James Oliphant Fraser

James Oliphant Fraser (October 2, 1826 – February 14, 1904) was a businessman and political figure in Newfoundland. He represented Fortune Bay in the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly from 1878 to 1885.

Early life, business career, and politics

Fraser was born on October 2, 1826 in Saint John, New Brunswick as one of ten sons and eleven children of Presbyterian minister Donald Allan Fraser and Catherine (née McLean). The family moved to St. John's, Newfoundland in 1842 when Rev. Fraser took up his post as the colony's first Presbyterian minister. Initially finding employment with Rennie, Stewart and Co., Fraser established his own business in St. John's in 1846. He was a member of the Legislative Council of Newfoundland from 1864 to 1878. He served as chairman of the Board of Works from 1879 to 1882 and as surveyor general from 1882 to 1885. After he retired from politics, Fraser was Postmaster General from 1885 to 1902. He died in St. John's at the age of 77.

His son James Oliphant Fraser, Jr. also served in the Newfoundland assembly.