HAMILTON (formerly NISBET), John (1751-1804), of Pencaitland and Saltcoats, Haddington.

Hamilton owed his seat in Parliament mainly to Henry Dundas, his wife’s uncle, who gave him private and prior notice of the vacancy. William Nisbet wrote to Dundas, 11 May 1786:H. Furber, Hen. Dundas, 219-20. ‘I mentioned to you at Wimbledon that I was ready to produce the cash to bring my brother in Parliament (as this seemed what you wished for him) whenever you pointed out a place.’ Although Dundas withheld open support until he had sounded local opinion Hamilton was elected unopposed.

In Parliament he supported Administration on the Regency, 1788-9.

He died 25 Dec. 1804.