On the east side of Garlick Hill at No. 18 and south of Maiden Lane. In Vintry Ward (P.O. Directory).
Earliest mention found in records : "St. James apud viniteriam," c. 1196 (Anc Deeds, A. 6457).
Other forms of name : "St. James by the Thames," c. 1204 (MSS. D. and C. St. Paul's, Press A. Box 12). "St. James apud Tamisyam," 1222 (ib.). "St. James de Garlecheythe," 1275-6 (Cal. L. Bk. B. p. 260). "St. James near the Vintry," 1275 (Ct. H.W. I. 24). "St. James in the Vintry," 1281 (ib. 63). "St. James in Garleckhithe," 1281 (ib. 53). "St. James de Garlekheth," 1293 (ib. 110). "St. James Garlechethe," 1304 (ib. 166). "St James de Garlekhegh," 1324-5 (ib. 310). "St. James de Garlelhude," 1349 (ib. 583). "St. James Garlekhithe," now called "Saint James Comyns," 1481 (Cal P.R. Ed. IV. 1476-81, 252).
Called at "Garlick hith" or "Garlick hiue," for that of old time on the banks of The river Thames, neare to this Church, Garlicke was usually solde (S. 250).
Said to have been new built by Richard Rothing, one of the Sheriffs, in 1326 (S. 250).
North aisle rebuilt and the Church repaired and beautified 1624 (Strype, ed. 1720. I. iii. p. 10) at a cost of £700.
Burnt in the Great Fire and rebuilt by Sir C. Wren. Foundation stone laid 1676, opened 1682, finished 1683 (ib.). Restored 1877.
A Rectory. Patrons : Abbot and Convent of Westminster, until the dissolution of the monasteries-afterwards the Bishop of London.
See St. James (St.) super ripam.