HAMILTON, JOHN RONALD (1871-1940) was born at Forest Hill, Southland, the son of John Hamilton, and was educated at the school there. After farming at Forest Hill, Hokonui and Winton, he joined his brother (Adam Hamilton, M.P.) in the ownership of a threshing plant and later in the firm of Hamilton and Co., of Winton. When this business was sold to the Southland Farmers' Cooperative Association he became a life director. He was chairman of the Dominion dairy factory, a founder of the Winton Agricultural and Pastoral Association and a member of the Winton borough council. Hamilton twice contested the Awarua seat in Parliament (1911 and 1914), and in 1919 defeated Sir Joseph Ward (3100 votes to 2323). Losing the seat in 1922 to P. A. de la Perrelle, he regained it in 1925 and finally lost it in 1928. He married (1898) Catherine, daughter of James Hunter. Hamilton died on 12 Jan 1940.

Who's Who N.Z., 1924, 1932; Southland Times, 13 Jan 1940. Portrait: Parliament House.

Reference: Volume 2, page 274

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