(ST.) MARTIN LUDGATE

   On the north side of Ludgate Hill at No. 40 (P.O. Directory). In Farringdon Ward Within.

   The parish extends into Farringdon Ward Without.

   First mention: "Sanct' Martin' de luthgate," 1 Rich. I. (Cott. MS. Vesp. B. IX.).

   Other forms : "St. Martin of Ludgate," c. 1223 (H. MSS. Com. 9th Rep. p. 15). "St. Martin the Little at Ludgate" (ib.). "St. Martin the Less," 1273-4 (Ct. H.W. II. 17). "St. Martin de Ludgate," 1290 (ib. 93). "St. Martin the Less within the walls of Ludgate," 1291 (ib. 101). "St. Martin within Ludegate," 1313 (ib. 242). "St. Martin without Ludgate," 1316 (ib. 266). "St. Martin in Bowyerrowe within Ludgate," 1446-7 (ib. II. 512).

   Grant in 1425 of land at the west end of the church 28 ft. long and 24 ft. wide whereon to build a belfry in the shape of a tower, to have two gates in it, 4 H. VI. (Cal. L. Bk. K. p. 44).

   In Stow's time lately new builded (p. 341). Repaired and beautified 1623 (Strype, ed. 1720, I. iii. 175). Burnt in the Fire and rebuilt 1684 (ib.) with Spire Steeple (ib. 193).

   A Rectory. Patron : Abbot and Convent of Westminster ; afterwards the Bishop of London.

   Described as "Ludgate Church" in 1716 (L.C.C. Deeds, Harben Bequest, 1700-1800, No. 16).

   Dedication to St. Martin of Tours.