If there are some Houstons today with hot tempers that embroil them in rash and regretable conflicts, possibly they have inherited a streak of old Patrick Houston III. This can tankerous baron, who inherited the estate in 1542, was the most colorful character in the family during the 16th century.

He lived during one of the most turbulent and dangerous times in Scottish history. Coming into the barony in the year of the death of King James V, he lived through the struggles between religious factions, nations and sovereigns during the hectic and sad career of Mary, Queen of Sects. He took part in the recurring deadly conflicts between the supporters of Mary, usually Catholic, and the adherents of her son, James VI, largely Protestant. Sir Patrick held his firm grip on the Houstoun bar.ony during the exile, imprisonment and execution of Mary. He was a supporter of James VI during 38 years of the King’s reign.

King James conferred on Sir Patrick the honor of knight.hood. This must have been in appreciation of service rendered, for court records of the times cast some reflection upon his knightly chivalry.

As if there were not wars enough to fight in these times, the barons of the Renfrewshire area fell to fighting among themselves. Patrick and his family were engaged at various times in deadly feuds with neighbor barons. One of these feuds was with the Muirs of nearby Caldwell. There were killings on both sides, resulting in court trials for murder. In one of these clashes, Robert Muir was killed. Several of the Houstouns were charged with murder and one of them, Archibald, was convicted and beheaded.