Historical information

Commemorative trowel from Wesley Church St Kilda, 22 October 1857.
Alexander Fraser (1802-1888), businessman and politician. Fraser lived at St Kilda and in 1857 was elected to its first Municipal Council; in 1859 he became chairman and mayor in 1864-65. An active churchman, he held most important offices in the Wesleyan Church and for thirty years was treasurer of the supernumerary fund, which he helped Rev. Daniel Draper to found. Dour and pious, Fraser was conscientious in fulfilling his political duties. He presided at numerous meetings and laid countless foundation stones.

Physical description

Silver trowel with polished wooden handle. Trowel decorated around the edges and with an inscription.

Inscriptions & markings

Presented to Alexander Fraser Esq J.P. on laying the foundation stone of the Wesley Church St Kilda 22nd October 1857. Rev. J. Harding Superintendent of the church. Rev. D.J. Draper Chairman of the District. Rev. J.A. Manton President of the Conference.