Series IV. John Crowninshield (1771-1842) Papers extends from 1789-1897 and are divided into four subseries.

Subseries A. Correspondence is almost entirely devoted to shipping and business affairs between John, his father, and his brothers. This section contains the largest body of correspondence from George Crowninshield, Sr. Letters from Jacob (November 1794, January 1796) describe his efforts to bring the first elephant to America. Letters from John's wife, Maria, provide more personal information after 1813. Correspondence from George, Jr.'s illegitimate daughter Sophia is also found in this section (1818-1821, 1829, 1842). The correspondence transcripts are mostly duplicates of the original John Crowninshield letters in previous folders. Miscellaneous transcripts are excerpts from the logbooks of ships Belisarius (1797-1798) and America (1801), and a letter of instructions for sloop Polly and Sally (1791).

Subseries B. Shipping and Business Papers are generally comprised of administrative materials related to Crowninshield shipping activities and papers that document John's efforts at diversification through real estate investments in Maine and other businesses in New Orleans. The accounts are primarily related to the crew of the Belisarius but also concern the cargo carried on that voyage. The New Orleans investment papers contain correspondence, bills, and accounts with the two agencies that handled the distillery and the saw mill. Correspondence from Benjamin (1782-1864) includes letters to John during the 1817 voyage of Cleopatra's Barge and material concerning the supervision of the New Orleans businesses.

Subseries C. Personal Papers includes estate papers, accounts, receipts, and legal papers concerning John Crowninshield's private affairs.

Subseries D. Family Papers are comprised of materials relative to John's wife and children. Maria Crowninshield's correspondence is comprised of personal letters she received from John and her sisters.