It is a part of the municipality of Schouwen-Duiveland, and lies about 26 km west of Hellevoetsluis.

The village was first mentioned in 1236 as "Henricus de Ellimed", and means "hayland of Ello (person)".

[5] The original village did have a church, however it was destroyed in 1575 during the Siege of Zierikzee.

[7] Between 1965 and 1971, the Brouwersdam was built as part of the Delta Works to protect Zeeland.

Recreational facilities and holiday homes were created along the lake.