Aldersgate
Aldersgate was one of the four original gates of London. The name has two possible origins, but no one knows for sure which one is correct. Some say it was named after a Saxon who built it named Aldrich, others say it was named after the alder trees that grew around it.
The gate was rebuilt in 1618 after it became dilapidated, but was again damaged in 1666 by [you guessed it] the Great Fire of London.
The centre arch of the gate was to be used for general traffic whilst the two arches either side were for pedestrians. The figure above the main arch is of James I. Above the left arch (eastern arch) was an effigy of the prophet Jeremiah (one of the major prophets of the Hebrew Bible), along with these words "Then shall enter into the gates of this city kings and princes, sitting upon the throne of David, riding in chariots and on horses, they and their princes, the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and this city shall remain for ever." Above the western arch was an effigy of Samuel, with the inscription: "And Samuel said unto all Israel, Behold, I have hearkened unto your voice in all that you said unto me, and have made a king over you."
In 1761 the Aldersgate was sold and taken down.
