English-born mill-workers were heavily represented in its early population, while mill owners were successive wardens, vestrymen, and treasurers.

The first church building designed by architect John Notman was completed in 1835 and destroyed by fire on December 23, 1879.

The sanctuary is designed for ad orientem liturgical celebration, which has been practiced occasionally since the 1970s.

It was dedicated and blessed on October 31, 1919 by Bishop Philip M. Rhinelander in memory of Orlando Crease, warden of the parish for 56 years and Sunday school superintendent from 1853 to 1913.

By 1889, St. David's had a surpliced male choir, indicating a somewhat High Church worship orientation.