In
Medieval times, the land on which our church stands was owned by the
Canons of St Paul’s Cathedral – now echoed in the names
of our surrounding streets – Prebend Street, St Paul’s Street,
Canon Street, Rectory Street and Bishop Street.
The Clothworkers' Company acquired the land during the reign of Henry VIII. Above the internal west door to the church you will see a small effigy of William Lambe, a Gentleman of the Chapel Royal who became Master of the Clothworkers in 1569.
Islington owes much to this benefactor and his Company - the present church was built in 1875, replacing their own Chapel in Cripplegate which had existed since at least the thirteenth century (close to the Roman site of the old London Wall).
The
adjoining Almshouses were built by them in 1854; others were built in
the City and on Essex Road. The Clothworkers continued to attend services
at St James’ until the 1980’s.
St
James’ Church took over the parish of St Philip (Linton Street)
in 1953 and St Peter (Devonia Road) after its closure in 1981. The present
Church Hall was opened on St James’ day in July 1995 – and
was honoured shortly after by a visit from Charles, Prince of Wales,
when the Bishop of London blessed the new building.
Historic detail is taken, with permission from
St James’ Church, Islington – A History by Peter Baugh.
The full volume is available for purchase in the Church.
Past Clergy - transcribed
from the board in the Church Porch
|
Patron: The Abbey of Gerondon. Lincs ROBERT de ST. LAWRENCE, 1250 Patrons: The Clothworkers’ Company ARTHUR JACKSON, 1625
W. MARTIN, (FIRST VICAR), 1875-1880
C. W. J. DINSDALE, (FIRST VICAR), 1953
Patron: The Bishop of London GEOFFREY MARLOW, (FIRST VICAR), 1987-1992 |
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