Trinity St. James
Chapel
The Oldest Anglican Church in Huron County
Trinity St. James Chapel (of Ease) is a historic gem built in the Georgian style in 1855.
As the oldest church in the village and the oldest Anglican Church building in Huron County, it has served as a cornerstone for worship, celebration, mourning, and service to the community for nearly 170 years.
Recently, it transitioned from a full church to a Chapel of Ease, continuing to offer a consecrated space for special services, weddings, funerals, and other significant events. The chapel's unique charm and serene environment make it a beloved landmark in the community.
History
An integral piece of Bayfield’s heritage, Trinity Anglican Church was constructed in 1855 using yellow bricks created in the local brickyards along the Bayfield River. The different shades of brick reflect that the walls were built in stages.
Just like the layering of these bricks, the church's history continues to be built in stages. Early in 2019 Trinity was amalgamated with their sister church, St. James, Middleton, a congregation also rich with its own history and Trinity’s sister church since 1923. At that time, these parishes came together under the Trinity St. James Anglican Church banner.
The church has a rich history of community involvement, including the founding of the Bayfield Area Food Bank and as a long-standing host of Bayfield Guiding. In recent years, faced with declining attendance, the community rallied to preserve this historic site. On April 15, 2024, Trinity St. James transitioned to a Chapel of Ease, ensuring its continued relevance and service to the community while maintaining its historical significance.
Trinity St. James Chapel is more than just a few layers of brick from which to worship. It is an integral part of the community it serves and time only strengthens its mortar.
Gardens
In addition to the quiet, rustic majesty of the church sanctuary, the love for Trinity St. James shines through in the beautiful grounds that have been so carefully curated and tended over many years by volunteers. With the Daffodils first bright pops of color, followed by the rich fragrance of Lily of the Valley in late Spring combined with Roses blooming into summer and fall the gardens are truly a work of art.
Weddings, Funerals, Concerts
The Chapel of Ease remains a consecrated space suitable for hosting weddings and funerals. Its historic charm, stained-glass windows, and serene environment provide a beautiful and meaningful setting for any occasion. The lovely acoustics within the Nave also allow for small intimate concerts. For booking information, please contact the trustees.
