Born in Salisbury, Massachusetts, Pike pursued classical studies, then studied theology at Wesleyan University in Connecticut from 1837 to 1839. He served as a minister from 1841 to 1854. He moved to Pembroke, New Hampshire, in 1854. Pike was elected as an American Party candidate to the Thirty-fourth Congress and reelected as a Republican to the Thirty-fifth Congress (March 4, 1855 - March 3, 1859). He was not a candidate for renomination in 1858. During the Civil War, Pike served as colonel of the 16th New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry, from November 1, 1862, to August 20, 1863. He fought in the Siege of Port Hudson in 1863. He was an unsuccessful candidate for governor of New Hampshire in 1871. He resumed preaching and became presiding elder of the Dover district. He discontinued active duties in 1886 and lived in retirement until his death in Newfields, New Hampshire, July 26, 1895. He was interred in Locust Cemetery.

• United States Congress. "James Pike (id: P000347)". Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.

• James Pike at Find a Grave

  This article incorporates public domain material from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress