Successors of Pitt (1711-25)
History of Madras
Chapter – 10
- Governor Addison, appointed after Pitt, was the brother of famous essayist Joseph Addison.
- Addison secured the Governorship through his brother’s political influence but died shortly after taking office, leaving no children, and his property reverted to Joseph Addison.
- After Addison’s death, William Fraser, the Senior Councillor who had previously quarrelled with Pitt, became Governor for 18 months. His rule was uneventful and he was replaced by Edward Harrison.
- Harrison’s rule lasted six years, during which he dealt with a revolt raised by the Deputy Governor of Port St. David and difficulties with Mussalman rulers.
- In Madras, Harrison’s tenure saw significant infrastructure improvements, including the demolition of the Inner Fort and the creation of the Fort Square.
- New structures were built for the Hospital, Mint, and enlarged barracks in the Fort.