Did you know that Robert Clive got married right here in namma Chennai?

When the East India Company first set foot in India, and set up a trading post in Fort St. George in Chennai, they also set up a church in the vicinity. The quaint St. Mary’s Church was meant for the devout British residing in the vicinity, and dates back to 1678-80. It was in this very church that Robert Clive got married. St. Mary’s Church also has the distinction of being the first Anglican Church in India.

Nestling cozily amongst the branches of the mango and neem trees, the steeple of the church pierces the canopy of trees to touch the sky. There was a time when liveried British soldiers and ladies in flowing dresses ventured into the church, and it also has the distinction of being visited by the likes of Lord Wellesley, Warren Hastings and Robert Clive within its haloed precincts. This church also solemnized the marriage of Governor Elihu Yale, the founder of Yale University.

The architect of St. Mary’s Church was Edward Foule, whilst the plans were executed by William Dixon. The church boasts of a nave and two aisles, and the altar plays host to an exquisite painting titled “the Last Supper.” The artist has followed Raphael’s unmistakable technique to create this masterpiece. The church’s prized possessions include silver plates and a Bible dating back to 1660. The Sanctuary, Tower, Vestry and the Steeple were added in 1795. The church has a four feet thick, bomb-proof roof, which was designed to withstand the onslaught of cannon balls. 

St. Mary’s Church
Fort St. George
Chennai 600009