History & Community Links

A Brief History:
The St. James Community Square building dates from 1913 when the First Congregational Church opened at 11th Avenue and Trafalgar Street. In 1928 the church building was moved to its present location at 10th Avenue and Trutch Street and renamed St. James United Church. The building was moved to make way for an expanding Kitsilano High School.

Besides being a home for spiritual needs, the church building from the beginning served as a meeting place for community. Organizations such as the Boy Scouts called St. James home, and the sanctuary hall was used by theatrical groups.In 1954 the church was extended to the north and in 1960 a major addition, the Christian Education Building, was constructed on the west side of the old church. The expanded facilities were subsequently used by dozens of community and service organizations, including St. James Day Care, which was established in 1970.

A Kitsilano landmark and home to community groups for over 90 years, the St. James building continues to contribute to community needs in our city as St. James Community Square.

Community Links:
St. James Community Square (or The Square) is one of a group of organizations offering a range of services and facilities to members of the community. Other links that may be of interest are:

• Trinity United Church
• Point Grey Community Church
• Kits Neighbourhood House
• Pacific Community Resources Society