Frazer Fountain 1

This is the first of two Frazer drinking fountains donated to the city by John Frazer MLC, a wealthy businessman and philanthropist. The fountains are both made of fine Pyrmont sandstone and were installed in 1881 and 1884 respectively. While both fountains were designed by City Architect Thomas Sapsord and sculpted by Mittagong sculptor Lawrence Beveridge, they are very different in style.

 This fountain – the first – was designed in the Gothic style, and is set on a square base. Four column groups, which support the wide arches, arise from the corners. There is a crenelated spire surmounted by a lantern, and steps at the base of the fountain give access on each side to the area where the water basin formerly stood.

 The fountain is now located in Hyde Park South, opposite Sydney Grammar School. It was moved twice in the first half of the 20th century. The first relocation, in 1917, saw it fall victim to patriotic fervour, when it was removed to a position near the present Pool of Reflection to make way for the Emden Gun. During the second move, in 1934, the taps and drinking cups were replaced with a bubble fountain in keeping with changing attitudes towards health and hygiene.