The history of Trinity Episcopal Church dates back to the mid nineteenth century to the family of Thomas James, the founder of the Iron Works at Maramec Springs. Episcopal services were held in various homes in St. James, starting in 1875 at the home of Jane Dun Smith. A small wood Gothic church was later constructed and was consecrated January 13, 1894 by Bishop Tuttle.

Since that time many people have contributed to the growth and welfare of Trinity Church. In 1934 Lucy Wortham James, granddaughter of Thomas James, donated the funds to enclose the original wood Gothic structure in stone, adding a bell tower, creating a Romanesque structure. She also donated the Tree of Life stained glass window which occupies the back wall of the nave, given in memory of her great uncle, Robert Graham Dun, co-founder of Dun and Bradstreet. In 1956 a final addition was made which lengthened the chancel to its present size, adding the stained glass rose window over the alter.

The James Foundation, created by the estate of Lucy Wortham James, continues to benefit both the town of St. James and Trinity Church in an ongoing relationship. Many other faithful families in the church have made bequests which have provided for the intricately carved alter and alter rail, pews, and multiple stained glass windows, all of which reflect the love for and pride in this lovely gem of a mission church. A new electronic Allen organ will be dedicated March 5th 2006, the latest manifestation of our congregation's devotion to a heritage of 125 years in the Diocese of Eastern Missouri