John Elliot entered the Royal Navy in 1745 and reached the rank of Admiral in 1799. He was Member of Parliament for Cockermouth, 1767-1768, and served as Governor of Newfoundland, 1786. Most of this material relates to his estate of Essenside in the parish of Ashkirk, Roxburghshire, and to his mining interests, especially the affairs of the White Water Mineral Company. In the family and general correspondence, there is material relating to his naval career, especially his Governorship of Newfoundland. Correspondence is of, and letters are addressed to, Admiral John Elliot, unless otherwise stated.