About

In 1854, when much of the land in the Wallaceburg area was virgin forest, two Anglican priests came to lead services for the early settlers. Their names were the Rev'd Mr. Gunn and the Rev'd Mr. Carey. There is unfortunately no record of where they held services, whom they married, baptized or buried.

The first incumbent at Wallaceburg, the Rev'd William Green, was appointed in 1864, but it was not until 1875 that a resident incumbent was appointed (the Rev'd F. W. Campbell). At that time an old Methodist Church was purchased, refurbished, and named "Holy Trinity." The church was located on the south-west corner of Elizabeth and Lafontaine streets. Tragically, this building was destroyed by fire during the night of Ash Wednesday in 1895. The fire also destroyed all records, books, furnishings and vestments.

Following the fire, the thirty-eight families who comprised the congregation, held services temporarily in local Oddfellows Hall while raising funds to build a new church. Land was donated by Captain James W. Steinhoff. The newly arrived incumbent, the Rev'd Alex Corbett, designed the building, and ground was broken on September 24, 1895. The new church, now called "St. James the Apostle," was opened on March 16, 1896.

• 1911 - A rectory was built.
• 1946 - An organ with a new organ chamber was purchased for $4,200.
• 1947 - The chancel was enlarged, and the heating system rebuilt.
• 1948 - A retaining wall was built in response to damage caused by erosion. Also, oak panelling and a beautifully carved choir screen were installed. Chimes were also installed in the organ.
• 1950 - A beautiful new window depicting Christ's appearance to Mary in the garden was donated and installed.
• 1951 - An artist, Jack Dent, was engaged to paint biblical scenes in the window area between the church and the kitchens. An oaken eagle lectern was also donated.
• 1956 - A memorial garden was designed and planted.
• 1959 - Ground breaking for the building of the hall.