The Courthouse, at the center of the Square, is the heart of downtown. In 1852, after Elba was selected as the county seat of Coffee County, the town was moved back from the river one-half mile to its present location. The Courthouse was built in the center and most of the streets were named for leading citizens. Elba was incorporated on April 13, 1853. The Courthouse has withstood the flooding of the Pea River on numerous occasions. Today the Courthouse is still in operation.