Fraser, Dr

This item is active and ready to use

Fraser, Dr

Watercolour portrait of Dr Fraser by John Sowden

from John Sowden's notebooks:

"Although Dr Fraser was not a native for Bradford, he belonged to it not only by the length and usefulness of the career which he passed amongst its citizens, by virtue of a connection in a period which witnessed its commercial rise and the rise of its most conspicuous local families. He was born at Glasgow in 1820, and educated at Glasgow University, taking distinguished ranks in all classes. He attained the distinction of medallist in Latin, and took his degree with honour upon the completion of his curriculum. Among his fellow students were David Livingstone, Lord Kelvin and Reverend Dr Fielding(?).

In his 21st year Mr Fraser was appointed classical tutor at the old Airedale College, the principal being the Reverend Walter Scott. On Mr Scott’s retirement the office of Principal and Theological Tutor was offered to Mr Fraser and accepted. He shortly afterwards secured the degree of LLD from his university. He continued as principal until the erection of the new building at Heaton, whence he retired from the college. He was present at the laying of the foundation stone and offered a dedicatory prayer, but had no further connection with the institution.

He was fortunate enough to train a number of men of very considerable eminence. In November 1893 Dr Fraser completed 50 years of residence and work in Bradford, and the jubilee was celebrated by a large number of former students and friends. An illuminated address was presented to Dr Fraser and a portrait by Mr W Henderson was presented to the Yorkshire United College as a memento of his long and honourable connection which one of the institutions there represented.

He was president of the Mechanics’ Institute for many years and at his jubilee was presented with an address and album of portraits and a life member's ticket. He was a member and vice president of the Bradford School board from 1876 to 1882. He also took a keen interest in the Technical College, of which he was a governor until the college was taken over by the Bradford Corporation. He was also a governor of the Bradford Grammar School. He married Miss Broadbent of Ovenden and left one daughter. He died September 24, 1902 at the age of 82."

Year

1889

Creator

John Sowden

Image filename

sowden-34