Andrew Frazer (British Army officer) facts for kids

Andrew Frazer (sometimes spelled Fraser) was an important Scottish soldier and engineer. He lived in the 1700s and died in 1792. He was a high-ranking officer, a lieutenant-colonel, in the army's engineering team. He helped design and build strong forts, like Fort George in Scotland. He also designed St Andrew's Church in Edinburgh.

Life of Andrew Frazer

Andrew Frazer's father, George Frazer, worked for the government in Scotland. Andrew likely started his engineering work at Fort George. This was after a big rebellion in Scotland around 1745.

Early Military Career

Andrew officially joined the army as an engineer in 1759. His first rank was an ensign. By 1761, he became a sub-engineer with the rank of lieutenant.

Work in Dunkirk

In 1763, Andrew Frazer was sent to Dunkirk, a city in France. His job was to help watch the demolition (tearing down) of the city's defenses. This was part of a peace agreement between Britain and France.

He took over this important role in 1767. He stayed in Dunkirk until 1778, when Britain and France had another conflict. Andrew also acted like a diplomat, helping British citizens in Dunkirk.

He wrote detailed reports about Dunkirk. These reports included descriptions and plans of the city.

Rising Through the Ranks

Andrew Frazer continued to advance in his military career. He became an engineer in ordinary and a captain in 1772. Later, he was promoted to major in 1782 and then lieutenant-colonel in 1788.

Designing St Andrew's Church

In 1785, Andrew Frazer designed St Andrew's Church in Edinburgh. This shows his skill as an architect, not just a military engineer.

Family and Later Life

In 1773, Andrew married Charlotte Durnford. Her grandfather was Colonel Desmaretz, who Andrew had worked with. Andrew and Charlotte had a son named Sir Augustus Simon Frazer. He also became a famous soldier.

In 1783, Andrew Frazer helped start the Royal Society of Edinburgh. This was a group for important scientists and thinkers in Scotland. His address at the time was simply George Street in Edinburgh.

Andrew Frazer died on August 31, 1792. He was traveling to Geneva when he passed away.

Artistic Recognition

A portrait of Major Andrew Fraser (with the 's' spelling) exists. It is listed in a collection of engraved portraits.