Named for that noble animal that once abounded in this region in large numbers, Elk County was formed from parts of Jefferson, Clearfield and McKean Counties on April 18, 1843. Ridgway, the county seat, was named for Jacob Ridgway, a local landowner. Elk County's first inhabitants were presumed to be Seneca or Cornplanter Indians. Ruins of Indian forts have been found near Russell City in Highland Township. The Old Kittaning Indian Trail, the most direct route from Olean, New York to Kittanning transverses western Elk County. The trail was utilized by early Iroquois hunting and raiding parties. It was also reportedly used as a military road.

The abundant forest lands primarily attracted the County's early settlers in 1787. The County's first industries were indicative of the natural terrain. As a result, the marketing of timber, in various forms, was Elk County's first major industry. The laying of rails added impetus to the early economy and increased the shipping of timber and coal.

Today, powder metal is also a thriving industry in the county. A high percentage of the population is employed in this industry.

As part of the Allegheny National Forest one can also come to see the growing elk herd, reintroduced to the area in the early 20th century.