeare.
- William Damsell, a Member of Parliament.
- Thomas Digges, an astronomer who was one of the first to suggest that the universe might be endless.
- John Heminges, the actor and partner of Shakespeare.
- James Janeway, a well-known author and minister.
- William Painter, a famous author.
A Famous Marriage
In 1656, the famous poet John Milton married his second wife, Elizabeth Woodcock, at St Mary's church.
