St. James Episcopal Church, Milwaukee

Saint James鈥� Episcopal Church in Milwaukee is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture and one of the city鈥檚 oldest surviving stone churches. Originally built between 1867 and 1868, it was designed by Detroit architect Gordon William Lloyd and constructed with Wauwatosa limestone. The building features hallmark elements of the English Gothic style: tall lancet windows, clerestory lighting, and a square tower crowned with a broach spire and cross. The tower, completed in 1871, mirrors the main block鈥檚 design with its buttresses and decorative wheel window.

The church鈥檚 story begins earlier, in 1850 when it was founded as a mission of Saint Paul鈥檚 Episcopal Church. The following year, the parish acquired land that had once been Kilbourntown鈥檚 Spring Street Burying Ground鈥攖he first cemetery on Milwaukee鈥檚 west side. Early members included notable figures like Increase Lapham, who hosted the first service in his store, and Alexander Mitchell, who served on the building committee.

On New Year鈥檚 Eve in 1872, a fire gutted the church interior, sparing only the stone walls and bell tower. Restoration was swift, and the church reopened by April 1874. Later, in 1899, a parish house was added, designed by architect John Moller.

Saint James鈥� Episcopal Church stood as an active parish for over 150 years but saw its congregation gradually decline. Its final service was held on November 1, 2017. In 2020, the historic building found new life as an elegant venue for weddings and events.

Located across from Milwaukee鈥檚 Central Library and next to the Saint James Court Apartments鈥攂oth listed on the National Register of Historic Places鈥攖he former church remains a cherished architectural and historical landmark in the city.

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Sight Name: St. James Episcopal Church
Sight Location: Milwaukee, USA (See walking tours in Milwaukee)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Historical Churches Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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