William Fraser, of Fraserfield facts for kids

Hon. William Fraser, of Fraserfield (1691–1727) was a Scottish politician who supported the Jacobite cause. He was known for his skills in speaking and his short time as a Member of Parliament.

Early Life and Family

William Fraser was born on November 19, 1691. He was the second son of William Fraser, 12th Lord Saltoun and his wife Margaret. His mother's father was James Sharp, who was an Archbishop.

In 1713, William Fraser became a lawyer, also known as an advocate. In 1724, he married Lady Katherine Anne Erskine. She was the daughter of the 9th Earl of Buchan. They had one son together, named William Fraser, who was born in 1725.

Supporting the Jacobites

William Fraser was a supporter of the Jacobites. The Jacobites were people who wanted to bring back the Stuart family to the throne of Great Britain. They believed the Stuarts were the rightful rulers.

Fraser took part in the Jacobite rising of 1715. This was a rebellion that tried to put a Stuart king back on the throne. After the rebellion, he was later forgiven for his involvement.

In 1721, William Fraser bought a large piece of land called Balgownie. It was located near the city of Aberdeen. He renamed this estate "Fraserfield."

Political Career

In the 1722 general election, William Fraser was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP). An MP is a person elected to represent a group of people in the country's parliament. He represented the area known as Elgin Burghs.

However, there was a problem with this election. Two different people claimed to have won the seat. This had happened before in a previous election. In 1722, another politician named John Campbell challenged Fraser's election.

When the House of Commons discussed the issue, many expected Fraser to lose his seat. But William Fraser gave a very strong first speech in Parliament. His speech was so good that he gained enough support. Campbell's supporters decided not to push their challenge right away.

Instead, the matter was sent to a special committee. In January 1725, this committee decided that John Campbell should have the seat. So, William Fraser lost his position as an MP.

Later that year, in April, Fraser tried again to become an MP. He ran in a special election for Linlithgow Burghs. However, he did not win this election. His challenge against the results was also turned down.

William Fraser passed away on March 23, 1727.

Images for kids

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  Lady Katherine Anne Erskine (1697-1733), portrait by John Baptist de Medina