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Description: | Bronze full-length statue of Fraser, dressed in long coat and gaiters, in the act of addressing a meeting. The statue surmounts an Aberdeen grey granite pedestal decorated with three rectangular bas-reliefs showing different aspects of Fraser's work in the diocese: Fraser the Churchman (conducting a confirmation); Fraser the Citizen (addressing men in a work-yard); and Fraser the Charitable Man (visiting a public institution). Additional Information: James Fraser (1818-1885) was born in Prestbury, Gloucestershire, the son of a retired India merchant. He was educated at Bridgnorth and Shrewsbury before entering Oxford University in 1836. He was ordained in 1846 becoming curate at Colderton, Wiltshire. Fraser continued his connection with Oxford University, he had been elected a fellow of Oriel College in 1840, becoming a chaplain and examiner. In 1860 he became rector of the small rural parish of Upton Norvet, Berkshire. His interest in elementary education resulted in him being appointed a commissioner in the government enquiry into foreign education systems. In 1870, following the death of James Prince Lee, Fraser was appointed as Manchester's second bishop. The Manchester diocese contained over two million people and 800 clergy. He was virtually unknown in the city but his straightforwardness, simplicity and sincerity soon struck a chord with Lancashire people. He gave up the bishop's out-of-town residence, Mauldeth Hall, moving closer to the centre to be with the people. A man of wide sympathies, his willingness to listen and to find common ground with those with whom he disagreed, were qualities which enabled him to move across both religious and social boundaries. All this was in contrast to his predecessor. Suspicion towards Fraser turned into admiration, and in the following years the country rector became the 'Bishop of All Denominations'. His death on 22 October 1885, brought trading to a halt on the Cotton Exchange. | Subjects: | Statue | Source: | Vads | Creator: | Sculptor: Woolner, Thomas | Identifier: | http://www.vads.ac.uk/large.php?uid=7560... | Go to resource |
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