In Dunedin's Southern Cemetery is one of many intriguing gravestones. Its inscription indicates a military history and, after some searching, it can be revealed.
John Hamilton, John M's father, was in the Donegal Militia when he fought against the Irish "rebels" in the Battle of New Ross in 1798. The Militia's virtual gallery has this to say about his actions: "During the battle of New Ross another NCO, Sergeant John Hamilton, showed such bravery and initiative that he, too, was granted a commission as an ensign. At New Ross the Donegals suffered eight men killed, wounded or missing. Sergeant Hamilton was engaged in an action against a rebel attack on the Main Guard, close to the Barrow river, during which he used two ship guns sited there, and ‘very badly mounted’, to stop the onslaught. His commission was due to the recommendation and persistence of his Colonel, Lord Clements, which saw Hamilton being granted an ensigncy in the 1st Regiment of Foot, the Royal Scots."
In November, 1883, John Hamilton appeared in court, charged with lunacy. He was remanded for medical examination and presumably was found to be mentally ill. He died in Seacliff Asylum in 1888.
Deaths
Hamilton. — On the 23rd October, at Seacliff, John McC. Hamilton, late lieutenant of Prince of Wales' regiment; aged 53. North of Ireland papers please copy. -Otago Daily Times, 26/10/1888.
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