In the 17th century, Sir James Hope (1614–1661) married Anne, daughter of Robert Foulis of Leadhills, and the mines subsequently passed to his descendants the Earls of Hopetoun.

Stirling was a noted mathematician and scientist who had lived in Venice and London, and was a member of the Royal Society.

[1] James Stirling proved adept at managing the Leadhills mines, despite his lack of practical experience.

[2] His paternalistic concern for worker's welfare was also noted, and had a long-lasting effect on the culture of the Leadhills mines.

[2] A single storey entrance lodge has been demolished, and the former stables are now derelict and listed on the Buildings at Risk Register for Scotland.