William Fraser, Aberdeen’s fallen firefighter, was remembered 113 years after his death in the line of duty. Jamie Wilde reports
William Fraser was a firefighter locally regarded as the “hero of Aberdeen”. Aged 28, he made the ultimate sacrifice while tackling a large fire at a warehouse in the city’s Adelphi Court on 2 March 1909. He left a nine-month-old daughter and wife.
His outstanding bravery has also left a lasting legacy in Aberdeen, which has now been duly remembered 113 years later.
Fraser’s funeral was reportedly attended by thousands of people – bringing the city to a standstill.
In the years that passed however, his story faced being forgotten entirely.
SOCIAL MEDIA APPEAL
But through the research of FBU member Ross Urquhart of Central Community fire station, Fraser’s legacy was once again brought to light.
Urquhart felt it was important that Fraser was remembered appropriately and went on to lead a successful social media appeal to trace the fallen firefighter’s relatives.
Now, through the FBU’s Red Plaque scheme, William Fraser can once again be remembered and reinstated as Aberdeen’s local hero.
A procession and plaque unveiling – the first in the north-ea24 April, with a beautifully preserved 1915 model North East Scottish Fire Heritage Club engine leading a large convoy of fire service vehicles.
Crowds looked on in awe as local firefighter and piper Jack Stewart heralded in the procession before a range of speakers paid tribute to Fraser, commemorating his sacrifice for the city of Aberdeen.
The words of William Niven, Fraser’s grandson, resonated most with those that gathered for the unveiling.
“It’s been 113 years since he passed in the line of duty and my mother never had the chance to know her father,” said Niven.
His thanks to Urquhart for “finding out more about my grandfather than I’ve ever known” was a particularly poignant moment.
The plaque unveiling, led by Niven and Aberdeen’s Lord Provost, Barney Crockett, was met with a great reception of applause by all in attendance.
Its bright red base is etched with the words “honour” and “bravery” – a st of Scotland – at the site where Fraser died in the line of duty took place in Aberdeen on Sunday fitting tribute to Aberdeen’s last serving firefighter killed in the line of duty whose story will now live on for generations to come.
For Niven, uncovering his grandfather’s story has been a revelation.
“It’s been 113 years since he passed in the line of duty and my mother never had the chance to know her father,” said Niven.
“There were no stories to relate back to – we didn’t even know where his grave was.
GOT THE FAMILY TALKING
“But now, with Ross’ research into my grandfather, it’s opened things up and got the family talking about it.”
Niven added that he was “very pleased” with the day’s events and hopes Fraser’s legacy can inspire future generations of firefighters.
“As far as I know, no others in the family have signed up to the fire service as yet. But I do hope this can inspire some younger people to join the ranks,” he said.
For Lord Provost Barney Crockett – a former firefighter himself – commemorating Fraser and the continued bravery of the fire and rescue service is something he felt was crucial for the city.
“I think it’s really important that we remember the great risks that our safety services take – in particular, our firefighters,” said Crockett.
‘IT MAKES MY HEART SWELL’
“To have this red plaque here in Aberdeen, it makes my heart swell.
“I’m very pleased to see it, to appreciate the work of our firefighters and also of their union.”
Chay Ewing, Aberdeen City’s senior local officer, also added that the qualities that Fraser displayed as a firefighter over 100 years ago remain prevalent today.
“In the early 1900s, William worked with horse drawn water pumps as a fireman,” said Ewing.
“Things are a lot more modernised now, but the backbone of wanting to do something good for the general public is definitely still there.
“I’m immensely proud to see this red plaque being unveiled today. It’s a great initiative organised by the Fire Brigades Union and it reminds us all of the commitment that firefighters put into their cities.”
