There’s little information to be found on the history of St. James C. M. E. Church, but the Boston town website notes that the congregation was established in 1896. I believe the present structure was built in the early 1900s.

A 1909 broadside in the Hargrett Library in Athens advertises a gospel meeting for the week of October 12-17, and illustrates the progressive nature of the congregation. Rev. G. A. Thomas was pastor at the time. The broadside reads: “Behold a royal feast of mind and soul. This promises to be one of the best occasions of its kind. Together with the religious services there will be a literary feature attached. It is ours to seek the general welfare and uplift of our people irrespective of denominations. In all things let God have the uppermost place in our hearts.” Tuesday night, Professor L. S. Wingfield gave the introductory sermon, and Mrs. Lilla Robinson gave a speech entitled “Our Young Men”. Wednesday night’s sermon by Rev. A. R. Starling addressed “The Safety of the Young Men” and Mrs. L. S. Wingfield spoke of “Our Young Ladies”. Rev. Brookins of the A. M. E. Church gave the Thursday night sermon, while Mrs. Dr. Taylor talked about “The Moral and Intellectual Progress of the Negro”. On Friday, Professor Wingfield spoke of “The Demand for an Education, Ministry and the Idea of the Young Men becoming Christians”. Dr. Taylor addressed “Hygiene and the Laws of Health”. After music there was further discussion, this time by several speakers, suggesting that the Middle Class were more ardent supporters of the Church than the more wealthy. Saturday night attendees heard Mrs. M. M. Davis discuss “The Business Turn of the Negro”. Sunday was “High Day”, with preaching all day. Music was provided by: Adie Richardson, Maggie and Nellie Massey, Bessie Walton, Rosa L. Slater, Lessie L. Robinson, Bessie Slater, and Bertha Slater, Mrs. Wright Brooks, Mrs. James Zanders, Adeline Richards, Carrie Thomas, Mary Jane Richardson, and others. They were directed by Mrs. L. S. Wingfield.

Boston Historic District, National Register of Historic Places