History Aldersgate

an old illustration of gate, c. 1650.

the ward of aldersgate straddles (now former) line of london wall , old gate , historically divided within , without divisions, deputy (alderman) appointed each division. took in liberty of st. martin s le grand when dis-established in 16th century. however, since ward boundary changes in 2003, of ward without , former liberty , street of st. martin s no longer within ward s boundaries.

in 1554 aldersgate street scene of fraud elizabeth crofts smuggled wall pretend heavenly voice. reputedly 17,000 people came listen give out anti-catholic propaganda.

the old gate taken down in 1617, , rebuilt in same year design gerard christmas. gate damaged in great fire of london in 1666 repaired , remained until 1761. aldersgate street contained bishop of london s chapel , chambers @ london house, used 18th century because closer st. paul s cathedral official residence in fulham, west london.

also on street church of st botolph s aldersgate, south postman s park, named after former principal sorting office in king edward street, , location of memorial heroic self sacrifice.

the house of sarah sawyer, in rose , rainbow court (approximately site of present museum of london), formed 1 of earliest quaker meetings in london (before 1655). in 1675, became dedicated meeting house, box meeting, used quaker women poor relief, on marriage.