Established in 1862, the building, a National Historic Site of Canada, was constructed in 1907–1908 in the Byzantine Revival style, unique for an Anglican church.

The Group of Seven murals by J. E. H. MacDonald, Frederick Varley and Franklin Carmichael were a unique example of religious works by the circle, typically known for their landscapes.

St. Anne's is constructed of concrete and brick and has a cruciform plan with a distinctive central dome, 21 metres (69 ft) in height.

[1] In 1923 Canon Lawrence Skey commissioned artwork for the interior; the project was led by J. E. H. MacDonald,[5] one of the founding members of the Group of Seven.

[5] The group also included sculptors Frances Loring and Florence Wyle, who created medallions and the reliefs of the four apostles.