Vale Jim Frecklington: Royal Coach Builder and a True Gentleman

A remarkable life

Growing up in central-western New South Wales with a love of horses and carriages, Jim eventually made his way to Britain, where he worked first with the Duke of Edinburgh’s horses at Windsor Castle and later at the Royal Mews, caring for Queen Elizabeth II’s ceremonial horses. It was there, surrounded by the great state carriages, that his childhood interest grew into a craft that would define much of his life. 

He went on to create the Australian State Coach, presented to Queen Elizabeth II as Australia’s official Bicentennial gift in 1988, followed by the Diamond Jubilee State Coach. The latter entered service at the State Opening of Parliament in 2014 and carried King Charles III and Queen Camilla to their coronation at Westminster Abbey in 2023. Today it remains part of the working collection at the Royal Mews. 

Those are remarkable achievements, but the finished coaches tell only part of Jim’s story.

Bringing old skills together

What always struck us about Jim was the way he pursued his craft and the value  he saw in skills that are sometimes overlooked in modern times.

Royal coachbuilding is far more than a single trade. It brings together engineering, metalwork, painting, gilding, woodwork, upholstery and a range of other highly specialised skills that are increasingly rare. Jim was like a conductor, bringing these different disciplines together in harmony to create an extraordinary work of art.

As Edcon Managing Director Hugh Edmunds remembers:

“There were few on the planet like Jim. His extraordinary work in his unique field was testament to his pursuit of lost arts and crafts. He was a touchstone for artisans and craftsmen who continue, in corners of the world, with timeless dedication to their own chosen passion. Jim was able to bring them all together around a passion of his own.”

A small part in something very special

We were privileged to play our own small part in Jim’s work.

Jim had been an Edcon customer for many years, using Edcon-supplied parts and steel extensively in the undercarriages of his coaches. While Edcon’s role was modest compared with the highly specialised work of many of the artisans, Jim never made it feel modest.

“We are not in the same league as many of the other contributors to his projects, but he always made us feel like we were doing something very special in our own small way.”

That generosity of spirit extended beyond the work itself.

“Jim was always as interested in our situation and progress as we were with his. I particularly remember him always asking after Dad when he was unwell. He was one of nature’s gentlemen.”

Our thoughts are with Jim’s family, friends and the craftspeople who worked alongside him.

Vale Jim Frecklington. You will be sorely missed.