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Andrew Elliot
Papers, 1767-1787; bulk, 1775-1783

SC13349

Quantity: 7 boxes (2.25 cubic ft.); 1 extra-large folder
Access: Open for research.
Alternative Formats: Selected documents from this collection (identified in the guide) are also available on microfilm MA/FM,974.7103,E462 (3 reels)
Acquisition: Purchase: [Charles Alexander Carnegie], Earl of Southesk, 1953
Processed By: Fred Bassett, Senior Librarian, Manuscripts and Special Collections, August 2011 (original inventory done ca. 1953; previously revised April 2001)

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Biographical Note:

Andrew Elliot, a prominent official in the government of New York during the final years of British Colonial rule, was born November 1728 in Edinburgh, Scotland, the son of Gilbert Elliot. He arrived in Philadelphia about 1746 as an apprentice in a counting house and later established himself as a trader. In 1763 he was appointed collector of the port of New York and receiver general of New York. The following year he was appointed to the executive council of the Province of New York.

Throughout the American Revolution Elliot remained a Loyalist to the British Crown. Shortly after the Continental Army occupied New York City in the spring of 1776, he fled to Perth Amboy, New Jersey, for his safety. He returned to New York City by late-September 1776, by which time the Continental Army had been driven out and British re-occupation of the city was complete. The British Army occupied and governed the city under martial law until November 25, 1783, the date which became known as "Evacuation Day." During the time of occupation military leaders assumed control of the local government. This resulted in many problems between the military and the municipal authorities. Mayor David Mathews retained his title but had no authority.  Likewise, William Tryon had little authority as Governor of the Province of New York.

Meanwhile, Elliot resumed his position as customs collector, and on July 17, 1777, he was appointed by General Sir William Howe as the superintendent of all imports and exports of the port of New York. In May 1778 he was appointed superintendent general of the Department of Police. In March 1780 he was appointed lieutenant governor of the Province of New York under James Robertson, who had succeeded William Tryon. Elliot was appointed by General Sir Henry Clinton, the British commander, in December 1781, as one of his representatives to meet with George Washington's representatives, Henry Knox and Gouverneur Morris, regarding the exchange of prisoners. When Robertson returned to England in April 1783 Elliot became acting colonial governor of the Province of New York; he held the post until late-November 1783. As acting governor, he worked with British and American officials on matters related to the evacuation of British troops, government officials, and other loyalists from New York City.  The evacuation plan was largely drawn up and carried out under the direction of Sir Guy Carleton. Elliot left for Scotland in December 1783, where he remained until his death on May 25, 1797.

Scope and Contents Note:

The papers of Andrew Elliot provide a significant vein of material relative to the final years of British colonial rule in New York, particularly the occupation of New York City during the American Revolution.

Elliot's duties as an administrator of the custom house and the port of New York is documented in letter books, correspondence with British officials in London, lists of employees, memorandum on navigation acts, accounts of imports brought into New York, records related to licensing of shipmasters (skippers), and registry of ships docking at the port of New York. Also included are lists of vessels libeled and condemned, as well as correspondence regarding letters of marque and reprisal and prize distributions, and papers related to funding of the Royal Hospital for Seamen (Greenwich, England), for which Elliot served as agent.

These papers also include a number of documents related Elliot's tenure as superintendent of police in New York City from 1778 to 1783. The records include a series account statements listing the names of officers, payments they were due for wages and other expenses; and copies of reports detailing the work of magistrates that were submitted to the governor.

During the time of British occupation of New York City and environs, the ruling authorities were very much concerned about the loyalty of their subjects as suggested in a series of original signed and certified copies of loyalty oaths dated July 9, 1776, and taken in Kings, Queens, Richmond and Suffolk counties. There are also several enumerations (censuses) of the aforementioned counties that were taken to provide information about the lives and property of their inhabitants.  Other items of interest include a memorandum related to General Tryon's plans for enlisting loyalists for militia service and otherwise; and a draft of a report by Elliot relative to the settlement of loyalist claims in New York City.

The papers related to civil and military affairs of Governor William Tryon and Governor James Robertson concern a wide array of issues and activities. Included are copies of correspondence between Tryon and the Earl of Dartmouth detailing early efforts to suppress the rebellion in the American colonies chiefly by trade restrictions, a series of reports by John Graham to the Governor concerning the strength of "Rebels" fortifications and military strength in New York City and environs and on Long Island. These reports also include opinions and advice regarding a strategic plan to cut off New England from New York, and missions to Niagara and Detroit in effort to keep Indians attached to King's side.

These papers also detail the evacuation of British troops and authorities from New York City after General Cornwallis's surrendered to General Washington and the Continental Army at Yorktown, Virginia, in October 1781.  The process took over two years and was finally completed on November 25, 1783. Elliot's role is documented in correspondence, memoranda, and financial records relative to settling and closing out accounts. Elliot was also involved in assisting loyalists who sought relocation in Canada.

Lastly, these papers include a number of documents related to personal concerns and observations of Elliot. Some items relate to closing out his property in New York and preparations for his return to Britain. It appears that Elliot was seeking restitution for property he had to relinquish or some other means of financial security to help him re-settle in Britain. The peace treaty negotiations were of great interest to Elliot as seen in memoranda he had drafted on the topic. After he returned to Britain he prepared a document on the provisions of the United States Constitution as adopted September 17, 1787.

Related Collections and Resources:

This repository also holds a number of other manuscript and archival collections relative to loyalist activities and experiences during the American Revolution: John Peters Loyalist Claim Papers, 1777-1787; Emmerich's Chasseurs, Certificates of Enlishment and Oaths of Fidelity, 1778-1779; and Philip Skene Papers.

Additional collections as well as several items from these papers are listed in A Guide to Revolutionary War Manuscripts in the New York State Library, Stefan Bielinski, ed. (Albany, N.Y.: New York State American Bicentennial Commission, 1979).

Organization and Arrangement Note:

The papers of Andrew Elliot have been organized into eight series:

  1. New York Custom House and Port Administration – Records, 1767-1783 (including Royal Hospital for Seamen) – Boxes 1-3
  2. Superintendent General of Police in New York City – Records, 1778-1783 – Box 3
  3. Loyalists – Military Service and Civilian Assistance – Papers, 1776-1779 – Box 4
  4. Civil and Military Affairs Related to Governors Tryon and Robertson – Papers, 1775-1783 – Box 5
  5. Evacuation of British Authorities and Troops – Papers, 1782-1783 – Box 6
  6. Judicial Authority, 1782 – Box 6
  7. Personal Papers and Records, 1768-1787 – Box 6
  8. Letter and Memorandum books, 1776-1783 – Box 7
  9. Broadsides, 1778-1780 – EL folder

Papers and documents are generally organized chronologically within each series.  Folders contain one item unless indicated otherwise.


Box and Folder List:

Box Folder Contents


New York Custom House and Port Administration – Records, 1767-1783
1 1 Memorandum, [1767 or later]: "Abridgements of an act repealing certain duties in British colonies and plantations, 1766-1767, and "Abridgement of an act for opening and establishing certain ports, 1766-1767. First part concerns duties on coffee, sugar, and silk; the second part concerns the Navigation acts. (Available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462)
1 2 Account of imports into New York, 1770-1775. Provides an annual summary of a wide array of goods measured by weight or quantity.
1 3 Account (debit-credit), Francis Rush Clarke with Wilkinson and Gordon, 1772.
1 4 Custom House Correspondence 1773-1777. (3 items)
  1. Copies of letters of Andrew Elliot and Lambert Moore, New York Custom House, to William Mellich, Commissioner of Customs at London, April 4 and 5, 1773 with reply, May 27, 1773.
  2. General letter from Commissioners of Customs at Halifax to collectors and Comptrollers of His Majesty's Customs at New York, L.S. Benjamin  Hallowell, Henry Hulton, Charles Carson, Halifax, [N.S.], 26 April 1776.
  3. Copy of letter from Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury, London, to Andrew Elliot, Collector of Customs at New York, Whitehall Treasury Chambers, 27 January 1777.
1 5 Letter (draft by Elliot): [Sir Henry Clinton] to Lord [George] Germain, [1776?], regarding the requisites of Elliot's position at the custom house and the collection of duties.
1 6 [Paper Book] No. 3. "A short Detail of Conduct of the Collector of New York from December 1774 to March 1776 when the Intercourse Act took place. Commencing with the Account of the Seizure of Arms, etc. Published in the Newspapers at New York the 27th December 1774" (Copy 1: 1 v. 11 leaves;
Copy 2: 1 v. 14 leaves; some variation in title but content of both copies is the same) (See also box 7, Letter book "A", p. 18-32; available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462)
1 7
  1. [Paper Book] No. 1. "The Receiver General and Collectors [sic] Correspondence with the Treasury and Commissioners of the American Customs from March 1776 to October 1783 together with his Accounts Current relating to each, etc."; D. [Andrew Elliot], [1783]. (1 v.; 15 p.).
  2. [Paper Book] No. 2. "The Collector's Correspondence with the Commissioners of the American Customs from March 1776 to October 1783 together with his Final Account Current enclosed in the Collector and Comptroller's Letter of October 18, 1783"; D.[Andrew Elliot], [1783]. (1 v.; 10 p.). An abridgement of previous volume; both books discuss the 1776 Custom House fire. (They are both available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462)
1 8 Return of persons employed in the Department of the Superintendent of Imports and Exports, [after July 1777]; Andrew Elliot appointed Superintendent of Imports and Exports, 17 July 1777. (Also available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462)
1 9 "A list of vessels libelled [sic] and condemned in the Court of Vice Admiralty for the province of New York from the 13th of October 1777 to the 12th January 1780." List of over 800 vessels with the name and type of vessel, and its master or owner. (1 v. 28 p.) (Also available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462)
1 10-13 (note) British Admiralty Office. Shipmaster's licenses, dockets, bills of lading, 1777-1780.  Licenses from the Lord of Admiralty were issued to captains of stated vessels for specified period time in which the said vessel was permitted passage from the ports of Great Britain and possessions to the Port of New York or any other port in North America garrisoned by British Troops.
1 10 British Admiralty Office. Licenses and bills of lading, April-June, 1777. Documents indicate the vessels and cargo embarked from ports in England, Scotland, and Ireland. D.S. [Viscount, Henry Temple] Palmerston, [Viscount, William Benton] Lisburne, [John Montagu, Earl of] Sandwich, and H. Pallifer. (7 items)
  1. Ship Lord Hume, April 17, 1777
  2. Ship Monique, April 18, 1777
  3. Ship Lilly, July 15, 1777
  4. Ship Elizabeth, July 17, 1777
  5. Ship Loyal Subject, July 19, 1777
  6. Ship Ann, July 22, 1777
  7. Ship Philippa, May 1, 1777 (copy)
1 11 British Admiralty Office. Licenses and bills of lading, June-August 1777. Documents indicate ships and cargo originated from ports at Saint Christopher, East Florida (Saint Augustine), and Grenada. (8 items)
  1. Sloop Fincastle, June 10, 1777
  2. Brigantine Lord Howe, June 30, 1777
  3. Brigantine Henry William Nelson, June 10, 1777
  4. Brigantine Friendship, August 1, 1777
  5. Brigantine Fanny, July 6, 1777
  6. Schooner Sally, August 12, 1777
  7. Brigantine Dunvegan, August 29, 1777
  8. Brigantine Robert John Wallace, October 20, 1777
1 12 British Admiralty Office. Licenses and bills of lading issued by the commander in chief of British vessels to be employed in North America, 1777-1780. D.S. Sir William Howe, Sir George Collier, William Hotham, and Mariot Arbuthot. (15 items)
  1. Sloop Sachen, June 20, 1777
  2. Schooner Adventure, June 10, 1777
  3. Brigantine Bella, July 16, 1777
  4. Sloop Betsey, April 27, 1778
  5. Sloop Ambuscade, May 8, 1777
  6. Schooner James, September 9, 1777
  7. Brigantine Alexander, April 17, 1779
  8. Brigantine Speedwell, June 12, 1779
  9. Brigantine Fame, June 25, 1779
  10. Ship Commerce, November 5, 1779
  11. Brigantine Speedwell, November 23, 1779
  12. Brigantine Nancy, December 3, 1779
  13. Brigantine Richard Goodshall, December 13, 1777
  14. Brigantine Speedwell, March 14, 1779
1 13 British Admiralty Office. Licenses and bills of lading issued by the commander in chief of British vessels to be employed in North America, 1779.  D.S. James Gambier, Rear Admiral. (12 items)
  1. Brigantine Speedwell, November 20, 1778
  2. Schooner Apollo, November 26, 1778
  3. Brigantine Diana, January 5, 1779 w/2 enclosed certificates
  4. Sloop Swallow, January 10, 1779
  5. Sloop Maria, January 29, 1779
  6. Ship Patty, March 6, 1779
  7. Sloop Swallow, March 11, 1779
  8. Sloop William & John, March 13, 1779
  9. Ship Lilly, April 2, 1779
  10. Schooner Apollo, April 3, 1779
  11. Sloop Maria, April 3, 1779 (2 copies)
1 14 Documents relative to Salt trade during War of Revolution, 1777-1781. (8 items)
  1. Letter (copy): Grey Cooper to Sir John Wrotherly, Treasury Chambers, [Whitehall], April 10, 1781; discusses transporting salt from New York to Newfoundland fisheries.
  2. Letter: Hugh Wallace to Andrew Elliot, A.L.S.,New York, November 22, 1781; concerns salt shipments.
  3. Return of salt exported by permission from Superintendent's Office, July 17, 1777 to October 1, 1781; D.S. Andrew Elliot, New York October 1, 1781; quantities measured in bushels.
  4. Draft copies of the return (account) of salt exported by permission from Superintendent's Office, July 17, 1777 to October 1, 1781; A.D. Andrew Elliot, [1781]. (2 items)
  5. Notes and drafts of documents related to salt trade, [1781]. (3 items)
1 15 Documents from the Commissioners to Restore Order in the Colonies (Carlisle Commission) relative to lifting certain exportation restriction at the Port of New York, and providing instructions to Andrew Elliot as Superintendent of the Port of New York, 1778. Most documents were compiled by Adam Ferguson, secretary to commissioners. (8 items)
  1. Proclamation of Earl of Carlisle [Frederick Howard], Sir Henry Clinton, and William Eden, His Majesty's Commissioners, relative to continuing the office of Superintendent, D.S. September 26, 1778; printed in Almon's Remembrancer, No. 44 (1779), p. 126, in which "26" is omitted from date.
  2. Memorandum: drafts of a form of permit and form of license, [1778]
  3. Memorandum to Andrew Elliot instructing him to circulate copies of the proclamation and manifesto of the commissioners, October 5, 1778.
  4. Letter advising of the discontinuance of the embargo of the Port of New York; L.S. Earl of Carlisle, William Eden, and George Johnstone, New York, August 27, 1778.
  5. Letter concerning shipping regulations, L.S. Earl of Carlisle, William Eden, and George Johnstone, New York, August 30, 1778.
  6. Letter ordering Elliot to comply with regulations, L.S. Earl of Carlisle, William Eden, and George Johnstone, New York, September 30, 1778.
  7. Letter notifies Elliot that the Carlisle is about depart for England, and asked if there is any further business to consider before leaving; L.S. Adam Ferguson, New York, November 9, 1778.
  8. Letter requesting import price variations for the previous twelve months, L.S. Adam Ferguson, New York, November 14, 1778.
1 16 [Paper Book] No. 4. "The Correspondence of Andrew Elliot, Esq. of New York with the Treasury, etc. together with Law Opinions furnished to him by the Treasury and by the Secretary of the American Customs. Also the Memorial of the Merchants of New York to Sir Henry Clinton with his answer thereto, 1778-1781." D.[Andrew Elliot], [1783]. (1 v.; 57 p.) Discusses problems raised by passage of Prohibitory Act and an act concerning captured prizes; Sir Henry Clinton's answer regarding the memorial was addressed to Isaac Low, President of the Chamber of Commerce.
1 17 Observations on a mercantile plan when the colonies return to allegiance to British Crown, [1778?] (incomplete)
1 18 Commissions issued by Great Britain Admiralty Office authorizing Governor Tryon to issue letters of marque and reprisal for seizing vessels deemed to be hostile to His Majesty's troop, 1778-1779. (4 items)
  1. American vessels: D.S. [John Montagu, Earl of] Sandwich, Charles Spencer, and [Viscount, William Benton] Lisburne, June 4, 1778.
  2. French vessels: D.S. [John Montagu, Earl of] Sandwich, [Viscount, William] Lisburne, and Henry Penton, August 15, 1778. (2 copies)
  3. Spanish vessels: D.S. [John Montagu, Earl of] Sandwich, Henry Penton, and Lord [Frederick] North, June 24, 1779.
1 19 Printed copies commissions issued by Great Britain Admiralty Office authorizing Governor Tryon to issue letters of marque and reprisal for seizing French and Spanish vessels, 1778-1779. (6 items)
1 20 Orders of the British Admiralty Office to commanders of privateers and merchant ships operating with letters of marque not to detain any British seamen, D.S. [John Montagu, Earl of] Sandwich, [Viscount] Lisburne, H. Pallifer, and Philip Stephens, November 29, 1778. (2 items)
1 21 Letter: Philip Stephens to Gov. William Tryon, Admiralty Office, [Whitehall], June 4, 1778. Authorizes commissioning of merchant and private vessels for war service.
1 22 Prize distribution to officers and men of Galatea and Nautilus, 1778.
1 23 Papers relative to the sailing of Brigantine Swallow from the Port of Bermuda to Great Britain, and calling at New York enroute, 1780.  Documents indicate consist of the cargo on board was sugar. (13 items)
  1. Letter of William Shedden to the Collector and Comptroller of the Port of Bermuda, D.S., Bermuda, July 12, 1780.
  2. Letter of William Shedden to Andrew Elliot, Superintendent of the Port of New York, A.D.S. Copeland Stiles, Bermuda, July 12, 1780.
  3. License to take on board Dr. Thomas Irving as a passenger D.S. George James Bruere, Bermuda, July 12, 1780.
  4. License to take on board named members of the crew on Brigantine Swallow, D.S. George James Bruere, July13, 1780;  a number of sailors listed are identified as "Negro"
  5. License to Samuel Rankin as master or commodore of Brigantine Swallow, George James Bruere, Bermuda, July 13, 1780.
  6. Bill of lading and permits, July 13, 1780. (3 items)
  7. Memorandum of Shedden & Goodrich, merchants of the City of New York with certification from Isaac Low and Andrew Elliot, D.S. New York, August 3, 1780.
  8. Copies of Memorandum of Sheddon & Goodrich to William Shedden, New York, September 4, 1780. (2 items)
  9. Copy of memorandum from Superintendent of the Port of New York to Thomas Smith, Collector of Customs at Bermuda, September 8, 1780.
  10. Certification of the landing of Brigantine Swallow at the Port of New York, September 8, 1780.
1 24 Letters, invoices, bills of lading, etc. of Stephen Harris, relative to the shipment of grain and meat from Cork, Ireland, 1780. (9 items)
  1. Letter of Stephen Harris, Cork, [Ireland], March 24, 1781.
  2. Invoice for wheat, Lancaster, March 16, 1781.
  3. Invoice for wheat, Stephen Harris to John Jappie, Cork, [Ireland], March 20, 1781.
  4. Receipts, March 23 and March 25, 1781. (2 items)
  5. Bills of Lading for shipping wheat from Cork, [Ireland], to New York, March 24, 1781. (4 items)
1 25 Documents relative to the shipment of French Wine from Portsmouth, England to New York, 1780-1781. (3 items + cover)
  1. Certificate of the landing of Ship Juliana at the Port of New York, May 14, 1781; Samuel Williams, master.
  2. License of Ship Juliana, Samuel Williams, master, Portsmouth, [England], October 9, 1780; bill of lading on verso.
  3. License of Ship Raymond Hall, James Butler, master, Portsmouth, [England], October 9, 1780; bill of lading on verso.
2 1 Court martial sentence in which fines were levied against David Black for illegal maritime trade, D.S. James Green, New York, August 13, 1779.
2 2 Petition to allow trade between British ports and those colonies "under the protection of His Majesty's Government" relative to acts of parliament that have banned all trade with North American Colonies during the "Rebellion", unsigned draft, [1779?]
2 3 Letters and invoices from John MacLean to Andrew Elliot regarding permission to re-export goods on behalf of Samuel Martin of Whitehaven, February-May 1779. (7 items)
  1. A.L.S.: John MacLean, New York, February 5, 1779; request re-export of goods to Bermuda.
  2. A.L.S.: John MacLean, New York, March 8, 1779; seeks permission to ship goods to Quebec.
  3. A.L.S.: John MacLean, New York, May 22, 1779; seeks permission to ship goods to Great Britain.
  4. A.L.S.: John MacLean, New York, May 26, 1779; acknowledges Elliot's permission to ship goods to Quebec.
  5. L.S. (Copy): William Eden to MacLean, New York, October 25, 1778; concerns advisory of Elliot that goods could not be shipped to Bermuda, but instead to Florida or the West Indies.
  6. Invoices for goods shipped to Quebec on the account of Samuel Martin, [1779?] (2 undated items)
2 4 [Paper Book] No. 6. "Correspondence with the Treasury and Cashier of American customs relating to duties from agents for prize goods in virtue of an order from the Treasury of the 8th April 1779, together with the accounts of Reception, the Accounts Current furnished to the Treasury with the remittances and a general account current of the whole," 1779-1783; D.[Andrew Elliot], [1783]. (1 v.; 32 p.) (Also available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462)
2 5 Documents with instructions as to the placement and type of signal flags to be used in case a vessel comes under attack according to mode of attack and whether it be day or night, [1780?] (2 items)
2 6 Memorandum of Andrew Elliot to [Hugh] Wallace concerning the receipt of tax revenues from collection agents, Superintendents Office, [New York], January 29, 1780.
2 7 Warrant of the Lords of the Treasury to the Commissioners of His Majesty's customs to clear vessels with merchandize direct to New York, D.S. (Copy), C.W. Cornwall, [Lord Frederick] North, and [Lord William Lyttleton] Westcote, Bristol, [England], April 18, 1780.
2 8 Account: Prize distribution from ship Medea, New York, May 1, 1781.
2 9 Letters and reports relative to insurrection (mutiny) onboard Ship London, Quebec, October-November 1781. (4 items)
  1. Deposition regarding the incident, D.S., Thomas Kelley, October 13, 1781; certified by Charles Parson and several witnesses.
  2. Letter of John Moak to Frederick Haldimand, A.L.S.(copy), Quebec, November 15, 1781; Notifies Haldimand the case of the alleged mutiny on the ship London has been examined and concluded no court in Quebec has jurisdiction.
  3. Depositions of the incident by Charles Parson and Thomas Kelley certified by Frederick Haldimand, D.S. [Quebec], November 15, 1781.
  4. Letter of Frederick Haldimand to James Robertson, A.L.S. (copy). Quebec, November 16, 1781; accompanied the deposition (previous item) in which he says that New York has jurisdiction over the case.
2 10
  1. Copies of two proclamations regarding imports and exports and a summary of Sir Henry Clinton's "plan" concerning trade at New York, D.Andrew Elliot to Sir Guy Carleton, New York, May 29, 1782. (See also copy in Letter book C, p. 63, in Box 7)
  2. "Sketch of the plan adopted by Sir Henry Clinton for the security and peace of New York," A.D. (draft), [Andrew Elliot, 1781].
2 11 Draft of a letter concerning tobacco trade, A.L. (draft), [Andrew Elliot], [New York], October 30, 1782.
2 12 Draft of a letter of Andrew Elliot to Sir Henry Clinton, A.L. (draft), [New York], May 10, 1782. Expresses appreciation of Clinton's confidence in his conduct in carrying out Clinton's orders "for securing the Public Good [and] supporting the mercantile interest."
2 13 Manifests of cargo taken on board certain ships with oaths indicating that "Negroes" were not taken aboard said vessels from the Port of New York, 1783. (6 items + cover)
  1. Brigantine Knyphausen, D.S. John Myer, New York, May 24, 1783.
  2. Schooner Premis, D.S., John Ross, New York, August 1783.
  3. Schooner Elizabeth, D.S., Neil McHenry, New York, September 4, 1783.
  4. Brigantine Polly, D.S., William Radon, New York, September 22, 1783.
  5. Brigantine Nestor, D.S., John McIvers, New York, October 24, 1783.
  6. Sloop Yacht, D.S., Andrew Campbell, New York, November 15, 1783.
2 14 Memorandum of the Superintendent of the Port of New York relative to orders received from the Commander in Chief [Sir Guy Carleton] in regards to trade, L.S., Andrew Eliot, New York, April 17, 1783; transmits instructions regarding American and foreign vessels entering the port of New York.
2 15 Memorandum granting approval of  an unidentifiable ship's passport which authorizes it to land any American port, A.D., [Andrew Elliot], [New York], June 9, 1783.
2 16 Memorandum on the Nantucket Mission and Mr. Geyer's memorial, A.D. [Andrew Elliot], [New York], [n.d.]; contains remarks on Nantucket whaling and comments on Nantucket mission.
2 (17-19) Register books, 1783 (4 vol.); registry of sailing vessels calling at New York.
2 17
  1. Register book "D"; record nos. 595-606, August 26 – September 3. 1783. (1 v.: 12 leaves)
  2. Register book "E"; record nos. 607-640, September 3 – September 25, 1783. (1 v.; 36 leaves)
2 18 Register book "F"; record nos. 641-687, September 25 – October 29, 1783. (1 v.; 48 leaves)
2 19 Register book "G"; record nos. 688-720, October 29 – November 19, 1783. (1 v.; 48 leaves)
2 20 Newspaper clippings relative to trade and commerce, ca. 1778. (8 items – originally found with broadsides) Broadsides transferred to Folder EL-1 (see list below)
2 21 Trade laws passed by Fourteenth Parliament, Sessions 2, 3, 5 and 6, 1774-1779. Printed, London 1776-1780. (3 items)
2 22 Trade laws passed by Fourteenth Parliament, Sessions 2, 3, 5 and 6, 1774-1779. Printed, London 1776-1780. (cont.) (7 items)
2 23 London price current, January 1, 1779. Printed. Includes "Part of the Prize goods in London and the out posts"


Royal Hospital for Seamen, Greenwich, England – Papers, 1779-1781
3 1-1a Deputation from the Royal Hospital for Seamen, Greenwich, D.S. Alexander Hood, October 29, 1779; Andrew Elliot is authorized to receive forfeited and unclaimed share of prize and bounty money on behalf of the hospital. (Parchment, 2 copies, folded)
3 2 Royal Hospital for Seamen, Greenwich. Account of the prize money collected by Elliot, agent at New York, October 20, 1781; Contains names of vessels captured, date of capture, by whom, when advertised for payment, net proceeds classes unpaid, sums due to each class, and whole balance due.
3 3 Royal Hospital for Seamen, Greenwich. John Moore to Elliot, A.L.S. Norwich, November 12, 1783. Answers Mr. Hulton's objection to kind of money in which the hospital dues from the Custom House are paid. Matters complicated by loss of Custom House books and papers in September 1776 fire. (Also available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462)


Superintendent General of Police in New York City – Records, 1778-1783
3 4 Quarterly accounts of pay due to the Superintendent General of Police and officers, and disbursements (expenses) the police department in New York City, 1778-1783. The names of officers are listed on the accounts. (24 items  + cover)
3 5 [Paper Book] No. 5. "Copy of the Report of the Magistrates of Police, made in compliance with His Excellency Governor Robertson's letter of the 29th of November 1781, in which was enclosed His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton's letter of the 28th of that month [not here] with George Folliot's Memorial [not here] to their Excellencies His Majesty's Commissioners" D.[Andrew Elliot], New York, [1781]. (1 v.; 16 p.); accompanied by a rough draft of the report, A.D. [Andrew Elliot], New York, [1781]. (1 item; 16 p.) (Copy also in box 7 – Memorandums p. 1-39)
3 6 Final hand-over accounts and memorandum of Elliot as Superintendent General of Police in New York City, 1782-1783. (19 items + cover)
  1. Copy of an order to Elliot, Superintendent of Police to surrender receipts, D.S., A.P. Durant, New York, November 14, 1782.
  2. Accounts with James Robertson for purchase of copies of the Royal American Gazette, November-December 1782 and January-March 1783. (2 items)
  3. Accounts with James Rivington for purchase of paper, ink, and printing jobs, November 1782 – March 1783. (4 items)
  4. Accounts for purchasing newspapers from Hugh Gaine. (2 items)
  5. Accounts with others for maintenance and repair work, and sundry goods and services. (8 items)
  6. Drafts of accounts summarizing pay and disbursements of police officers and pay due for port officers' sundries. (2 items)
3 7 Schedule of return of memorials (memoranda) sent to Police in consequence of General Orders, February 18, 1783. Endorsed: "Copy of the Letter and Return made to M. Morgan the Secretary to Sir Guy Carleton respecting the Derelict House." Claims, with settlements made, of Peter Clopper, Daniel Winter, Phoebe Halsted, John Stevens, Elizabeth Ritchie, Theo. Bartow. Remarks of Police on claim of Elizabeth Ritchie, residence Connecticut: "Her husband being gone out with the Rebels, died without the Lines, the House Rented by the Vestry as a Derelict House." Daniel Winter's House also "rented by the Vestry as a Derelict House."
3 8 Letter of Oliver De Lancey to Andrew Elliot, Superintendent General of Police and Port, requesting rosters of officers and employees, the wages they receive and place of duty, L.S., Headquarters, [New York], November 19, 1782.
3 9 Summary accounts related to administrative positions held by Andrew Elliot Andrew Elliot, 1782-1783. (found with final handover accounts – see Box 3 Folder 6)
  1. List of officers whose salaries is to be paid of the license fund, [1780]; position title and date of appointment is indicated for each individual as well as rate of pay.
  2. Summary account pay due to the Superintendent General of Police and officers, and disbursements (expenses) the police department in New York City, May 4, 1778-November 1, 1782.
  3. Accounts of fees received in the Prerogative Office of the Province of New York, for affixing the seal of said office for use of Andrew Elliot, Lieutenant Governor, September 1-October 31, 1783, D.S. Samuel Bayard Jr., New York, November 4, 1783.
3 10
  • Order of Lt. Gen, James Robertson to Andrew Elliot requesting pay for inspectors of boats: John and Richard Hill at Brooklyn and William Day at North River, D.S., New York, October 18, 1782.
  • Certificate of William Day's employment as inspector of small craft goods, New York, November 6. 1782.


Loyalists – Military Service and Civilian Assistance – Papers, 1776-1779
4 1 Memorandum of Gov. William Tryon to Sir Henry Clinton regarding a plan for associated (non-military) loyalist service  to help suppress the rebellion: "There being many hundred Loyalists within the British Line...who will not enlist themselves as Soldiers...nevertheless will to take up arms to contribute their aid to the suppression of the Rebellion," D.S. New York, July 2. 1779.
4 2 Summary of an enumeration for Militia service in New York Province;  no names are listed, but provides information on the number of dwelling houses in New York City, number of inhabitants over the age of 14,  relative to gender and race, A.N., [Andrew Elliot], [ca. 1778-1779].
4 3 Muster rolls and other papers relative to raising troops in Kings County, 1777. (11 items)
  1. Letter (copy) of Col. William Axtell to Jeremy Vanderbilt, Flatbush, August 24, 1777; orders an enumeration of loyalist troops and ordnance in Kings County.
  2. Copy of the oath to be taken by officers of loyalist militia companies raised in Kings County; D.S. William Axtell, Flatbush, June 3, 1777.
  3. Return of loyal and doubtful men in the Kings County Regiment of Militia under the command of Col. Axtell, August 27, 1777; summary of the muster rolls returned by captains of militia companies; muster rolls lists the names of individuals along with an inventory of guns, swords, cartouche boxes, powder, and ball.
  4. Return of Capt. Thomas Horsefield, Brooklyn Western division, August 27, 1777.
  5. Return of Capt. Adrian Van Brunt, New Utrecht, August 25, 1777.
  6. Return of Capt. Nicholas Schenck, Flat Lands, August 25, 1777.
  7. Return of Capt. Petrus Lott, Bushwick. August 25, 1777.
  8. Return of Capt. Abraham Remsen, North Brooklyn, August 26, 1777.
  9. Return of Capt. [Richard?] Stillwell, Gravesend, August 26. 1777.
  10. Return of Capt. Hendrick Vander Veer, Flatbush, August 26, 1777.
  11. Return of Capt. [Remsen?] Cowenhoven, August 27, 1777. (Cavalry)
4 4 Documents relative to the oath and declaration taken and subscribed to by the officers of the Kings County Militia before the Honorable William Axtell, 1777. (4 items)
  1. "Declaration against Popery," October 16, 1777; parchment document with list of signatories.
  2. Text of the "State Oaths" and "Declaration against Popery" with Memorandum of William Axtell, October 16, 1777.
  3. Letter of Col. William Axtell to Gov. [William] Tryon, L.S., [Flatbush?], October 17, 1777.
  4. Cover note
4 5 Accounts of the number of cords of wood furnished by the inhabitants of Kings County for the militia, 1779. (3 items)
  1. Summary account of wood received from each town or district, November 1779.
  2. List of names of persons of New Utrecht and Brooklyn, and the amount of wood furnished to Barrack Master General, D.S. William Axtell, Kings [County] Militia, [November, 1779].
  3.  List of names of persons of New Utrecht and Brooklyn, and the amount of wood furnished to Quartermaster General.  D.S. William Axtell, Kings [County] Militia, [November, 1779].
4 6 Note: "A list of superannuated persons in western division of the Township of Brooklyn" [1779?]
4 7 Memorandum: Plan for better cultivation of Long Island to relieve the effects of the grain shortage; D.S. John Richer, Smith Street, January 7, 1779.
4 8 Memorandum relative to settlement of claims of Loyalists in New York City by granting them the use of lots vacated by patriots when forced to flee, A.D. (draft), Andrew Elliot, [1778?]  
4 9 Memorandum: "Observations to the Commandant"; concerns financing the almshouse and providing relief for widows, orphans, refugees, and other indigents residing in New York City, [ca. 1779].
4 10 Return of arms, ammunition, and flints distributed to the militia of Queens County. D.S. (copy), Col. G.G. Ludlow, [ca. 1779].
4 11 Richmond County: Oath of allegiance to the King, July 9, 1776; original certified copies with signatures. (5 items – documents are no longer intact  and in poor condition)
4 (note: 12, 12a, & 12b) Suffolk County Census lists, and Enumerations, 1777-1778; Lists include the name of head of family or household, number of persons in each family, inventory of livestock (horses, cattle, and sheep), and quantity grain (corn, oats, and wheat – measured in bushels) produced. (27 items); A number of these lists have been published: see "Suffolk Long Island, New York, 1778 Census," Kenneth Scott, National Genealogical Society Quarterly, vol. 63, Dec 1975, pp. 276-283.
4 12 Suffolk County Census Lists – Southold, 1778. (17 items)
  1. Return of inhabitants and grain in the parishes of Southold, D.S. Sylvester Lester and Daniel Osborn, August 28, 1778.
  2. Southold 1st Parish – Return of inhabitants and inventory of grain compiled by Obadiah Vail and David Conkling, August 21, 1778.
  3. Southold 1st Parish – undated, list of heads of families and inventory of livestock and grain.
  4. Aquebogue – List of inhabitants and inventory of grain compiled by Daniel and Jeremiah Wells, August 22, 1778. (note: spelling of place name appears as "Aquabogue" in most documents)
  5. Aquebogue 4th District – List of heads of families and inventory of livestock and grain compiled by John Cleeves Terry, January 21, 1778.
  6. Aquebogue 7th District – List of heads of families and inventory of livestock and grain compiled by Jeremiah Wells, January 16, 1778.
  7. Aquebogue – List of inhabitants and inventory of grain, 1778.
  8. Cutchogue – List of inhabitants and inventory of grain, August 21, 1778.
  9. Cutchogue – Estimate of inhabitants and grain, August 21, 1778.
  10. Cutchogue – List of heads of families and inventory of livestock and grain compiled by Joshua Goldsmith, January 16, 1778.
  11. Mattituck – Estimate of inhabitants and grain, August [22?], 1778.
  12. Mattituck – Estimate of inhabitants and grain, [August 1778?]
  13. Mattituck – List of heads of families and inventory of livestock and grain compiled by Isaac Reeve, January 15, 1778.
  14. Oysterponds Parish – List of inhabitants and inventory of grain compiled by Barnabas and Jonah Tuthill, August 22, 1778.
  15. Oysterponds Parish – List of heads of household and inventory of livestock and grain, with note listing names of persons as 'gone" January 16, 1778.
  16. Wading River – List of inhabitants and inventory of grain, August 22, 1778.
4 12a Suffolk County Census Lists – Huntington, 1778. (9 items)
  1. Huntington – List of heads of families, horses, cattle, and grain compiled by Cornelius Conkling, January 16, 1778.
  2. Huntington – List of livestock and grain held by various persons, [January 1778].
  3. Huntington – Return of livestock and grain of various persons, January 13, 1778.
  4. Huntington South District – List of the inhabitants and inventory of livestock and grain with record of the quantity of grain wanted for use by the family, [1778]. (4 items)
  5. Huntington – Account of horses (colts) unfit for service, [1778].
  6. Huntington – Return of livestock and grain of a few persons, [1778].
4 12b Suffolk County Census – Easthampton and Southampton: Return of livestock and grain in Suffolk County taken at the desire of General Howe in 1777 by Thomas Fanning. Added note indicates that Thomas Fanning was "now a prisoner of the Rebels." (1 item; 16 p.)
4 13 "List [of inhabitants of several towns in Suffolk County] delivered to Governor Tryon in September 1778 by a Friend of Government." Contains names, locations, and occupation. (4 parts)
4 14 Lists of "Rebel Absentees" or returns of persons absent from their plantations situated in Suffolk County that were submitted by town officers to Gov. William Tryon, October 1778. Contains names of the absentee land lord, location of plantations, acreage, and occupants of the land. (8 items)
  1. A.L.S. Nathaniel Downing, Easthampton, September 30, 1778.
  2. A.D. [Nathaniel Downing, Easthampton, October, 1778].
  3. D. [?], Brookhaven, October 1778.
  4. D.S. Daniel and Philetus Smith, Smithtown, October 2, 1778.
  5. L.S. Isaac Post and Thomas Sanford, Southampton, October 2, 1778.
  6. D.S. Isaac Post and Thomas Sanford, Southampton, October 2, 1778.
  7. D. [?], Southold, October 1778.
  8. "An Account of  Houses" left vacant, 1st Parish of Southold, 1778.
4 15 Returns from various towns in Suffolk County for Governor Tryon regarding the election of persons to correspond with him, 1778-1779. (8 items)
  1. D.S. Richard Woodhull, and others, Brookhaven, June 23, 1778; election of Joseph Brewster and Benjamin Floyd.
  2. D.S. Jasper Platt, Huntington, June 23, 1778; election of John Ireland and Isaac Youngs.
  3. A.D.S. Isaac Thompson, Islip, June 19, 1778; election of Gerrit Keteltas and Caleb Wood.
  4. A.D. John Gardiner, Easthampton, June 23, 1778; election of Samuel Hutchinson and Nathaniel Downing.
  5. D.S. Thomas Cooper and Silas Howell, Southampton, June 23, 1778; election of Isaac Post and Thomas Sanford.
  6. A.D.S. Job Smith, Smithtown, July 13, 1778; election of Daniel and Philetus Smith.
  7. A.D.S. Robert Hempsted, Southold, June 24, 1778; election of Sylvester Lester, and Daniel Osborn, Jr.
  8. A.L.S. Nathan Woodhull, New York, March 25, 1779; concerns the situation in Brookhaven.
4 16 Documents relative to the Light Troops of Westchester Chasseurs, 1777. Officers, men, arms delivered, conditions of service. Some information as to men killed or taken. (8 items, some duplication)
  1. Conditions (terms) of agreement and names of subscribers of the Light Troops of Westchester Chasseurs under the command of Col. James De Laney, August 12, 1777. (2 copies complete; 1 copy incomplete)
  2. Copy of the conditions entered into by Light Troops of Westchester Chasseurs, [1777].
  3. List of Ordnance stores delivered to the Militia of Westchester, September 25, 1777.
  4. Return of Arms, accoutrements [and] delivered on by the Light Troops of Westchester Chasseurs, [October 1777].
  5. Return of Arms, accoutrements [and] delivered on by the Light Troops of Westchester Chasseurs, November 5, 1777.
  6. Return of subsistence due to the officers and enlisted men of De Laney's Light Troops of Westchester Chasseurs, [November 1777].
4 17 Letter of Samuel Buell to Governor Tryon, A.L.S.  Easthampton, June 23, 1778. Has distributed letters and acts of Parliament in East Hampton and the neighboring town, also in Connecticut. Also indicates he is uncertain about his own loyalty.


Civil and Military Affairs Related to Governors Tryon and Robertson – Papers, 1775-1783
5 1 Copies of letters from the Earl of Dartmouth [William Legge] and other British officials to Governor William Tryon relative to trade restrictions and other efforts to suppress the rebellion in the American colonies, April-November 1775; most items are circular duplicates. (5 items printed in Documents Relative to the Colonial History of the State of New-York, vol. 8) (11 items)
  1. L.S. (copy), John Pownall, Whitehall, April 5, 1775; concerns directives from the Earl of Dartmouth regarding an act of Parliament "to restrain the trade and commerce of the province."
  2. A.L.S. (copy), Grey Cooper to John Pownall, Treasury Chambers, May 1, 1775; advises him of a memorandum of Lady Elizabeth Fitzroy relative to the New York Assembly and request that it be presented to the King.
  3. L.S. (copy), John Pownall, Whitehall, May 3, 1775; cover letter for enclosed orders (not included) for Lt. Gov. Cadwallader Colden.
  4. L.S. (copy), [Earl of] Dartmouth, Whitehall, July 1, 1775; discusses the implications of the acts of violence against British troops in Massachusetts that occurred on April 19, 1775 (Battle of Lexington and Concord); also details the King's determination to enforce obedience to the law amongst all colonial subjects and gives directives which the British army and navy make take to suppress the rebellion. (2 copies) Printed in NYCD VIII p. 587-588.
  5. L.S. (copy), [Earl of] Dartmouth, Whitehall, July 5, 1775; further discussion relative to the consequences of the "affair in the neighborhood of Boston on the 19th of April"; concerns that all North American Colonies are in rebellion and the King is determined to "reduce his rebellious subject to obedience"; also indicates the naval fleet and army will be augmented and full support should be given to Admiral Thomas Graves and General Thomas Gage. (2 copies) Printed in NYCD VIII p. 591
  6. L.S. (copy), [Earl of] Dartmouth, Whitehall, July 5, 1775. (2nd copy of previous item)
  7. L.S. (copy), John Pownall, Whitehall, September 6, 1775; concerns a royal proclamation dated August 23, 1775 "for suppressing rebellion and sedition."  Printed in NYCD VIII p. 536
  8. L.S. (copy), John Pownall, Whitehall, October 4, 1775; Advises Tryon to send correspondence on navy ships because packets have been discontinued. Printed in NYCD VIII p. 642
  9. L.S. (copy), [Earl of] Dartmouth, Whitehall, October 28, 1775; circular letter sent to governors of American colonies relative to the King's speech at the opening of Parliament in which he announced his intentions to maintain the "dignity and authority of Parliament."
  10. L.S. (copy), [Earl of] Dartmouth, Whitehall, November 8, 1775; extends the King's permission to allow colonial government officials to seek protection in Britain if so desired.
5 2 Retained copies of letters and reports of E.G.R.A. [John Graham] to Governor Tryon on secret intelligence work, April-June 1776. (10 items)
  1. L.S. (Copy), New York, April 8, 1776; Secret Intelligence, rev. April 1776; Concerns Continental Army fortifications and military strength in New York City and environs.
  2. L.S. (Copy), New York, April 26, 1776; Secret Intelligence, rev. April 28; Contains more information about Continental Army fortifications and military strength in New York City and environs.
  3. L.S. (Copy), New York, April 27, 1776; Secret Intelligence, rev. April 28; Gives account of mission to Niagara and Detroit in effort to keep Indians attached to King's side.
  4. L.S. (Copy), Ship Dutchess of Gordon, New York Harbor, May 2, 1776; Reports that a message from General Howe to Mary Brant to be in turn delivered by a trusty Indian to the Commanding Officer at Fort Niagara, was handed to Indian scout of Sir John Johnson.
  5. A.L.S., John Graham, New York, April 9, 1776; Account of the strength and fortifications of the Continental Army with table showing the nature of guns and where placed on deferent battery's, and diagrams of garrisons.
  6. A.L.S., E.G.R.A., New York, May 8, 1776; Further details of the strength and fortifications of the Continental Army with table on field ordnance mounted on traveling carriages and mortars; also list the location of several Continental Army regiments.
  7. A.L.S., E.G.R.A., New York, May 17, 1776; Elliot is instructed to deliver message to faithful Indian supporters.
  8. A.L.S., E.G.R.A., New York, May 19, 1776; Concerns number of and strength of British troops.
  9. A.L.S., E.G.R.A., New York, May 28, 1776; Account of the number of guns at each battery and where they are positioned.
  10. A.L.S., John Graham, New York, June 18, 1776; Advice on strategy and plans of attack.
5 3 Royal Regiment of Artillery. Lists of Stores from "Rebels" forts Clinton, Montgomery, Constitution, 1777. (3 items)
  1. Return of ordnance and stores taken at Fort Montgomery and Fort Clinton by order of Lieutenant General Sir Henry Clinton, October 7, 1777.
  2. "Return of stores found in Fort Constitution, deserted by the Rebels," October 8, 1777.
  3. Return of the detachments of 1st, 3rd, and 4th battalions at New York and its dependencies, October 13, 1777.
5 4 Commission of appointment from the King to Daniel Wier to be "Superintendent of Forage Provisions, Necessaries, and Extraordinaries" (commissary) of Royal Army in North America under Sir William Howe, D.S. (copy), [Lord] Beauchamp, [Lord Frederick] North, and Sir Richard Onslow, February 1, 1777.
5 5 Testimonial of John Rutan stating that  Lord Brewster and nine others were in the vicinity when a member of  Light dragoons was killed at the east end of Long Island, A.N. [John Rutan], 1778. 
5 6 Instructions for Gen. James Robertson relative to taking up the commission of appointment to the office as Governor in Chief of the Province of New York, A.D.S. (copy), George III, Court of Saint James, June 24, 1779.
5 7 Instructions from Lord George Germain, to Governor James Robertson relative to governing the Province of New York, 1779. (2 items)
  1. Instructions to sail immediately to New York of Ship Raleigh, and to govern by martial law, D.S. (Copy), Lord George Germain, Whitehall, July 9, 1779. (marked Copy No. 1) (Printed in Documents Relative to the Colonial History of the State of New-York, vol. 8, p. 767)
  2. Instruction relative to granting deserted lands to loyalists, D.S. (Copy), Lord George Germain, Whitehall, September 3, 1779. (marked No. 2) copy (Printed in Documents Relative to the Colonial History of the State of New-York, vol. 8, p. 773)
5 8 Copy of orders from Maj. Henry [Lighthorse Harry] Lee to the party who attacked Paulos Hook, D.S. (copy), Henry Lee, August 19, 1779.
5 9 Memorandum relative to the rules governing the exchange of prisoners; Endorsed: Memorandums for exchange of prisoners put into General Tryon's hands by Captain Smith, Sec., after the commander-in-chief left New York. December 1779.
5 10
(EL-2)
Martine [              ]. Map: Place d'Allerme Assigné le 20 Janr. 1780 á la Garrison de Newyourk. In French. Shows territory between Hudson and East rivers, location of German units, roads to Greenwich, Bloomingdale, and Kings Bridge.  (Files with Extra-Large documents -  Folder EL-2)
5 11
  1. Detail of duty at the outposts of Kings Bridge District as ordered by Major General Tryon, D.S., J. Waller, December 10, 1777.
  2. Signals ordered by Lieutenant General Knyphausen from Kings Bridge District to McGowan's Pass, D.[Lt. Gen. Wilhelm, Baron von Knyphausen],  New York, January 20, 1780.
5 12 Letter to  Andrew Elliot informing him that he has been appointed one of the counselors to assist Sir Henry Clinton in his work as Commissioner "to restore [the King's] peace and protection" to the rebellious colonies, A.L.S., J. Simpson, Head Quarters, James Island, March 9, 1780.
5 13
  1. Letter from Maurice Morgann to Andrew Elliot, reminding him that the commander-in-chief [Sir Guy Carleton] wishes a report of the conversation Elliot had with General Knox at Tappen on September 26, 1782  concerning the exchange of General Cornwallis, A.L.S., M. Morgann, [New York], October 3, 1782.
  2. Memorandum: Substance of the conversation that passed between General Know and Mr. Elliot at Tappan the 26th of September, A.D. (draft), [Andrew Elliot], [October 1782].
5 14 Drafts of letters Andrew Elliot had apparently written on behalf of Sir Henry Clinton concerning accounts of quartermaster general and barrack master general, A.L. (draft), [ca. 1778-1778]. (2 items)
5 15 Memorandum: Descriptions of ambulance and light wagon proposed for army use in North America, D.[Andrew Elliot], [New York], [ca. 1776-1778].
5 16 Circular letter of Lord North to James Roberson, Governor of New York, announcing his appointment as one of King's "principal secretaries" and advises the governor should send him all future dispatches which he will lay "immediately before the King," L.S. (copy), [Lord Frederick] North, Whitehall, April 2, 1783.


Evacuation of British Authorities and Troops – Papers, 1782-1783
6 1 Correspondence of Maurice Morgann, secretary to Sir Guy Carleton, commander-in-chief, 1782-1783; the letters were written on behalf of Carleton in regards to matters of trade and commerce. (11 items)
  1. A.L.S., M. Morgan, [New York], November 20, 1782; state that accounts have been received and warrants issued.
  2. A.L.S., M. Morgan, [New York], February 21, 1783; notifies Elliot that trade should proceed as usual.
  3. A.L.S., M. Morgan, [New York], March 13, 1783; business concerning Robert McCulloch's request to export tar is referred to Elliot.
  4. A.L.S., M. Morgan, [New York], March 31, 1783; Sir Guy Carleton directs Elliot to permit loyalist departing for Nova Scotia to take with them all necessary possessions as needed without trouble.
  5. A.L.S., M. Morgan, [New York], April 18, 1783. Sir Guy Carleton approves of matter discussed in enclosure.[No enclosure found]
  6. A.L.S., M. Morgan, [New York], April 26, 1783; Elliot is directed to allow property of American Loyalists to be shipped free of duty to ports in Britain and Ireland.
  7. A.L.S. (draft), Andrew Elliot to M. Morgann, [New York]. March 22, 1783; concerns evacuation of New York City and surrender records related to the police department.
6 1 Enclosures received with the letter of Maurice Morgaan to Andrew Elliot, February 21, 1783.
  1. Certificate and list of cargo taken on board ships Fellowship and Goodhope, A.N.S., Thomas M. Palmer, [1783]. (no. 1 and no. 2)
  2. Memorial (memorandum) of George McCree of the City of New York, D.S., February 19, 1783. (No. 3)
  3. Certificate of goods to be shipped New York to Halifax, Nova Scotia, D.S., Thomas Palmer, February 19, 1783. (No. 4)
  4. Certificate of goods to be shipped New York to Halifax, Nova Scotia, D.S., Treman Oathout and Elias Smith, February 19, 1783. (No. 5)
6 2 Correspondence and report regarding public records to be turned over to American officials prior to evacuation of British troops and government officials, 1783. (4 items) (Also available on microfilm:
MA/FM,974.7103,E462)
  1. Letter of Lord Frederick North to Andrew Elliot concerning evacuation orders and procedures, L.S., New York, August 8, 1783.
  2. Letter of Frederick Mackensie to Andrew Elliot instructing Elliot to turn over public records to John Morin Scott, A.L.S. New York, November 17, 1783.
  3. Copy of letter from Gov. George Clinton to Sir Guy Carleton stating that John Morin Scott is to receive records and public papers of the City of New York, L.S. (copy), Poughkeepsie, November 13, 1783.
  4. Report: "List of public records and original wills in the custody of Samuel Bayard Jr., as Secretary of the Colony of New York", D.S. Samuel Bayard Jr., Lewis A. Scott, William Kirby, and James Roosevelt, New York, November 21, 1783.
6 2a Papers related to the settlement of business and accounts of Andrew Elliot as administrator of the custom house and port of New York, 1783. (8 items) (Also available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462)
  1. Letter of Andrew Elliot to R.B. Sheridan, L.S., New York, November 10, 1783; details the reports and account enclosed with the letter.
  2. No. 1: Letter of Andrew Elliot to Commission of American Customs regarding attached final account as collector of customs and receipt from Governor Tryon, L.S. Andrew Elliot, and Lambert Moore, New York, October 18, 1783.
  3. Copy of account current furnished to the Commissioners of American Customs, D.S., Andrew Elliot, and [David] Matthews, October 18, 1783.
  4. Receipt for money paid to Andrew Elliot as Collector of Customs, D.S., William Tryon, New York, June 9, 1777.
  5. No. 2: Depositions of the collector, comptroller, collectors deputy, and first clerk, of the custom house relative the fire of September 1776, D.S. Andrew Elliot, Lambert Moore, John Moore, James Moran, and [David] Matthews, New York, October 18, 1783.
  6. No. 3: Account current of the Lords Commissioners of his Majesty's Treasury with Andrew Elliot, for salary from September 30, 1776 to September 30, 1783, carried to account current no. 6, D.S. Andrew Elliot, and [David] Matthews, New York, October 18, 1783.
  7. No. 4: Notarized copy of the account duties retained by for prize goods sold by them as agents with related account current dated, May 6, 1782 carried to account current no. 6, D.S. Andrew Elliot, and William Seton, New York, May 6, 1782.
  8. No. 5: Account current of the Lords Commissioners of his Majesty's Treasury with Andrew Elliot, for duties received from agents for prize goods agreeable to an order from the Lords, dated April 8, 1779, D.S., Andrew Elliot, New York, May 6, 1782;  [David] Matthews, October 18, 1783.
  9. No. 6: Account current of the Lords Commissioners of his Majesty's Treasury with Andrew Elliot of New York, being the final settlement of the Business which has been entrusted to him as an officer of the Revenue or as acting under their Lordship's Order, D.S., Andrew Elliot, New York, October 18, 1783.
6 3 Drafts of letters and reports of Andrew Elliot to Sir Henry Clinton, August 7, and October 31, 1782; the earlier documents detail the movement of troops and supplies, necessary provisions of wood and forage, while the later documents concern port regulations and tobacco trade. (4 items)


Judicial Authority, 1782
6 4 Letters and reports concerning the administration of justice in New York City and environs under British Army occupation during the Revolutionary War, 1782. (4 items + cover)
  1. Opinion of William Smith (Chief Justice of Quebec) concerning the restoration of civil authority and courts to administer justice in New York City and surrounding area.
  2. Letter of William Smith to Sir Guy Carleton, L.S., New York, May 31, 1782; cover letter for the opinion in which he indicates input from Frederick Smyth and John Tabor Kempe.
  3. Letter of Frederick Smyth (Chief Justice of New Jersey) to Sir Guy Carleton, L.S., New York, May 31, 1782; recommends the formation of a "Court Board" to bring "justice, order, and humanity" to the people New York.
  4. Letter of John Tabor Kempe to Sir Guy Carleton, L.S. New York, June 2, 1782; advises "great precision" in rendering decisions according to military justice until constitutional courts are restored.


Personal Papers and Records, 1768-1787
6 5 Letters to Andrew Elliot, 1779-1783. (11 items)
  1. Sir Henry Clinton, L.S., New York, May 28, 1779; informs Elliot that he will continue to be Superintendent of Ports until further notice.
  2. James Robertson, L.S., Fort George, November 29, 1781; request the Court of Police turn over proceedings relative to the memorandum of George Folliot.
  3. John Morris, A.L.S., October 1, 1781; seeks relief from financial distress resulting from a substantial reduction in pay.
  4. James Gambier, A.L.S., Queen Street, Mayfair, [London], March 30, 1782; discusses the charges of bribery and collusion brought against his secretary and seeks evidence relative to the matter.
  5. Thomas Barrows, A.L.S., Saint Augustine, May 21, 1782; concerns matters of shipping and trade.
  6. Robert Digby, A.L.S., June 24, 1782; concerns Gideon Dennison of Connecticut.
  7. Note from the adjutant general, November 13, 1782.
  8. Ralph Izzard, A.L.S., Philadelphia, December 6, 1782; request money for his son, so he can buy feed for his horse, and flags of truce displayed on vessels transporting Tories back to Great Britain. (2 copies)
  9. Ralph Izzard, A.L.S., Philadelphia, January 12, 1783; thanks Elliot for the loan, but has not yet received letters of acknowledgement from his son or Mr. DeLancey; suggest there may be problems with sending letters through the mail.
  10. Note concerning a case of wine left behind by Captain Barrows, January 18, 1783.
6 6 Letters and memorandum relative to the confiscation of Andrew Elliot property by the Americans and his claims for restitution, 1782-1783. Copies or drafts. (7 items) (Also available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462).
  1. Letter to Henry Strachey and Andrew Douglass, A.L. (draft), August 17, 1782.
  2. Memorandum of Andrew Elliot to [?] Townsend regarding indemnity for lost property, A.D. (draft), April 12, 1783.
  3. Memorandum of Andrew Elliot to the Lord Commissioners of Treasury listing his services, A.D. (draft), April 12, 1783.
  4. Letter of Andrew Elliot to Lord [William, Earl of] Cathcart concerning indemnity for lost property, A.L. (draft), April 17, 1783.
  5. Letter of Andrew Elliot to Henry Stachey (Undersecretary of State) concerning his claim for indemnity, A.L. (draft), April 17, 1783.
  6. Letter of Henry Strachey to Andrew Elliot indicating that Elliot's case for restitution will be brought to the attention of Lord Cathcart for further consideration, A.L.S., Whitehall, December 25, 1782.
  7. Copy of minutes of the council concerning Elliot's case for financial compensation, July 9, 1782. (enclosed with Strachey letter of December 25, 1782)
6 7 Letters, accounts, and receipts related to payments rendered to Andrew Elliot, 1783-1787. (6 items)
  1. Receipt from Frederick Smyth for payment made to Elliot in exchange for bills, A.N.S., Philadelphia, November 10, 1783.
  2. Receipt from Frederick Smyth for payment for payment made to Elliot, A.N.S., Philadelphia, December 16, 1783.
  3. Receipt for £2600 Sterling paid to the order of Andrew Elliot to be rendered to the account of Frederick Pigon Jr., Merchant of London, N.S., Abel James, Philadelphia, November 17, 1783.
  4. Letter from Frederick Pigon Jr. to Andrew Elliot regarding the settlement of accounts, A.L.S., London, October 21, 1784.
  5. Account (debit-credit) of Andrew Elliot with Joseph Swift, D.S., Philadelphia, May 8, 1787.
6 8 Power of attorney from James Kinsey to Andrew Elliot, D.S., James Kinsey, Abraham Hewlings, and James Logan, August 30, 1782.
6 9 Letter of Andrew Elliot to Sir Gilbert Elliot, in which he seeks assistance obtaining financial security from Great Britain, now that American independence is certain. A.L. (draft), [New York], August 17, 1782.
6 10 Letter of George Clinton to Andrew Elliot, declining Elliot's offer of prempt Mount Minto because he needs to live in New York City, L.S., New York, November 29, 1783.
6 11 Papers concerning Isaac Low's character as a Loyalist. 1785 (3 items)
  1. Letter of Isaac Low to Andrew Elliot requesting assistance. A.L.S. London, October 3, 1785.
  2. Letter of Isaac Low to Andrew Elliot thanking Elliot for the certificate attesting to his character as a loyalist, A.L.S., Barnes Terrace, [England], November 5, 1785.
  3. Draft copy of the certificate attesting to the character of Isaac Low, [October], 1785.  
6 12 Record book: "An Account of estate of the late Sir John St. Clair in hands of Andrew Elliot, one of his executors; also an account of disbursement and charges of the same"; includes debit-credit accounts and related documents, covering a period years from 1767 to 1784. (1 v.; ca. 90 p.)
6 12a Papers related to the estate of Sir John St. Clair, 1786. (2 items found enclosed with the previous item)
  1. Release of executorship: Sir John St. Clair to Andrew Elliot, D.S., August 8, 1786.
  2. Letter of Thomas Coretts to Andrew Elliot, A.L.S., London, August 17, 1786.
6 13 Copies of reports of the Council of New York on the petition of Presbyterian Church, for charter and Kings rejection of petition; April 15 and August 26, 1767. January 27, 1768, D.S. Goldsbrow Banyar, [New York], January 29, 1768. (12 p.)
6 14 Report: "Thoughts on the advantages that may accrue to Great Bratain establishing a British paper dollar in the American colonies"  Accompanied with document showing configuration for fifty British dollars, quarter-guinea, and guinea bills, 1778-1779. (2 items)
6 15 Papers relative to the American Republic; thoughts and observations of Elliot, ca. 1782-1787. (5 items)
  1. Memorandum relative to negotiations with the American States, [1782]; concerns trade and commerce.
  2. Substance of the Provisional articles signed at Paris....on the 30th November 1782.
  3. In forming a treaty with the States of America which is intended as a permanent basis of future amity..., [1783?]; concerns the fate of loyalist.
  4. Queries; comments and question regarding the treaty negotiation, and withdrawal of British [1783?]
  5. Report: Constitution of the United States of American as established in convention held on the 17th of September 1787.
6 16 Memorandum relative to purchasing land in the Provence of New York: discussion of procedure for patenting lands with complaints of procedures, requirements, fees, etc. Undated, but most likely written before the Revolution. No author given.
6 17 Printed item. King's message to House of Lords that Spanish ambassador has been recalled; with answer. London. 1779. (4 p.)
6 18 Original wrappers separated from bundles of papers. (7 items)


Letter and Memorandum Books, 1776-1783
7 1 Memorandums [cover title]: Details trade, police, civil government, expenses of the army, and other matters relative to British occupation of new York City from 1776 to 1783. Also contains a summary of the "Paper Books" series and list of books and papers (many found elsewhere in collection) which Elliot carried with him when he returned to Great Britain at the close of the Revolutionary War. (1 v.; 124 p.; 23 cm.) (Also available on microfilm: MA/FM,974.7103,E462, 3rd reel)
7 2 Rough draft of the reports that were transcribed in the bound memorandum book (previous item), A.D., Andrew Elliot, [1783]. (11 parts)
7 [3-5] Letter books A-C. 1776-1783. 3 vol. Indexed. Many of the letters, reports, accounts, etc. appear elsewhere in the collection in rough draft form, or as originals, with signatures.
7 3 Letter book "A" 1776-1783; Contains copies of letters, memorandum, and account relative to the collection of customs and import duties. (1 v.; 61 (80) p.; 32 cm.)
7 4 Letter book "B" 1776-1780; Contains copies of letters of Andrew Elliot as Superintendent of imports and exports. (1 v.; 90 p.; 32 cm.)
7 5 Letter book "C" 1780-1783; Contains copies of letters of Andrew Elliot as Superintendent of imports and exports. (1 v.; 90 p.; 32 cm.)


Broadsides, 1778-1780 (filed separately from main collection)
EL 1 Proclamations regarding prices, shipping etc., 1778-1780. Printed.
(26 broadsides – originally box 2 folder 20)
  1. By His Excellency James Robertson, Esq.; Governor and Captain General, Proclamation, Whereas I am informed that great WASTE and devastation is …, n.d., n.p. (39 x 25 cm.)
  2. Regulations and Instructions for the Conduct of the Patrole to be established …, The Agents for Transports hereafter named, are to have the charge and superintendence of all the vessels that are, and may be placed in the different districts … n.p., n.d. (40 x 33 cm.)
  3. By His Excellency Sir William Howe, Knight of the Bath, General and Commander in Chief … A Proclamation. Whereas many vessels have arrive, and are daily arriving in port with cargoes of different kinds..  July 17, 1777. (news clipping attached) (39 x 32 cm.)
  4. By His Excellency Sir William Howe, Knight of the Bath, General and Commander in Chief … A Proclamation. Whereas many vessels have arrive, and are daily arriving in port with cargoes of different kinds..  July 17, 1777. (endorsement and other writing on back) (39 x 32 cm.)
  5. By His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, Knight of the Most Honorable Order of the Bath …, Proclamation. Whereas it is consonant not only to the common principles of humanity …, New York, December 20, 1777. (41 x 27 cm.)
  6. By the Earl of Carlisle, Sir Henry Clinton, and William Eden, Esq. … Proclamation. Whereas in pursuance of an Act, made and passed in the eighteenth year of his Majesty's reign, entitled, "An act to enable his Majesty to appoint Commissioners …, New York, September 26, 1778. (49 x 38 cm.)
  7. Manifesto and Proclamation. To the members of the Congress, the members of the General Assemblies … By the Earl of Carlisle, Sir Henry Clinton, and William Eden, Esq. … Having amply and repeatedly made known to the Congress, New York, October 3, 1778. (58 x 47 cm.)
  8. Manifesto und Feyerliche Bekanntmachung (copy of previous item translated from English to German by Reverend B.M. Houseal) (58 x 47 cm.)
  9. For regulating the Prices of Wood. Proclamation, by Major General Jones, Commandant of New York. Complaints having been made that exorbitant Prices are being exacted for Firewood, New York, November 28, 1778. (42 x 26 cm.)
  10. By Order of the Commandant, the following rates are established for carting, to take place from and after the tenth day of this instant … n.p., December 7, 1778 (43 x 24 cm.)
  11. By Order of the Commandant. All Masters of Vessels now laying in this Harbour having Gun-Powder on board … New York, May 22, 1779. (32 x 21 cm.)
  12. By James Pattison, Esq.; Major-General of His Majesty's Forces …, Proclamation. Whereas there is great reason to believe that many persons, not only come to this city, without any pass or permission … New York, July 12, 1779. (45 x 24 cm.)
  13. By His Excellency William Tryon, Esq.; Governor and Commander in Chief … A Proclamation. The Spanish Ambassador having lately … New York, September 2, 1779. (40 x 24 cm.)
  14. By His Excellency William Tryon, Esq.; Governor and Commander in Chief … A Proclamation. The Spanish Ambassador having lately … New York, September 2, 1779. (2nd copy with endorsement) (40 x 25 cm.)
  15. Cartmens [sic] Rates by Order of the Commandant. The following Rates for Cartmen are being recommended … n.p., September 16, 1779. (30 x 19 cm.)
  16. By His Excellency William Tryon, Esquire, Governor … A Proclamation, His Majesty's approbation of the zeal of his Faithful Subjects, in equipping Letters of Marque for destroying and distressing … New York, September 17, 1779. (32 x 21 cm.)
  17. The Public Service Requiring the immediate assistance of the Inhabitants, NOTICE is hereby given, That Jeronimus Alstyne, & John Amory, are empowered … n.p., September 29, 1779. (30 x 19 cm.)
  18. By James Pattison, Esq.; Major-General … Proclamation. Whereas the Safety of the City, and the preservation of the Shipping … New York, November 16, 1779. (29 x 25 cm.)
  19. By James Pattison, Esq.; Major-General of His Majesty's Forces, … Proclamation. Whereas many Evils daily arise from the unlimited numbers of Taverns and Public Houses … n.p., January 1, 1780. (39 x 25 cm.)
  20. By James Pattison, Esq.; Major-General of … Proclamation. Whereas in all well regulated Societies where Protection is given to the Person and Property of every Individual, it becomes the Duty … New York, January 20, 1780. (37 x 26 cm.)
  21. By James Pattison, Esquire; Major-General of His Majesty's … Whereas the several Captains of the City Companies lately embodied, have under their Signature agreed to the following REGULATIONS, … New York, January 24, 1780. (33 x 20 cm.)
  22. By His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, Knight of the Bath, General and Commander in Chief … A Proclamation. Although the wicked and daring Rebellion which hath been raised in several of his Majesty's Colonies and Provinces … March 3, 1780. (41 x 25 cm.)
  23. Police Office, New York, 15 March 1780. Quality, Weight and Price of BREAD. By Order of Commandant. That on and after, Monday next the 20th instant, all BREAD made of sweet FLOUR of the first quality … New York, March 15, 1780.  (32 x 21 cm.)
  24. Police Office, New York, 15 March 1780. Quality, Weight and Price of BREAD. By Order of Commandant. That on and after, Monday next the 20th instant, all BREAD made of sweet FLOUR of the first quality … New York, March 15, 1780. (2nd copy with endorsement) (32 x 21 cm.)
  25. Police Office, New York, November 20, 1780. Quality, Weight and Price of BREAD. By Order of Commandant. That on and after Thursday the 23rd instant, all BREAD made of sweet FLOUR … New York, November 20, 1780. (21 x 21 cm.)
  26. Commandant's Office. Whereas the Inhabitants of this City, notwithstanding the Regulations heretofore made … n.p., September 30, 1782. (33 x 21 cm.)
EL  2 Martine [         ]. Map: Place d'Allerme Assigné le 20 Janr. 1780 á la Garrison de Newyourk. Shows territory between Hudson and East rivers, location of German units, roads to Greenwich, Bloomingdale, Kings Bridge. (from box 5 folder 10)
Last Updated: January 18, 2022