William Ellery, signer of the Declaration of Independence, is the town's namesake.

[3] The lake frontage was developed early as a tourist and recreational location.

The Ellery town government consists of a supervisor, council, and various department heads.

[6] The Southern Tier Expressway (Interstate 86 and New York State Route 17) crosses Chautauqua Lake at Bemus Point.

New York State Route 430 follows the east shore of Chautauqua Lake.

New York State Route 380 is a north-south highway in the eastern part of Ellery.

26.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.