The city was founded by Major John Gray and established by the state assembly in 1820.

It is named for the presence of an elk herd that utilized a nearby waterway and natural salt lick.

[6] According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.1 square miles (5.4 km2), all land.

30.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

[10] The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters.