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Named
for the noble animal that once abounded in this region in large numbers,
Elk County was formed parts of Jefferson, Clearfield, and McKean Counties
on April 18, 1843. Elk County's first inhabitants were presumed to Seneca
or Cornplanter Indians. Ruins of Indian forts have been found near Russell
City in Highland Township. The old Kittanning Indian Trail , the most direct
route from Olean, New York to Kittanning, transverses western Elk County.
The Trail was used 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 earliest 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, powdered metal is also
a thriving industry in the county. A high percentage of the population
is employed in this industry. |
