Elvis, Von & Buddy Manasco, established ELM-HAT in 2001. A prominent area landowner by the name of Jeanette Torbert was contacted about the possibility of leasing some of her property. An agreement was made thus the club was born. The next task was to name this new club. Not wanting to use his name, Elvis decided to use his initials, ELM, but this wasn’t enough. In honor of the late Mr. Henry Allen Torbert,(HAT) Mrs. Jeanette & family, the club was co-named giving birth to ELM-HAT.
In it’s first year, the club consisted of 1,748 acres, 17 members and a small campground. Many deer were taken and even more friendships made. News got out fast about this club and the morals of it’s president. It was not long until Elvis realized the need for an ethical hunting club that was not only hunter friendly but also “family friendly”. He also realized this was the beginning of something that would carry on for many years.
The second year ELM-HAT grew to 4,040 acres and 30 members. Deer and turkey harvests increased dramatically and again, news spread like wild fire. Due to the desires of modern hunters for a place of fellowship, game harvest and enjoyment all in a family environment, our club grew by leaps and bounds. Just keeping up with the phone requests for information about the club and future openings was a job in itself. This left little time to hunt but, Elvis and Von didn’t mind; they knew they were in this for the club for a very long time.
Due to the dedication of many determined members led by a strong president, ELM, and very supportive landowners, HAT, the club continued to grow into the third year. Elvis acquired property for an additional campground with all of the comforts of home. He along with Mrs. Von had the vision of a camp like none other. The club jumped to 5,320 acres and 50 members with 109 deer taken (49 bucks, 60 does). The club had 70 established food plots and this was just the beginning to something no one could dream of.
2005-2006 was the fourth year for ELM-HAT. Prior to the beginning of the season, a lot of hard working, determined members set a goal to take the second camp from ordinary to state of the art. With the addition of a septic system, water, garbage and plans for a skinning facility, some have nicknamed the site “Manasco Park”. We grew to 7,200 acres, 56 members and 90 food plots. Deer harvest increased to 116 (61 bucks, 55 does).
ELM-HAT is continuously growing in land size as well as family oriented, dependable members. Elvis is dedicated to making sure each member and his family feels welcome, safe and secure. He has an unbelievable report with all of the landowners and the community. Elvis and Mrs. Von have worked diligently to have an area that everyone can be proud of. He holds several outings to entertain members & their families as well as landowners and members of the community with more food than the law allows, lots of fun and many laughs. We have an indoor area for eating and fellowship. Outside is an area for horseshoes and basketball for the young, or young at heart. Our club not only offers hunting but fishing and other out door recreation to each member and family. We want everyone happy at ELM-HAT.
Much appreciation goes out to Mr. Elvis, Mrs. Von and Buddy for their vision and heart, for working so hard to give us a place to go. Even more thanks out to each landowner that still believes in old fashion comradery and the love for the outdoors.
Without Elvis & Mrs. Jeanette there would not be an ELM-HAT.
THANK YOU!