Sir John Eliot, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir John Eliot, 1st Baronet (born in 1736, died 7 November 1786) was an important Scottish doctor. He became famous as the personal physician to the Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV. A baronet is a special title, like a knight, that can be passed down in a family.

Sir John Eliot's Journey

Early Life and Becoming a Doctor

John Eliot was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1736. His father was a "Writer to the Signet," which was a type of lawyer in Scotland. John first studied with a teacher named Nathaniel Jesse.

After his studies, he moved to London. There, he worked as an assistant to an apothecary. An apothecary was like a pharmacist who also prepared medicines.

Later, John Eliot worked as a surgeon on a privateer. A privateer was a private ship that was allowed by the government to attack enemy ships during wartime. He earned some money from this work.

With this money, he decided to become a full doctor. He earned his medical degree (M.D.) from the University of St Andrews on 6 November 1759. He was then allowed to practice medicine in London.

A Successful Career

John Eliot quickly became a very successful doctor. He received help from another Scottish doctor, Sir William Duncan, who was the King's own physician. This help allowed Eliot to earn a lot of money from his medical practice.

In 1776, he was given the title of Knight. This was a special honor from the King. Then, on 25 July 1778, he was made a baronet. This meant he was given the title "Sir" and his family could inherit it.

He also became the personal doctor to the Prince of Wales. This was a very important job, showing how trusted and skilled he was.

Working for Royalty

In 1786, when the Prince of Wales was unwell, Sir John Eliot was caring for him. He spoke with Queen Charlotte, the Prince's mother. He told her he had given the Prince advice on staying healthy. The Queen replied that she hoped his advice would be helpful.

On 19 October 1771, Sir John Eliot married Grace Dalrymple.

He lived in a grand house on Great Marlborough Street in London. Sir John Eliot passed away on 7 November 1786. He died at Brocket Hall in Hertfordshire, which was the home of his friend, Peniston Lamb, 1st Viscount Melbourne.

He was buried in the churchyard of Bishops Hatfield. A special plaque was placed there to remember him. His uncle, William Davidson, put up the plaque, which included some words written by Edward Jerningham.