Elmer Bird

Elmer Bird was born in Putnam County, WV.

Elmer Bird married Beulah Edwards.

Elmer Bird began working for Union Carbide in South Charleston. That same year, he started playing banjo with Eck Gibson and the Mountaineer Ramblers.

Elmer Bird retired from Union Carbide and began his solo music career.

Elmer Bird met Grammy winner John Hartford at the Skyline Bluegrass Festival in Ronceverte, WV, an encounter that changed the course of his career.

The West Virginia Division of Culture & History presented Elmer Bird with the Vandalia Award, West Virginia's highest folklife honor.

Elmer Bird died at his home near Hurricane, WV.