Built in 1900 St James’ Anglican Church stands proudly. Its Italian Romanesque style is striking. The tower and east elevation are local landmarks. This wasn’t always the case.
St James’ Church began as a mission in 1879. Local merchant James Smith played a key role. He suggested Robert Hopkins establish a mission in Newtown. Services initially took place in a hall. Growth led to a larger building. Architects McKay and MacGregor designed it. Wilson Waters and Robertson built it. The church opened in October 1900.
The congregation thrived for years. By 1928 it boasted 489 communicants. Rev William Shirer served for over four decades. He retired in 1929. The church’s golden age was somewhat over. The building’s size then became a problem. The congregation shrunk. Suburban churches and changing demographics impacted St James’.
Radical alterations happened in 1955. This was under Rev Lloyd Geering. He was a controversial theologian. The high pulpit was removed. Rear pews were stored. The nave was subdivided. A lounge and kitchen were added. A section of the site was sold. The old Sunday school became apartments. The timber church hall was demolished.
St James’ hosted diverse congregations. English-speaking Presbyterians worshipped there. So did Niue-speaking Presbyterians and Assyrians. In the 1960s the congregation became more diverse. It included Maori Pacific Islanders and people from various other countries. The church even gave a Christmas cake to the Highway 61 Bikies in 1975.
In 1971 the church underwent significant repairs. The original totara piles were replaced. It was re-roofed. Alterations were made to the sanctuary and seating. A Maori congregation used the ‘Lower Hall’ as an impromptu Marae. By 2011 earthquake concerns forced congregations to relocate. The English-speaking congregation moved to Trinity Union Church. The Niue-speaking one went to St Giles Presbyterian Church. Despite these changes St James’ remains a prominent landmark. A testament to its history and community impact. It still stands tall a testament to the enduring spirit of faith in Newtown Wellington.