In 1851 the congregation bought the land where today's church stands, which had been the site of Kilbourntown's Spring Street Burying Ground - the first cemetery on the west side of what would become Milwaukee.

[4] Many of the early settlers were Yankees, and many prominent people were members, with the first Episcopal service held in Increase Lapham's store, and Alexander Mitchell serving on the parish's building committee.

The main block was built first, in 1867–68, with walls of Wauwautosa limestone, tall lancet openings, and clerestory windows above the side aisles.

Over the years, the congregation dwindled until the church held its final service on November 1, 2017 and was sold.

[7] Media related to Saint James Episcopal Church (Milwaukee) at Wikimedia Commons