Designated the Walworth County seat in 1838, Elkhorn has maintained a slower pace of life despite its exciting history and its growth as a community. Music provided to its citizens entertainment as well as employment, with the establishment of a prosperous band instrument industry. Elkhorn was also once known as the "Christmas Card City," when images from around town were featured on several Hallmark cards. In 1995, Elkhorn was included in Norm Crampton's book, The 100 Best Small Towns in America. Elkhorn's residents agree that their town meets the book's criteria--a spirit of community, a feeling of safety, a commitment to the well-being of its children, and a growing population.