History

At the beginning of the twentieth century, La Jolla, California was a quiet coastal community. A small group of Episcopalians had been holding meetings across the street from St. James’ present location in what was known at that time as “Wisteria Cottage” (1906), now home to the La Jolla Historical Society, owned by Miss Virginia Scripps.

In 1907, ground was broken on the site for the Mission Church of St. James by-the-Sea on property donated by Miss Scripps’ half-sister, and fellow philanthropist, Miss Ellen Browning Scripps. The church was built in the Spanish Colonial style so popular in Southern California 100 years ago.  In 1928, Ellen donated the bell tower and set of Deagan bells adjacent to the completed church in honor of her beloved sister, Virginia.  The tower was built by the architect Louis Gill, whose design was based on images from Campo Florida in Mexico.

The congregation soon flourished, and it became apparent that a larger structure was necessary. In 1929, the original church was moved six blocks to 627 Genter Street at the corner of Draper Avenue, where it still stands today as home to the La Jolla Christian Fellowship.

In 1930, our beautiful new church was dedicated, echoing the Spanish Colonial influence of architect Louis Gill and his uncle Irving Gill, both noted architects in the region. The sanctuary, which seats 450, was built at a time when the congregation numbered about 250.

 
Outline of Our History
1899

All La Jolla churches were in one building, Union Church
1906

Virginia Scripps offered Wisteria Cottage for Episcopalian services and Fred Scripps loaned a small parlor organ. Daniel Cleveland presided and began a building fund with $27.60, which was his payment for his services as a lay reader.  Property value was assessed at $8,000.

The Women’s Guild began raising money by sewing bonnets, dresses, skirts and rugs. They held their first sale and raised $92.80. The tradition      continues to present day as the annual “White Elephant Sale,” which raises between $50,000 to $60,000 every year, in support of the parish’s mission and outreach programs. The White Elephant Sale is now in its 87th year.

1907-1908

Mission of Saint James was built on this site, given by Miss Ellen Browning Scripps. It was dedicated by Bishop Johnson on March 8, 1908.

The Baptismal font was made from two large shells from the South Seas, given by Virginia Scripps. (Hence our logo design)

1917-1931

The Rev. William Bedford-Jones moved from Los Angeles to become rector. His vision expanded the buildings you see today, along with the church membership.

1921

Ellen Browning Scripps gave three additional lots to the church. A parish room was added to the rear of the church, and a rectory was built.

1928

Ellen Browning Scripps gave the Bell Tower in memory of Virginia Scripps and two sets of Deagan chimes. She chose Louis Gill as architect, one of the most prominent architects of the day.

The chapel was the gift of Florence Scripps Kellogg, Winifred Scripps Ellis, and Frederick W. Kellogg.

1930

The tower and chapel, designed by Louis Gill, nephew of Irving Gill, were completed.

1931

The Rev. Francis Joseph Field Bloy became rector

1935

The Rev. Francis Eric Bloy, the son of Francis Joseph, became rector

1937

The Rev. Donald Glazebrook became rector and began the completion of the interior of the Church.

1942

The church was consecrated and the debt on St. James was paid in full.

1952

St. James purchased the USO building  on Silverado Avenue, across the street from the south side of St. James and renamed it St. James Hall. Built during the Second World War to serve servicemen stationed in San Diego, the hall has special historical interest as the government built very few buildings especially for the USO. 

1957

 The Rev. Robert Wolterstorff became rector. He later went on to be the first bishop of the newly formed Episcopal Diocese of San Diego.

1974

Succeeding Fr. Wolterstorff, The Rev. Benjamin Lavey became rector until shortly before his death in 1986.

1987

The Rev. Blayney Colmore became rector.

1990’s

St. James Hall was extensively remodeled to include a full restaurant-style kitchen, a raised stage, a fireplace and a central hall capable of accommodating 300 people, which has made it a suitable rental building for large secular events and social activities.

2000

The Rev. Dennis Maynard was made rector to lead St. James into a new millenium.

2006

After a period with The Rev. Ronald Jaynes as interim rector, The Rev. Randal Gardner became rector.
2016 After a period with The Rev. Janet Wheelock and The Rev. Steven Strane as interim rectors, The Rev. Dr. Mark Hargreaves became rector.  
2023 Installation of a new pipe organ, built and designed by Manuel Rosales and the Parsons Organ Builders.