Among the photographers active in Newcastle in the early 20th century, William Fraser deserves a special place. William might be described as a “semi-professional” photographer, since his main job was as a cabinet-maker, working from the Newcastle suburb of Hamilton. The body of work he produced in both spheres was impressive, and numerous examples of his skilled craftsmanship survive.
William Fraser 
Britannia Fraser (nee Randall)
William’s parents were Charles Fraser (who had come from Scotland when he was seven) and Matilda (nee Pepper). The couple was living and working in Lindsay Street, Hamilton, when sixth child William was born in 1882. William trained as a cabinet-maker with Archibald Hay, and ultimately opened his own business. He married Britannia Randall at St Peters Church in Denison Street, Hamilton, in 1909, and the couple had four children.
As a cabinet-maker William produced all types of work, but made a speciality of ornate furnishings for churches. Examples of his work adorned dozens of churches across the Hunter Region, and much still survives – including in Newcastle’s Christ Church Cathedral.
William’s handiwork in Newcastle’s Baptist Tabernacle 
William at work in his later years
He also created numerous timber honour boards, including many during and after World War I to commemorate those who served and fell during the conflict.
William was an athlete too. He was a keen cyclist and gymnast.
Outside the Cathedral 
Supporting young gymnasts 
William on a bike
In the photographic field, William produced a huge body of work, mostly on glass plate negatives. As well as portraits and landscape work in the Hunter area, he created many “trick” photographic images and also stereoscopic views.
After his death in 1958 William left a substantial legacy of negatives were fortunately been lovingly preserved by his now-late grand-daughter Anne Hudson, who provided many images for our book, Images on Glass.
Greg, thank you for your continued promotion of our grandfather’s work.
One minor correction though, Britannia’s maiden name was Randall, not Randle.
Keep up the great work.
Hi Greg
After talking to cousin Ann, she pointed out that there is another minor error. William and Britannia were married at St Peter’s in Denison St, Hamilton, not Scots Kirk. I believe she mentioned to you that the book has the same error.
Apart from that, everything is super. 🙂 Great work!