St John's was built from 1851 to 1853, a wooden structure with Gothic Revival style typified in the vertical emphasis and the pointed arches on the openings.

Perrin observes that the shape and size of the main structure, the location of pulpit, organ and choir stalls inside, the triple window, and the detail of the interior woodwork are all very close to Upjohn's design.

The only major difference is that Upjohn included a tower on the church, whereas St. John's has the bell house as a freestanding structure.

Carpenter Alden Kelly added the bargeboards with incised designs and the rood screen inside the church.

[1][6][7][8][9] Notable previous clergy include Arthur Anton Vogel, fifth bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of West Missouri, who served as rector from 1953 to 1957.