St. John's Episcopal Church is a sophisticated design statement which integrates the Gothic Revival and Shingle styles. The high quality of its design and workmanship set it apart as an outstanding example of ecclesiastical architecture of the period.

The building was designed by Arthur B. Benton, an important California architect. Benton's practice was located in Los Angeles, and most of his work was executed in Southern California. He was one of the state's leading proponents of the Mission Revival style, designing a number of important buildings in the style, including the state's grandest surviving example, the Mission Inn in Riverside.

Benton was engaged by the Episcopal Church to design a number of churches in California. His designs show the architect's skill at working in a picturesque mode. His Episcopal churches convey the feeling of English country parish churches. They are charming, yet sophisticated, utilizing Gothic Revival elements in combination with redwood shingles, stone and brick.

Excerpted from the NRHP Nomination.

This church is charming, yet sophisticated. It's a pity that you can't see it for the trees.