The inaugural hunt, originally called the Pickaway County Disabled Veteran’s Hunt, was held on October 9–10, 2010, at Deer Creek State Park. That first weekend brought together a small but mighty group: ten disabled veterans, enthusiastic volunteers, a Friday evening meal, and a shooting contest at the Deer Creek Archery Range. One deer was harvested, and a tradition was born.
By the second year, the event expanded to two afternoon hunts on the Gabriel Farm during the second weekend of October. The beautifully decorated barn there offered space for meals, programming, and heartfelt camaraderie. In 2014, the event moved to the fourth weekend of October, and since then, hunting opportunities have grown to include additional sites:
- Chris Mullins’ Farm (2016)
- Dave Dumm Farm (2017)
- Tom Barton Farm and Appalachia Ohio Alliance Property (both added in 2022)
Saturday morning begins with sign-in from 11:30 a.m. to noon, followed by lunch and introductions with guides. Hunters then head to the archery range for practice and a friendly shooting competition. A pre-hunt meeting covers safety, updates, blind assignments, and transportation. The afternoon hunt kicks off as participants are escorted to pre-set blinds, returning after dark for dinner and a special evening program.
The Saturday evening program includes:
- Awards for marksmanship and first deer harvested
- Two free buck mounts donated by local taxidermists
- Mount presentations from the previous year
- Thank-you recognitions and door prizes
Sunday’s activities mirror Saturday’s, with hunters heading out around 2:00 p.m., followed by another evening of food and celebration. Additional awards are presented for the largest buck and largest doe, and the upcoming Deer Creek Hunt is previewed.
That Deer Creek hunt takes place on the second Saturday of November at the Horseman’s Staging Area. Check-in begins at 6:00 a.m., followed by blind assignments and transportation by 6:45. The Circleville Elks Lodge #77 generously provides breakfast and lunch. Awards are presented midday, but there is no evening meal at this event.
What started with ten participants has now grown to over 50 veterans annually, with increasing accessibility and new hunting locations each year. The coordinator remains committed to accommodating veterans of all abilities.
This event would not be possible without an extraordinary team of over 100 volunteers, countless donors, and community support. Contributions have included:
- Permanent blinds built by Logan Elm High School students
- Meals prepared by Pickaway-Ross Vocational Foods students
- Custom award plaques donated by a local friend
- An Eagle Scout blind-building project
- Individuals or Groups preparing food or desserts
- Financial Assistance
2025 Disabled Veterans Hunt 