became incorporated in 1852, the original municipalities included the Townships of Aldborough, Dunwich, Southwold, Yarmouth, Malahide, Bayham and South Dorchester and the Village of St. Thomas which also served as the County Seat. In 1861, the City of St. Thomas officially separated from the County and formed a single tier government.

While the boundaries of the County have remained unchanged to this day, there have been a number of changes to local governments over time, with the emergence of new towns and villages and the departure of others. The most significant change occurred in 1998 when the County restructured into seven local municipalities.

The seven municipalities within Elgin County are all unique in their own ways, providing employment, recreation, transportation options and a friendly and welcoming feel to residents and visitors alike.