Signature of Toronto Mail Journalist, Historian, and the First Archivist of Ontario, Alexander Fraser

Alexander Fraser (1860-1936) was a journalist, historian, and lecturer who came to Canada on the recommendation of Sir Charles Tupper, to take up a position on the editorial staff of the Toronto Mail (later the Toronto Mail and Empire). He also served as editor of the Scottish Canadian, Massey's Illustrated, Presbyterian Review, and Fraser's Scottish Annual.

Alexander Fraser organized the Gaelic Society of Canada in 1887; was its first Secretary, and for many years its President. He was a key organizer of the 48th Highlanders of Toronto in 1891; the revival of Clan Fraser Society in 1894; and the Toronto Historical Society, of which he was President. He further served as President of the Sons of Scotland Benevolent Association for 12 years, and as President of St. Andrew's Society of Toronto, assisting in the placement of 426 families from the Highlands on Canadian Free Homesteads, without cost to the country or to settlers.

Colonel Fraser became the first Archivist of Ontario in 1903 and continued in that position until his retirement in 1935. He served as Honorary ADC to the Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario from 1914 through 1932 and was an Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel of the 127th York Rangers. He was one of the charter members of the Empire Club, a Past Master of St. John's Lodge, A.F. and A.M. and later an officer of the Grand Lodge. He was a notary public, a justice of the peace, and special representative for the Province of Ontario at the International Exposition at Havana, Cuba in 1924.

(Fraser background info sourced with permission from Clan Fraser Society of Canada.)

This item is an ink signature on card, 3 x 1-¾ inches, with minor age toning, discoloration and wear. Condition is Good.