This brick church built in 1905 at Mokoia was the work of well-known architect Frederick de Jersey Clere. It's notable for being the first of sixteen brick churches designed by de Clere.
Built in red brick from Pātea, the Anglican church owes much to the generosity of Frances Lysaght, who contributed the land and much of the interior fittings in memory of her late husband, James Lysaght.
The foundation stone was laid on 30 January 1905 by the Right Rev. Dr Wallis Bishop (Wellington) and the church was consecrated five months later. It seated approximately 90 people and measured 56 by 18 feet. The contractor was Mr H.K. Whittington, with Mr E.A. Pacey being responsible for the timber portions.
The church was deconsecrated on 26 July 1992 at a service conducted by Bishop Brian Carrell. Under the guidance of Neville Prowse, the church was dismantled, and many important features incorporated into a new foyer at St Mary's Church, Hāwera.
Related documents:
St James' Church History, Mokoia School and District Centennial 1904 - 2004, C. Purdon (2004).
Many inspect new foyer at Hawera's St Mary's church (Daily News 29 March 1993)
For a higher purpose (Taranaki Daily News 13 July 2013)
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