William Fraser (bishop of St Andrews) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids William Fraser |
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| Bishop of St Andrews | |
The seal of Bishop William Fraser. The other side contains his arms, making this the earliest episcopal seal from the British Isles on which the arms are represented.
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| Church | Roman Catholic Church |
| Diocese | St Andrews |
| Appointed | 4 August 1279 |
| Reign ended | 20 August 1297 |
| Predecessor | William Wishart |
| Successor | William de Lamberton |
| Orders | |
| Consecration | 19 May 1280 by Pope Nicholas III |
| Personal details | |
| Died | 20 August 1297 France |
| Previous post | Dean of Glasgow |
William Fraser (died 1297) was an important leader in Scotland during the late 1200s. He held powerful positions in both the church and the government. He was the Bishop of St Andrews, a very important religious role. He also served as a Guardian of Scotland, helping to rule the country when there was no king.
Early Life and Church Role
Before becoming a bishop, William Fraser was a key figure for King Alexander III of Scotland. He worked as the King's Royal Chancellor. This meant he was in charge of the king's official papers and records. He was also a dean in Glasgow, which is a senior role in the church.
On August 4, 1279, William was chosen to be the Bishop of St Andrews. This was a very important job. The next year, Pope Nicholas III officially approved his appointment.
Leading Scotland as a Guardian
William Fraser was a major political leader in Scotland. This was especially true after King Alexander III died. The country faced a difficult time without a clear ruler.
In 1290, William was chosen as one of the six Guardians of Scotland. These six leaders managed Scotland until a new king could be found. They were like a temporary government. They ran the country until John Balliol became King of Scots.
Later Years and Death
Even after King John Balliol took the throne, William Fraser remained a top political figure. In 1295, King John sent William to France. His mission was to try and create an alliance with the King of the French. An alliance is like a special friendship or agreement between countries.
William stayed in France for the last two years of his life. He died there on August 20, 1297, in a place called Artuyl. He was buried in Paris, in a church belonging to the Dominican Order, also known as the "Preaching Friars."
However, his heart was brought back to Scotland. It was buried in the wall of the church in St Andrews. His successor, William de Lamberton, made sure this happened.
