In 1873, a group of English industrialists known as the Southern States Coal, Iron and Land Company purchased large tracts of land and set out to develop the town of South Pittsburg. From England they brought a desire to worship in their native Anglican tradition. The first Episcopal services were held in December 1876 under the direction of the Rev. H.H. Sneed, rector of St. Paul's, Chattanooga. The mission flourished, and by 1880 the congregation recognized a need for its own church building after first meeting in the pattern room of the company's shop and later in the company's chartered school. With the guidance and support of Bishop C.T. Quintard, a building committee headed by Joseph Lodge was appointed. In 1883 the first services were held in the present church, though the building was not completed until the following year. The bell tower and rectory were added in 1888, followed by the addition of the parish house. Christ Church became known for its architectural beauty in its classic white frame exterior and rich wood-paneled interior, especially its altar piece and stained glass windows, most of which were given as memorials, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.