I have 50 elders and can't seem to make any more despite villagers having 3 master skills.... is there a limit?

Yes, 50 elders is the limit. there is an event that will give you an extra Elder though and can happen multiple times. I have not had this event, but that is how people on the leaderboards have over 50.

Yes, the limit is 50. But a certain event can make it 51.

I can't believe this but I have a 7 year old male child that is an Esteem Elder! I just seen it for the first time, but, no extra totem for him so far anyway. If I knew how to add pictures on here I'd do it for y'all to see.

I too would like to know how you add pictures, it's great to see other players villages, and I would very much like to see this 7 year old esteemed elder!

Any chance of a hint what type of event - or do I just have to keep on brewing up different stews?
:-))

It's one of the Island Events, and those occur randomly.

Adding pictures: You need to capture the pic by using the PrtScr key (if using a PC, sorry don't know the routine for a Mac), or using a capture program.

You can then upload your pic to a free pic hosting website like http://www.photobucket.com (free - and you can google for others).

Most of these sites have a clear, easy tutorial to walk you through uploading if you need it. Once the pic is uploaded, the site will generally offer you at least three options to use for posting. The best one is the "img...". You simply copy the img url in your post, and you're done.

Do I need to still have an esteemed elder alive when I get this island event? All mine are long dead, and I want to know if I have a chance.

Yes, you would need a living Esteemed Elder and that elder would have to be the 'target' for the event.