Freeport man discovers massive beehive while turkey hunting

Dave Ellis of Freeport has gained many friendships in recent years by growing and providing vegetables for senior citizens in Harrison County at no cost.

Ellis also searches his 30-acre property for spring turkeys. While hunting for turkeys, he made an interesting discovery: a large beehive formed on a fencepost.

He shared the discovery May 13 and said he also shared it with the Harrison County bee agent. Both men agreed the hive was the largest either had seen. They also said it was the largest in the county.

“This is the largest swarm that I have ever seen,” Ellis said. “Given the size of the hive, I believe that it would take at least four hive bodies to accommodate them. I have been caring for hives ever since I learned how to run, because a good beekeeper must have a fast pair of tennis shoes. Sometimes you may have to run away from the hives to avoid being stung.

“Bees are hard to keep alive today with all the pesticides that are being used,” Ellis said. “That is why I am always out checking on things. Also, when I’m out and about the property, I always have my trusty, good friend and hound dog that I have named Rodeo Clown by my side.”

Along with taking care of bees, Ellis has consistently grown vegetables. Once the first vegetables appear, he takes them to the Senior Center in Cadiz and distributes them to seniors at no cost. He repeats the effort two more times during the growing season.

Tammy Verhovec, executive director of the Senior Center, said Ellis has made a difference at the center.

“We love the Mountain Man Dave Ellis here at the center,” Verhovec said. “He is a wonderful person. He is a huge asset to the center. He brings vegetables here, and we advertise on Facebook the day that he will be here. Everyone comes to the center on those days.”

“He never wants anything for the growing and the distribution of the produce,” Verhovec said. “He even delivers the produce to those who could not make it to the center on the day he is here. Whenever we see him, he is always pleasant and kind.

“In addition, during the Christmas holiday, he delivers a version of the Charlie Brown Christmas tree,” Verhovec said. “He brings one for each of the seniors.”

Ellis said he provides at least 30 trees for seniors at the center. He said the trees are mostly branchless, and he makes sure there are enough for all of the seniors at the facility.

“I am looking forward to seeing all of my friends at the Senior Center once again this year,” Ellis said. “It is rewarding to be able to do something for someone who needs and appreciates the gesture.”

Ellis moved to Freeport about 20 years ago. He previously lived in Tennessee before moving to Harrison County to farm.