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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Mr. George Fraser

page 371

Mr. George Fraser, the Founder of the firm, had been a prominent Aucklander for over a third of a century, was born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, in 1832. Educated in his native town, the qualified as a mechanical engineer, and when twenty years of age went to Glasgow to gain further experience. Two years later he came to Auckland in the barque “Cornubia,” in order to take the position of sub-manager of a flax mill at Matakana. This, however, lasted but two years, and 1856 found Mr. Fraser back in Auckland, working at his trade. For about five years he was engineer at Messrs. Thornton. Smith and Firth's flour mill, but was destined soon to enter upon a larger sphere of usefulness. Old Aucklanders remember with pride how rapidly the foundry in Mechanic's Bay developed into a huge concern, the names of Messrs. Fraser and Tinne becoming familiar to all classes. Since Mr. Tinne's retirement Mr. Fraser has conducted the business with the aid of his sons, and the successes which have been achieved in the flax industry are due in a large measure to Mr. Fraser's inventions. As a member of the Harbour Board, to which he was elected in 1884. Mr. Fraser did good service, but he was unable to continue long in the position as it was inconsistent with his connection with the Board in the capacity of contractor. During his term of office the graving dock question was discussed and settled, but in direct opposition to his views. He was in favour of a much larger dock, and the site of the present railway wharf was the position recommended by him. It is now fairly generally admitted that Mr. Fraser's suggestions merited more consideration than they received. Mr. Fraser is a Mason of many years' standing, and has been a member of the committee of the Auckland Technical School since its formation. Mrs. Fraser is a daughter of the late Mr. Alexander Davidson, of Glasgow, and their family consists of three daughters and seven sons. [As this sheet is going to press news comes of Mr. Fraser's death at Auckland on July 29, 1901.]

The Late Mr. G. Fraser.

The Late Mr. G. Fraser.