John or Hans Hamilton (1535/6–1608), son of Archibald Hamilton of Raploch,[28] was the first Protestant vicar and exhorter of Dunlop Church. One of his sons, James Hamilton, was created Viscount Claneboye for his many services to James VI in establishing and maintaining Protestantism in Ireland; his son James was in turn created Earl Clanbrassil by Charles I. His five brothers also established estates in Ireland. A handsome mausoleum (NS 40486 49398) was constructed over their graves by James in 1641, when he was in his eighties, and this was so ornately painted and gilded in the Roman Catholic manner that it attracted the sobriquet of 'The Picture House'.[35] The flat tombstone of Hans Hamilton was originally on the floor, but was later removed and placed on the south wall.[36] It was neglected and vandalised even in 1699, and in 1734 was given much needed repairs. Around 1849 Colonel Mure of Caldwell had further repairs carried out.[37][38] The marble statues of Hans and his wife have been removed to a place of safety for their protection (2005).
Jean Hamilton, the daughter of Hans Hamilton, had a dowry of 5000 merks in 1613.[3]
