Charles Blevins

Charles Blevins was a Music of [West Virginia |West Virginia folk music] artist and the owner of Red Robin Inn, in Borderland, West Virginia.

Career

Blevins began his career in coal mining for 16 years, following in the footsteps of generations before him who had worked for the Borderland Coal Corporation in Mingo County, West Virginia. He later served in the US Navy during World War II and was stationed aboard the battleship, USS Alabama.

Red Robin Inn

After retiring, Blevins opened the Red Robin Inn with his father in 1953 in Borderland, West Virginia. He began his music career performing at the inn, often accompanied by his collection of banjos. His musical journey was deeply inspired by his mother and grandmother, who played various instruments. The tavern closed in 1993 when construction of U.S. Route 119 required the land it occupied. In its memory, a museum called Red Robin Plateau was established across the Tug Fork in Pike County, Kentucky.

Film

Blevins appeared in the West Virginia Public Broadcasting documentary Mountaineer, alongside Denise Giardina and Clyde Case. The film explores West Virginia culture and folklore.

Personal life

Blevins is the brother-in-law of Burl Stafford.