St. James Roman Catholic Church (Manhattan) facts for kids
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St. James' Roman Catholic Church
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(2007)
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 Location in Lower Manhattan
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| Location | 32 James Street Manhattan, New York City |
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| Built | 1835–1837 |
| Architect | attributed to Minard Lafever |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 72000884 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | July 24, 1972 |
St. James' Roman Catholic Church is a historic church in New York City. You can find it at 32 James Street in the Two Bridges area of Lower Manhattan. It's one of the oldest Catholic buildings in the city, built between 1835 and 1837. The church is made of strong fieldstone and has two grand Doric columns at its entrance. This neo-classical building might have been designed by Minard Lefever, but we don't have definite proof. Long ago, the church even had a dome-shaped top called a cupola.
Contents
History of St. James' Church
How the Church Started
The St. James' parish was created by Bishop John Dubois. He wanted to help with the large crowds at another church, St. Peter's. Bishop Dubois bought an old church building and asked Father Félix Varela to start a new group of worshippers there. Father Varela also opened a free school for children.
In 1833, people found out that the old church building was not safe anymore. So, a new church was planned for James Street. While the new building was being built, the church rented a space nearby. However, some people thought this new spot was too far away. They decided to buy a different church building instead. This new church became the Church of the Transfiguration. Father Varela became its first leader.
Early Days and Leaders
The very first church service at the new James Street building happened in its basement on September 18, 1836. The church was officially opened in January 1837 by Bishop Dubois. It was named after St. James the Apostle. Andrew Byrne was chosen as the first leader of the church.
Later, other leaders took over, including Rev. John Maginnis and Rev. John N. Smith. In 1848, Father Smith became sick with an illness. He caught it while helping another priest who was caring for new immigrants.
Famous Connections and Community Efforts
A well-known politician named Alfred E. Smith used to be an altar boy at St. James' Church. He attended the church's school, the former St. James Elementary School, which was right across the street.
In 1983, city officials ordered the church to close because its roof was in danger of falling. It was even planned to be torn down in 1986. But the community worked hard to save it! Groups like the Ancient Order of Hibernians helped a lot. This group actually started at St. James' Church in 1836.
On January 11, 2011, the church had a big fire that caused a lot of damage. In 2007, St. James Parish joined with the nearby Parish of St. Joseph. Then, in 2015, this combined parish joined again with the Church of the Transfiguration.
Pastors of St. James' Church
- Fr. Andrew Byrne, 1837–1842
- Fr. John Maginnis, 1842
- Fr. John N. Smith, 1842–1848
- Fr. Patrick McKenna, 1848–1858
- Fr. Thomas Martin O.P. 1858–1859
- Fr. James Brennan, 1859–1865
- Fr. Felix Farrelly, 1865–1880
- Fr. John J. Kean, 1880–1901
- Fr. James B. Curry, 1901–?
See also
In Spanish: Iglesia de Santiago (Nueva York) para niños
