Eliot was once a part of Kittery known as the Upper Parish. Eliot later separated from Kittery in 1810. The 747-ton Elizabeth Hamilton and the clipper ship Nightingale were launched from Eliot, as were numerous small craft.

Buildings of historical interest in Eliot include the William Fogg Library, the William Fogg House, the Dr. Willis Homestead (1725), and 1768 Libby Home (a former roadside tavern).

The rural community of Eliot continues to follow in the tradition of its fore founders with the preservation of environmental and historical assists and the pursuit of economic growth. Eliot is ideally situated along the bands of the Pisctaqua River and just minutes away from Portsmouth's downtown.