THE EARLY HISTORY OF THE KENTUCKY STATE CHAPTER

BY JIM WILLIAMS

During the first quarter of 1973, a meeting was held at the Trigg County courthouse in Cadiz, KY in hopes that people who loved to turkey hunt would attend. Trigg, Caldwell, Christian, Calloway and Lyon counties in Western KY were represented at the meeting in which the following officers were elected. Pres: David Hale, V. Pres: Harold Knight & Sec-Treas: Jack Hays. Others in attendance were Charles Simpson, Jackie Davis, Joe Pat Futrell, J.L. Hendricks, Jerry Turner, Bobby Wells and I. The first chapter was now formed in KY and we became the third state to affiliate with the NWTF, South Carolina and George being the first two.

The 1973 Banquet was held at Lake Barkley State Park with approximately 165 people attending. TVA and LBL co-hosted the event. The 1974 Banquet was also held at Barkley Lodge with 640 in attendance. The State Fire Marshall halted admission at 640 leaving several people standing outside. Harold Knight and David Hale invited the NWTF President Tom Rodgers to attend our second banquet. Also invited were Carl Kays (KDFWR Commission) and Mike Boatwright (2nd District KDFWR Commissioner). A short business meeting was held to discuss where KY could get some wild turkeys. Mr. Kays discouraged the idea of wild turkey in KY, but agreed there was great interest in the wild turkey as was shown by the magnitude of people in attendance 640 (a sell out), not to mention those turned away by the Fire Marshall. We discussed hiring a Wild Turkey Biologist and recommended George Wright who was soon to graduate from college. George was doing his thesis on the wild turkey in the LBL. A letter of recommendation was written with about 60 signatures backing George. George was hired and put on a raccoon project in Eastern KY for 3 years before becoming our Turkey Biologist. Money raised at the first 2 banquets was used to purchase Cannon Nets and Projectiles for capturing wild turkey. Later, a four-wheeler and fire plows were bought and given to the state by this NWTF chapter. In 1975, the banquet was moved to Crofton KY, the home town of Wayne Clark who was elected the V. Pres.

In 1974, the State Chapter started and co-hosted with the LBL the first State Turkey Calling & Owl Hooting Contest. This was held in conjunction with the National Hunting and Fishing Field Day. The 1974 Turkey Calling Champion was Harold Knight. The 1974 Owl Hooting Champion was Jerry Turner with the runner up being Rod Murphy. The 1975 Turkey Calling Champion was David Hale, the 1976 Champion was Joe Pat Futrell, and the 1977 Champion was Jim Williams. Other people who had an impact on our calling contest and chapter development were Hope Carlton and Bob Smith who helped coordinate the events and judge the contests, Col. Dave Harbour (long time friend of David Hale and Harold Knight) who encouraged us, and Wade Bourne whose help was readily available. Hope was working for KY AFIELD, Bob was a Biologist for the LBL, Col. Harbour was an accomplished outdoors writer as well as hunter, and Wade also an outdoors writer. Col. Dave is credited with the formula that we use today to score our birds. He also donated to the NWTF his many, many records of the wild turkey that he had studied in the field and birds that were harvested by him and others. It was always a pleasure to visit the Col. At his camp in Hillman Campground in the LBL. He had hours and hours of stories that he would relate to us of his numerous travels and hunts.

In 1978, KY made a deal with the state of Mississippi in which we would trade one Ballard County Whitetail buck for three wild turkeys. George Wright, James Ray Littlejohn and others armed with their cannon nets and traps headed for Mississippi and the Ballard County Refuge to trap turkey and deer. A total of 62 birds that had been trapped were released in Christian County on a tract of land containing 4,000 acres of which was known by local folk as "Lonesome Woods". Two sites were targeted for releases on this tract. This was a dream come true for the "Charter" members of the chapter, especially David Hale who had been so diligent in his efforts of procuring wild turkeys for KY. In spite of the miles of discouragement "NO" was not an accepted word and turkeys did become the end result 8 years after the State Chapter was formed in 1973.

In 1980, Wayne Clark became the President of the State Chapter. For several years, Crofton hosted the annual events in which the KY State, Bluegrass Open and the KY Youth Calling Contest were held. I do not have the names of any of the other champions, but I do know that there were several and different winners in the years to follow.

In 1986, the banquet was held back at the Convention Center at Barkley Lodge. This was the first year that I remember a "Core Package" as issued by the NWTF.

The President's Gavel has been passed from David Hale (1973-1980) to Wayne Clark (1980-1991) to Jonathan Davis (1991-1995) to Alex Lea (1995-1999). to Schuyler Olt (1999-2003).  In July of 2003, Joe Bland succeeded Schuyler Olt and serves as the current State Chapter President.

As we continue to pass the Gavel to the next generation, let us remember what was passed to us by Mr. Shelley Nickell, better known as the "PROTECTOR" of the wild turkey in the "Land betwixt the Rivers". Let us continue the tradition of conservation that Mr. Shelley started around the turn of the century. I would like to share with you the information that I have obtained from the Library of the LBL, from Mr. Nickell's family, and people who interviewed Mr. Nickell.

After the State Chapter was formed in 1973, Bob Smith, a Biologist for the LBL, and presently a member of the Trigg County Long Spurs Chapter, suggested that we honor one of the pioneers of the turkey restoration in the LBL by having an award named after him. The Pioneer was Mr. Shelley Nickell. Mr. Nickell is credited as having saved the only turkeys native to KY by keeping watch over them during his lifetime, thus becoming knows as their "PROTECTOR". The saga of Mr. Nickell began over 100 years before his birth, when his forefather, Jeremiah Nickell, picked up his wife and belongings in Virginia and headed west. When Jeremiah came to the east bank of the Tennessee River in KY, he traveled downstream until he found a location with an abundance of fresh water, wildlife and fish. Mr. Nickell built a homestead in the area bordered on the west by the Tennessee River and on the east by the Cumberland River, which was soon to be called "Land Betwixt the Rivers". Today this land is known as "Land Between the Lakes", thus (LBL).

In 1782, the area supported large herds of deer, small herds of buffalo, wild turkey and ruffed grouse, the later two being unlimited in number.

Some 50 years later, the Iron Furnaces started operation in the area and before long the wildlife habitat had been depleted, causing a drastic reduction in the wildlife numbers as they neared extinction. Further aggravating the loss of the wildlife were large numbers of hunters coming to the area and setting up camp to hunt for months. Wildlife all but disappeared in "Land Betwixt the Rivers".

Shelley Nickell came into the picture around 1908, when he returned home to his native region after working out west. He married a local girl, settled on his father's farm, which he later bought, and became the "PROTECTOR" of the few remaining wild turkey known to exist in the area. He always provided for the wildlife with food plots left in the fields, and by having wide fence rows so the wildlife could have protection from the elements and predators.

Mr. Nickell is credited as having saved the last few turkeys known to exist in the area and possibly the entire state. Mr. Nickell saw his turkey population increase and decrease over the years until about 1919, when a refuge was established just south of his property. In 1935, Mr. Nickell was fired from a job that he had volunteered to do, which was patrolling the refuge as well as private lands. In 1947, the KY Woodlands Refuge reported the population of the wild turkey to be about 100 birds. Thirteen years later that population was reported to be between 300-600 birds. A season was opened in the KY Woodlands Refuge with 12 gobblers harvested during the 3-day hunt. This was a controlled hunt with 377 hunters attempting to harvest a bird. So, from less than a dozen birds in 1908 to between 300-600 in 1960, we must tip our hat to the Nickell family for their part in the conservation of the wild turkey. A new KY NWTF chapter was formed in the Grand Rivers area in 1998, and selected for their name the "SHELLEY NICKELL CHAPTER", with hopes of continuing what Mr. Shelley started years ago.

Let me share with you what transpired during the 3-day hunt that was opened on April 27, 1960. A total of 377 hunters anxiously waited for the time they would be released by the KY Woodlands staff to try out their skills in attempting to harvest the bronze denizen of the forest. As the clock slowly ticked down to 4:30 AM, the hunters were exchanging visions and dreams of this great bird which had not been legally hunted for 41 years. In this group were some young men native to the Golden Pond area that would prove to the world how their knowledge and lore of the wild turkey and its habitat would set them apart from the remainder that were selected for the "Quota" hunt as we know it today. It was hoped that the 3-day season would show a harvest of 1 bird for every 50 hunters. The total for the season was 12 gobblers, most of which were taken by the native fold. Among this group of native folk was a young man 16 years of age who, with his fine skill of using the "yelper" (as it was called back then) harvested his first bird on the second day of the season. This young man was Harold Knight. The local people who harvested birds were Knight, Howard Lane, Harvey Littlejohn, Maurice Calhoun, Carl Fennel, Ernest Littlejohn, G.W. Weaver, and James "Ed" Littlejohn. It was reported that lots of the hunters heard the courtship gobbles of the Toms, but very few would be successful in harvesting a bird. We should again thank Mr. Nickell for his vision and dreams some 50 years ago could now be experienced by all turkey hunters. "Man, it seems, is still the most astute being; even more shrewd than the bronze ghost of the dark woodlands." (HHG-July, 1960)
 

KENTUCKY WOODLANDS WILDLIFE REFUGE

In 1966 the state’s Chief Forest Wildlife Biologist reported that all of the turkeys whose existence within the state could be verified were descendants of the Hillman Refuge flock, having been trapped and transplanted either directly from the Refuge or from one of the restoration areas where flocks had been established by Hillman stock.  Trapping privileges ceased about 1962-63, but was restored to the State of KY by TVA in 1973.

 SHELLEY NICKELL AWARD

The first recipient of the "Shelley Nickell Award" was David Deskins of Pikeville, KY. David was given this award in 1978 for his outstanding service in the conservation of the wild turkey. David was very instrumental in the early efforts of protecting the wild turkey in Eastern KY. David's most recent contribution has been in helping to establish the Pike County Putters in Pikeville, KY, David's hometown.

The second recipient of this award was George Wright, from Caldwell County, in 1980. George is our State Biologist for the wild turkey and he has done exceptional work in the restoration of this magnificent bird in our great commonwealth. George has spent countless hours in the field trapping and studying the wild turkey. His work is known and respected nationwide, making him a leader throughout the USA, in the restoration of the wild turkey.

The third person to be honored with this award was David Hale, from Trigg County, in 1983. David has given unfailingly to the support of the wild turkey. He was President of the first chapter formed in the State in 1973, helped convince the KDFWR that the wild turkey needed to be restocked in KY, worked relentlessly in promoting this once it was started, and helped with the purchase of equipment for trapping these birds by giving the state money raised at the annual banquets.

The fourth person to receive this award was Wayne Clark, from Christian County, in 1989. Wayne was elected as the Vice President in 1975, and in 1980 as the President, which he served until 1991. Wayne was very instrumental in hosting the very first banquets and calling contests. Wayne has been a Sponsor Member for several years and has given his support to those chapters that have been formed since he was President. Without Wayne to carry the torch from 1980 to 1991, the KY State Chapter would not have made it and to this, Wayne, we say "thanks".

The fifth person selected to be honored with this award was Pat Cardin, from Hardin County, in 1998. Pat was one of the first District Directors who volunteered his time to help the Regional Directors. Pat helped in the organization of new chapters, worked banquets when the RD could not be there, and helped promote the youth in the wild turkey program by helping produce the video "GETTING INVOLVED".

I (Jim Williams), from Lyon County, was the next person to receive this prestigious award in 1999. I have been involved with the NWTF since its inception in 1973, when along with nine others we formed the first chapter in Cadiz, KY. I am a Life Member, a Senior Sponsor Member, one of the first District Directors, and I have worked with chapters across the state in promoting the wild turkey and our youth. The most memorable event in my turkey travels was when I helped in the organization of a chapter in Grand Rivers, KY in 1998. We named this chapter the "Shelley Nickell Chapter" in honor of the "Protector" himself, Mr. Shelley Nickell.

In January of 2000, Mike Davis of Lawrenceburg, KY (Shelby County) was presented this award for the year 1999. Mike has been a member of the NWTF since the mid 80's, is a Senior Sponsor Member, a Certified Calling Contest Judge, a Director of the State Board Since 1990, served as Master of Ceremonies of Calling Contests, served on the Awards Committee since 1997, and has promoted the youth in our state by personally signing up Jakes Members at the banquets he has attended. Mike is also a member of Ducks Unlimited, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and The Isaac Walton League. Mike helped to organize chapters in and around the central part of the State. He has helped organize and conduct wild turkey hunting seminars in the city of Louisville and in Oldham County. Mike served as publicity chairman with Jim Strader for the 1993 NWTF Convention in Louisville.

During the annual Awards Banquet held in January 2001, Harold Knight (Trigg County) of Knight and Hale Game Calls was the recipient of the Shelley Nickell Memorial Award for the year 2000. Harold is one of the charter members of the first chapter formed in KY, a Life Member, a Sponsor Member and has donated not only of his products, but also of his time to promote the wild turkey here in KY and across this great nation. Harold is a member of several wildlife organizations and supports these as well.

Donnie McDonald of the Three Rivers Chapter in Muhlenberg Co. was presented the Shelley Nickell Memorial Award at the 2002 KY State Awards Banquet. Donnie has been supportive of the NWTF since the early 80's when he became a member at one of the Crofton banquets. Donnie has been involved in the Jakes, WITO and habitat programs since the Three Rivers Chapter was formed. With Donnie's leadership, the Three Rivers Chapter has attained Golden Gobbler for all of its banquets (7). Donnie's interest in habitat programs spans across two states where he maintains food plots for wildlife. He is a caring father and grandfather having his entire family as members of the NWTF. Donnie's chapter has been the seed chapter for several new chapters in the area. He was named the Sportsman of the Year in June of 2001, by the League of KY Sportsmen.

Joe Bland of Waddy, KY (Shelby County), is the 2002 recipient of the Shelley Nickell Award.  Joe has been instrumental in the conservation of the Wild Turkey and other wildlife in the state of Kentucky for his entire life.  Joe served as a Conservation Officer for 20 years prior to his employment with the National Wild Turkey Federation as Regional Director, starting in 1995, and then serving as Regional Field Supervisor from 1998 until his retirement.  Although Joe retired as our RD, he is doing volunteer work for us by serving in the capacity as a District Director.  Through his leadership, the state of Kentucky grew its membership and conservation projects.  The chapter growth went from a very few in 1995 to over 80 across the state and conservation projects multiplied because of chapter growth.  During his tenure, we saw the Superfund dollars spent reach the $1,000,000.00 mark.  His leadership and knowledge in conservation efforts made Kentucky the leader in dollars spent per projects completed in the Superfund arena.  Joe Bland has generated thousands of dollars in donations and gifts to the NWTF.  He has attained the status of Guardian Life Sponsor, and he has been a Sponsor member of several chapters across the state. Joe has been on the forefront when it comes to taking kids hunting.  He has participated in the Wheelin’ Sportsmen’s hunt in Kentucky by sponsoring and guiding the participants.  He has opened his farm and lease up for kids to have a place to hunt. The name Joe Bland is synonymous to KY-NWTF.

Bobby Spencer serves as President for the Wilderness Trail Chapter (Anderson County) and has been a member of the NWTF for 10+ years.  He has held numerous offices in many different local chapters.  Bobby is now serving another term as a State Board member and is a District Director.  He alone has been responsible for signing up hundreds of new members, securing thousands of dollars in donations, and has given many hours of his time to promote the wild turkey.  His love and passion in the conservation of the wild turkey and hits habitat has been passed on to his family and friends.  He taught his son at a young age how to be an ethical hunter and fisherman, and the responsibility of conservation.  He has been exemplary in teaching conservation to not only his generation, but a second, and third generation as well.  His love of nature and wildlife, therein, has given him the edge of continuing a legacy of our hunting heritage and family values.  Bobby's dedication to the conservation of the Wild Turkey has helped the State of Kentucky in being one of the leading states in the nation.

Joe Broughton of Boyd County, and the Northeast Chapter of the KY-NWTF, is the 2004 recipient of the Shelley Nickell Memorial Award.  Broughton has championed the growth of the NWTF membership in his area of the state with dedication and leadership that is second to none.  He has held numerous offices in local chapters, is a state board officer and member, and has worked at the National Convention helping with registrations.  He has led his local chapter to become one of the top 5 chapters in raising money for the Superfund.  He has conducted youth seminars that have reached over 5,000 Jakes.  His leadership of the WITO events has helped his chapter attain the "Golden Hen" status numerous times.  He has been on the forefront in supplying equipment and supplies for the KDFWR.  He has volunteered his time for helping in rehab projects, youth education, Hunter's Care, and the Shriners.  He also promotes the Wheelin' Sportsman program through his donation of time and gifts.  His leadership in conservation and education projects inspires others to get involved as he leads from the front and pushes for results.  His diligence of taking on a task has garnered him respect from his peers across the state by selecting him as a recipient for this award which is the highest award given to NWTF volunteers in the Bluegrass State.

Alex Lea:  The 2005 Shelley Nickell Memorial Award winner is a longstanding member of the NWTF, having served in numerous capacities within our local and state organizations.  He served two terms as the President of the State Chapter, is a charter and sponsor member of his home chapter, sponsored with other chapters in the state, and has served as a District Director.  He is a "Roger Latham" recipient which is the highest award given to a volunteer in the NWTF.  He has been recognized as "The Sportsman of the Year", an award given by the League of Kentucky Sportsmen.  He is a member of numerous conservation organizations and takes an active role in each.  During his tenure as State Chapter president, the District Director program was started, which resulted in rapid growth of our membership and chapters across the state.  He helped to re-establish the Shelley Nickell Memorial Award in the mid 90's.  He supports conservation and education efforts of the NWTF which makes him a wildlife ambassador for the state of Kentucky.  We welcome Alex Lea as the 2005 Shelley Nickell Memorial Award recipient.

Jonathan Davis was presented the 2007 recipient of the Shelley Nickell Memorial Award.  Jon has been a member of the NWTF for over 30 years and is a Diamond Life Member.  He had been instrumental in the membership growth in our state.  Jon has served as master of ceremonies for Jim Strader seminars, turkey calling contests, seminars at Fort Know, as well as others.  His vast knowledge of the Wild Turkey has made him an invaluable asset to the Kentucky State Chapter.  Jon has served as local chapter president, State Chapter president, District Director, and State Board member.  He had been awarded the "Roger Latham Award" and inducted into the "Kentucky Turkey Hunters" Hall of Fame.  His support of the JAKES, FFA, 4-H, NASP, WITO and Wheelin' Sportsmen is second to none.  He was one of the first to help start and belong to an archery club in Kentucky.  He helped implement the KY/NWTF infrastructure and the banquet/chapter system as it exists today.  He taught many classes, in local schools, about the Wild turkey.  Jon's teaching of good conservation practices and ethical hunting parallels those that Mr. Shelley started around the turn of the 20th century. 

J.L. Hendricks was the 2008 recipient of the Shelley Nickell Memorial Award and is a charter member of the first chapter formed in KY in 1973.  His memberships include Bronze Sponsor, Regular, Wheelin’ Sportsman, & Get in the Game.  He avidly supports our outreach programs by not only enlisting memberships, but also providing memberships for those who cannot afford one.  He has helped the local chapter achieve at least 100 Jakes memberships each year.  He and his entire family are members of the NWTF. He has served as Chapter President, Vice President, Jakes Coordinator, Wheelin’ Sportsman Coordinator, and Banquet Chairperson.  During the first banquets in the mid 70’s & early 80’s he was the backbone of ticket sales for the fledgling chapter.  He sold over 250 tickets for the second banquet which was held in 1974 at Barkley Lodge.  He has worked with the LBL in Trigg County and surrounding counties by providing labor and securing funds for habitat projects.  His love of the outdoors started when he was a youth and continues today.  When he returned from the Vietnam War he was in a body cast which did not deter him from continuing his service to others.  While in this cast, he would take kids hunting by wheeling them across frozen mud flats in his wheel chair so they could hunt water fowl.  He serves as an annual guide at Fort Campbell for soldiers and veterans.  He also guides for the Jakes during the spring turkey season and provides places for them to hunt.  He was the key contact person for the first “Wounded Warrior” spring turkey hunt in Trigg County in 2008.  He stresses hunting safety and ethics to his entire family which consists of 4 boys and 16 grandchildren.  He serves as a deacon in his church.  He is the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnamese Service Medal, Vietnamese Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the Purple Heart.

I would like to thank the following people who helped me gather this information on our State Chapter. They are: David Hale, Harold Knight, Jerry Turner, Bob Smith, Joe Bland, the Nickell Family, and last (without whose help this would not have been possible) my wife, hunting and fishing partner, Pat Williams.

SHELLEY NICKELL MEMORIAL AWARD WINNERS

1978        David Deskins
1980        George Wright
1983        David Hale
1989        Wayne Clark
1997        Pat Cardin
1998        Jim Williams
1999        Mike Davis
2000        Harold Knight
2001        Donnie McDonald

2002        Joe Bland

2003        Bobby Spencer

2004        Joe Broughton

2005        Alex Lea

2007        Jonathan Davis

2008        J.L. Hendricks

 

KENTUCKY TURKEY HUNTERS “HALL OF FAME”

2002 Inductee: 

Ernie Akins was Kentucky’s initial inductee into the Turkey Hunters "Hall of Fame" and is extremely committed and dedicated to the sport of turkey hunting as evidenced in his lifetime of achievements toward turkey conservation and the promotion of the sport. As a conservation officer, he has been involved with the trap and transfer of turkeys, the ethical enforcement of conservation law and the education of both young and old wildlife enthusiasts.  His passion for the bird and the sport has also involved him with the NWTF as a charter member of the Central Kentucky Chapter and the newly formed Wild Flower Strutters Chapter of Springfield, KY.  In addition to his volunteerism, he as also signed on with the NWTF as a "Diamond Life" member.  On a national level, this inductee has been instrumental in securing headline entertainment for two national conventions providing a savings to the NWTF to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars  His friendship with the NWTF has meant more than just a financial gain though.  This individual has brought the art of turkey taxidermy into the mainstream of society and created a new opportunity for turkey hunting to be accepted by everyone.  He has been the recipient of numerous taxidermy awards and most notably, a winner of the NWTF Grand National Taxidermy competition.  Ernie has become the premier turkey taxidermist in America and his works of art can be seen nationwide in homes and offices of working class hunters and some celebrities, such as Shaquille ("Shaq") O'Neal and John Michael Montgomery.  Ernie is the first of many legendary sportsmen to follow.  He is a perfect example to set the standard for this award and future recipients.

2003 Inductees: 

Lewis Vincent, a charter member of the Three Rivers Chapter, is known both locally and nationally as one of the best call makers.  His love for the conservation of the Wild Turkey and education of our youth about our wildlife is second to none.  His calls decorate mantles and display cases of many people across the nation ranging from local friends to past presidents to Five-star generals.  He annually hosts the “JAKES Day” and opens his farm up for all to enjoy.  His efforts in the conservation of the wild turkey resulted in the then world record bird being harvested on his farm in the spring of 1985.  Lewis has taught his children and grandchildren at an early age about conservation of the wild turkey and other wildlife.  When time permitted, his family was hunting, fishing or just enjoying the outdoors.

George Wright, a charter member of the Pennyrile Strutters Chapter, is one of the main reasons Kentucky has a hearty and abundant population of Wild Turkey.  He has been involved with the restoration of the Wild Turkey in KY since the mid 70’s.  He was our first Turkey Biologist and has been active with all of the programs of the NWTF, especially the “JAKES” and WITO.  George has worked with many chapters across the state, helping to educate the public about the Wild Turkey.  During his tenure with the state, he started and completed a study on the "Gobbler Mortality Rate".  This program, closely monitored by other biologists, helped him in receiving the Henry Moseby Award.

Roland L. Burns, a charter member of the Northeast Kentucky Chapter, taught conservation of our natural resources at Morehead University, and he has lived the life of a “Conservationist”.  He supports numerous wildlife organizations with a membership in each.  The application of his intellect and extraordinary energy to wildlife issues and causes is exemplary.  He is always available for advice or information, whether it is for the local chapter or the community.  He is an annual sponsor member.  He was Kentucky's Conservation Educator of the Year in 1982 and Kentucky's Conservationist of the Year in 1991.  He served as commissioner of the Eighth District for eight years.  In 2001, he was awarded the American Tree Farmer of the Year for Kentucky.

George Torline, a charter member of Buffalo Trace and Campbell County Chapters, was very instrumental in starting several chapters in the early 90’s.  He has always been there for our youth, whether it is a “JAKES Day” or a “Shooting Event”.  George is a gifted person when it comes to working with our kids.  He continues to involve his family in the Sport of Hunting and Conservation.  His knack for shooting has given him precious memories with family and friends. George served as president, vice president, and banquet chairman of his chapters where he sponsors annually.  He has been an instructor at the "Jakes Day" and WITO events, and hosted Wheelin' Sportsman events with hunts for locally handicapped people.  He served as chair for the Kentucky NWTF Shooting Team.  He is currently a State Board member.

Harold Knight and David Hale are the main reason that the state of Kentucky has a strong and thriving turkey population today.  In 1973, they were instrumental in starting the first chapter for the NWTF in Kentucky.  They are chapter members of that chapter.  Today, they are Life and Diamond Life Sponsor members with the NWTF.  As young sportsmen yearning to have an abundance of wild turkey, they started lobbying the Fish & Wildlife of KY to start a trap and transfer program with other states in order to grow our turkey population.  Their initiative has led us from about 600 birds in the 60's to over 200,000 today, resulting in tens of thousands of hunters anticipating the frost spring mornings to hunt the bronze denizen of the forest.  They have paved the way in the turkey call manufacturing, videos, and seminars. They not only have helped to educate our youth about the wild turkey with seminars and calling contests, but have given of their time to take numerous kids hunting.  Both of these men are state, national and world championship callers.  They support not only the conservation of the wild turkey, but all wildlife.  They have Donated hundreds of thousands of dollars in support of our banquets and events.  The name of Knight and Hale is synonymous to the wild turkey.

Jonathan Davis is a current State Board member and District Director and served as president for the Kentucky State Chapter for two terms.  He is a Diamond Life member.  He was instrumental in the development of the Kentucky NWTF infrastructure and the banquet/chapter system as it exists today.  He has held numerous seminars on turkey hunting all over the state.  He has held educational classes on the wild turkey in many schools.  Jonathan organized and conducted the 2003 and several other NWTF state calling contests.  He has attended numerous NWTF national conventions.  Jonathan's true love in the hunting sport is the wild turkey and has introduced many others into the sport of turkey hunting.  His knowledge of all the calls made by the wild turkey is exceptional.  His is a recipient of the Roger Latham Award, which is the highest award that a volunteer of the NWTF can receive.  He is a connoisseur of time turkey calls and serves as an advisor in the production of the same.  He has completed his Grand Slam of the wild turkey and travels all over the U.S. to hunt and teach others about the wild turkey.

2004 Inductees:

Billy Joe Hume, a charter member of the Wilderness Trail Chapter, is a prime example when it comes to generating funds for Kentucky NWTF and local chapters.  His generosity of not only raising funds, but also taking the time to guide our youth and first-time hunters on his farm has shown his love and dedication to the sport of turkey hunting.  This truly reflects what it takes to be a conservationist, educator and mentor.  Hume's passion for turkey hunting comes from his motto, "A day during turkey season that I am unable to be in the woods listening to a turkey's gobble and watching the world wake up, is a day that I have lost in my life and will never get back."  Billy's involvement in enlisting sponsors for the national, state and local chapters is one in which he does not seek the "limelight" for a job well done.  He has been an integral part of these efforts with his "behind the scenes" involvement that has made positive things happen to keep such relationships strong and perpetual.  As a turkey conservationist, Hume manages his farm to insure that the population of wild turkey continues to grow and remain healthy.  These conservation efforts help not only the wild turkey, but other wildlife species as well.  Billy's vast experience as a turkey hunter, along with this eagerness to enrich and preserve the future of our hunting heritage, is one of the reasons that we welcome Billy Joe Hume into the "Turkey Hunters Hall of Fame" as the 2004 recipient.

Chuck Warren, a charter member of the Central Kentucky Chapter, from which 8 other local chapters have been formed, is a dedicated sportsman, educator and conservationist.  He has promoted numerous hunting camps, seminars and outings for youth who have not had the opportunities to experience the outdoors.  Warren is a 24-year employee of the KDFWR, has received numerous awards for his work in wildlife conservation and the education of our youth.  His love of the outdoors and getting the youth involved in the same is second to none in the state of Kentucky.  In 1997, Chuck started the first annual turkey hunting camp for the local kids and had a total of 73 that participated in the hunt.  He has also been involved in other wildlife hunting camps for the kids.  In 2003, Chuck and his wife Sue, established the "Youth Going Wild" program in which eleven different events in fishing and hunting were held.  Since the start of youth camps, seminars and other events, Warren has had almost 3,000 kids involved in these programs.  Warren supports the "preservation of our hunting heritage" by promoting hunting to our youth, enforcing hunting laws, and volunteering for the NWTF above and beyond the cal. of duty, and for these reasons, we welcome him as the 2004 "Kentucky Turkey Hunters Hall of Fame" recipient.

2005 Inductee:

Since chartering with the NWTF, the Bernheim Chapter and its committee, has been a leader in making it possible for the physically challenged and youth of our state to enjoy the thrill and excitement of the fair chase whether by gun, bow or camera.  The chapter has excelled in hosting Wheelin' Sportsmen events over the last six years, reaching out to hundreds of people who, without this chapter, would have never had this experience.  They have been the backbone of local and state JAKES events, whether hosting or helping with these.  The positive attitude exhibited by the Bernheim Chapter has caught the attention of other chapters who are now hosting such events.  Their hard work, determination, and time volunteered has promoted and supported the "hunting tradition".  The chapter hosted its first Wheelin' Sportsmen event six years ago, and with hard work and persistence, has championed such an event each year since.  They have become mentors to the participants in these events.  The pursuit of the elusive White Tail by the physically challenged at these events, has opened a door of opportunity that they never thought was there.  The hosting of a youth spring turkey hunt (with cameras) lets the JAKES capture the image of the "Bronze Denizen" of the forest and other wildlife.  this places the kids on a new horizon with memories that last forever.  Because of their dedication of time, love of the outdoors and admiration of the youth and physically challenged, the 2005 "Hall of Fame" inductee is the Bernheim Chapter.  Congratulations to all of you!

2006 Inductees:

The nominee for this years award is a charter member of the first chapter formed in the state, a life member, a diamond life member, has sponsored with six local chapters, served as a district director since its inception in 1995, & presently serves as a board member, the VP of the State Chapter, and the State Jakes coordinator.  He was instrumental in establishing the “Shelley Nickell Memorial Award” in 1978.  He has donated over 200 custom made knives and display stands to various chapters in KY and TN.  He has promoted youth education throughout the state and was in part responsible for initiating a “Youth Only” spring turkey season for two WMS’s in the state.  He personally signed up over 200 “Jakes” members at the KY Sheriffs Ranch in Gilbertsville.  He secured over $15,000 in habitat seed for local chapters over the last 6 years.  He has promoted turkey camps for local kids during the youth spring turkey season.  He guides for those kids who have no mentor to take them hunting and teaches them ethical hunting and sportsmanship.  He has donated several guns to be given to the kids at these and other events.  He organized and sponsored the first two “Xtreme” Jakes events held in KY.  He helped revamp the “Shelley Nickel Memorial Award” in 1997.  In the mid 70’s, he worked with the LBL in promoting “Hunting and Fishing” field days.  For these reasons and numerous others, we bestow the “Turkey Hunters Hall of Fame” award on Jim Williams.

2007 Inductees:

Mickey Craig is all about teaching the finer points of being a sportsman in all wildlife-related activities.  His biggest thrill is taking a person on their first successful wild turkey hunt, whether it's a 12-year old boy or an 81-year old man.  His attention to detail, hard work, and tenacity continue to be his strongest attributes.  His is totally committed to preserving our hunting heritage, and promoting sound conservation practices.  Mickey continually promotes hunting, trapping and fishing as a way of life to young people, and does his best to show them the recreational value of the outdoors.  His interest in turkey hunting led him to help charter the Kincaid Longspurs Chapter, where he just finished his second year as chapter president.  Over the years, he has served the chapter in many capacities and has always chaired the youth hunting committee, setting up hunts, year after year, for the future of this sport.  His is a 25-year veteran of the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife and is presently assigned as Conservation Officer for Pendleton County.  For his 25 years of service and dedication towards the protection and promotion of the wild turkey, he was selected as the 2006 Kentucky NWTF Conservation Officer.  His is a regular instructor at WITO events, chairs youth fishing, squirrel and turkey hunting, and trapping programs year after year.  The excitement rendered from calling the "Old Tom" within shotgun range keeps this inductee in in constant search for new turkey hunters!

Gregg Snyder is an avid turkey master, has scored several grand slams, and has harvested some exceptional trophies in each of the wild turkey species.  He has been tireless in his efforts to support the NWTF, as well as many local chapters in raising awareness of the benefits of being a volunteer of the NWTF.  Gregg has generously shared his hunting talents with children and handicapped alike, and is considered a man of high hunting ethics.  He has been a wonderful host to sportsmen from all across the nation and locally.  He has donated countless dollars of his own, as well at Wild Turkey products.  His support has been invaluable to the National Wild Turkey Calling Contest, and it was he who initiated Wild Turkey's Sponsorship of this event.  Gregg is mainly responsible for the sponsorship dollars given to the National Convention for the calling contests.  He has been a Sponsor member of the Wilderness Trail Chapter for eight years, and serves in the capacity of Plant Manager for the famous Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KY.

2008 Inductees:

Mary Free-Phelps was welcomed as a new member to the NWTF's ranks in 1992, and is a WITO Senior Sponsor.  After moving to Kentucky, Mary became very active in recruiting the membership of local chapters by increasing their committee’s and hosting hunts for the WITO & JAKES members.  She has been responsible for securing habitat seed that was distributed to the local chapter members as well as land owners who participated in the hunts hosted by the local chapter.  Her passion for the outdoors and the wildlife therein has taught members that not only the hunt of the wild turkey is a thrill, but also to just sit and watch: whether it is two gobblers fighting or a group of hens feeding, has been a positive influence on many people who have come to know her.  She has been diligent in providing and maintaining food plots for the wildlife especially the Wild Turkey and is very conscious of leaving the habitat in a better condition for the future which will provide for a healthier flock of wild turkey.  She has taken on the task of being the Kentucky State WITO Volunteer Coordinator for 2008 – 2009.  She publishes all upcoming events, and posts event photos in the local newspaper so the NWTF will have ample exposure. 

Joe Bland was hired in 1977 as a conservation officer for the KDFWR and was soon promoted to the rank of captain.  He worked tirelessly as a conservation officer, helping to control poaching and illegal activities against our wildlife.  His work with the research and development of the mechanical "Decoy Deer" resulted in several arrests and convictions which pioneered the implementation of the mechanical "Decoy Turkey".  While assigned to the Bowman Field office, he literally transferred hundreds of wild turkey that had been trapped for release in other parts of the state.  Joe was instrumental in the construction, impoundment, and stocking of the lake on the Bullitt County Boy Scout Camp at Crooked Creek, which is located near Bernheim Forest.  This camp and lake has provided instruction and recreating for thousands of our youth yearly.  He was instrumental in forming the Central Kentucky Chapter, in 1988, which started the membership increase for the state of Kentucky.  Numerous chapters have been formed since then which resulted in chapter and membership growth in the state that took Kentucky to the forefront as a leading state in Regular, Sponsor, and JAKES members along with funds raised for the NWTF.  Joe worked 21-1/2 years for KDFWR with tireless energy and, after retirement, was hired by the NWTF in which he served 8 years as an Regional Director.  He then became our State Chapter president, a District Director, and was elected to the NWTF National Board where he served one term.  He is a Shelley Nickell Memorial Award recipient, a KDFWR Wildlife Steward, achieved the coveted "World Slam" in turkey hunting harvesting a buck that scored a Pope & Young 142, and a Boone & Crocket buck that scored 156.  Joe has opened his farm for the youth to hunt on each year and teaches ethics, knowledge and sportsmanship to the youth.  His model farm includes 12 acres of food plots, 22 acres of warm season grasses, several ponds, 5,000 Black Walnut trees, and many other accruements for wildlife.  We welcome this father of four, grandfather of seven, husband and veteran of the Armed Forces to the Kentucky Turkey Hunters Hall of Fame.

Jim Williams, Chapter Historian, District Director
PO Box 331, 117 East Dale Street, Eddyville, KY 42038
Phone (270) 388-9406