A Quiet Moment in History
More than 250 years since a new coach was crafted for a British monarch, this royal coach is a masterpiece of artistry and symbolism. From timbers rich with history to intricate details honouring monarchs, every element speaks of legacy and devotion. At its heart stands the vision and lifelong dedication of master craftsman and Old Boy, William James (Jim) Frecklington MVO OAM (’68).
On 12 December 2025, The Scots College Community Chaplain, Reverend Conrad Nixon, blessed the royal coach. His words, spoken on that extraordinary evening and reproduced below, give tribute to creativity, faith and a King’s enduring story.
It’s a great honour to be here this evening. I’ve been privileged to visit this workshop a few times in recent years and observed glimpses of the progress of a remarkable project. To be here tonight, and to see the culmination of years of work, is a great joy and privilege.
It is not often that we get to see up close a special moment in history, but I believe that is what we are seeing here. My understanding is that it’s been more than 250 years since a new coach was made for a King in Britain – going back to the time of King George III. For more than a hundred years, the art of making these vehicles has been a most rare and precious thing.
Clearly, the quality of craftsmanship evident in this coach is astonishing. It is beautiful, beyond compare. And so much more than a means of transport – important though that is – this coach tells stories, many stories; captures history; speaks powerfully of the past and, I’m sure, will be an inspiration long into the future. Revealing the faces of a more than a thousand years of British monarchs; the flowers of the Commonwealth nations; beautiful timbers from Westminster Abbey; reminders of the men and women who served and made the ultimate sacrifice for King and Country. So many stories and symbols.
It is a most exquisite time capsule; it is a testament to the work of a dedicated team – of crystal makers and fabric makers; painters, blacksmiths and welders; those who have done casting, sculpting and upholstering; and others who have contributed to this beautiful work.And it is the precious legacy of a remarkable man – Jim Frecklington – for whom this has been an extraordinary labour of love, and perhaps the ‘crowning glory’ of a remarkable life’s work. This coach will be a national treasure and will stand as one of the most beautiful and significant items to leaves the shores of this country.
And so, it is my honour to propose this blessing, and to offer our prayers for health and prosperity for King Charles III, his family, and his heirs and successors. May this coach stand as a testament to God’s graciousness to us, the creativity and skill with which he has endowed human beings, and the passion and dedication of all who have contributed to this beautiful work. May it be a source of inspiration and blessing for generations to come.
