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The Fraser family originated in Scotland where they lived until their departure in the 1930's
Harry's father fought in the Great War also known as WWI. The war was violent and many were injured and died in the brutal conditions, one of those people included Harry's Uncle, who died in the trenches after getting malaria.
The Great War resulted in many casualties for Scotland, thus leading Harry's father to leave Scotland and go to Canada.
"The family had an almost PTSD from the war" -Harry Rose
Being farmers in Scotland for their whole lives the Fraser family became farmers in Nova Scotia, Canada when they arrived by boat in the 30's.
Harry Fraser completed his education at Hopewell High School in 1943. He started high school in 1932, but joined the Canadian Army as a mechanic while in high school.
Harry's stint in the Canadian Army spanned from 1936 to 1942, during which he put his high school education on pause. Tasked primarily as a mechanic, he fixed up all sorts of military vehicles ranging from cars to tanks and planes. Harry took a turn when World War II broke out in Europe; his role changed from routine maintenance to critical, life-saving tasks that demanded his attention for long hours. His contributions were vital, ensuring the safety of over 500 planes and tanks, playing a significant role in the war effort.
Despite not facing combat directly, the war left a mark on Harry's mental well-being, similar to the struggles of his father. The weight of others' stories and the visible losses around him contributed to some version of PTSD. Coping with these emotional challenges, Harry decided to relocate, seeking a fresh start and peace of mind after selflessly serving during a violent period in time. This move was not just about physical relocation but also an attempt to leave behind the memories of a time that offered little good to anyone.
Harry left Canada in the 1940s because of the lack of plumbing combined with the cold winters and extremely limited electricity. One of the largest reasons for most leaving Canada, including Harry, was the threat of polio spreading throughout the country.
Canadians have had a history of immigrating to the US. Ever since pre-revolutionary times, Canadians have been coming to the US whether that be for a different place to live or for the fur trade. In somewhat more recent years Canadians and Americans have been on good terms as the countries always have seemed to ally over wars. In the modern day, the countries still have good relations and many visit the other country for tourism or business.
Many Canadians in the past 100 years have come to America for various reasons anywhere from better living conditions to better economic opportunity.
Harry then came to Norwood, Massachusetts
He lived there with his wife, Laura M. (Boch) Fraser and his children Kathy L. Fraser-Hurley and Thomas F. Fraser
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