37 Facts About Raymond Robinson

Early Life and Tragic Accident

Raymond Robinson's story begins with a childhood marked by a life-changing event. His early years were typical until one fateful day.

1. Raymond Theodore Robinson was born on October 29, 1910, in a small town near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
2. At the age of eight, Robinson suffered a severe electrical shock while climbing a pole near the Morado Bridge to look at a bird's nest.
3. The pole carried both 1,200 and 22,000 volts of electricity, resulting in catastrophic injuries.
4. Another boy had died less than a year earlier from a similar incident on the same bridge, making Robinson's accident even more tragic.

Injuries and Recovery

The accident left Robinson with severe disfigurements, but his resilience shone through during his recovery.

5. Robinson lost his eyes, nose, and right arm due to the electrical shock.
6. His face was severely disfigured, leading to the nickname "Green Man" because of the greenish hue of his skin from the electrical burns.
7. Despite doctors' expectations, Robinson survived the accident, though his recovery was long and arduous.
8. He spent much of his life at home with relatives, where he made doormats, wallets, and belts to sell, showcasing his resourcefulness and determination.

Nighttime Walks and Local Legend

Robinson's nighttime walks turned him into a local legend, with stories about him spreading throughout western Pennsylvania.

9. Due to his appearance, Robinson rarely ventured out during the day, opting for long walks at night on a quiet stretch of State Route 351.
10. These nighttime walks allowed him to feel independent and connect with the world around him, albeit in a limited manner.
11. His nocturnal outings made him a figure of urban legend, with locals driving along his road in hopes of meeting the "Green Man" or "Charlie No-Face."
12. Many were disappointed when they didn't see him, but the tales about him were passed on through generations, often with embellishments.

Encounters with Locals

Robinson's interactions with locals varied, ranging from friendly exchanges to cruel encounters.

13. Groups of locals regularly gathered to search for Robinson during his nighttime walks.
14. He usually hid from curious neighbors but would sometimes exchange a short conversation or a photograph for beer or cigarettes.
15. Some encounters were friendly, while others were cruel, but none deterred Robinson from his nightly walks.
16. Robinson was struck by cars more than once during his nighttime walks, yet he continued until the last years of his life.

Later Life and Death

Robinson's later years were spent away from the public eye, but his legacy lived on.

17. In his final years, Robinson ended his late-night walks and retired to the Beaver County Geriatric Center.
18. He passed away on June 11, 1985, at the age of 74, marking the end of an era for the local legend.
19. His death did not diminish his legacy, as his story continued to captivate those who heard it.

Legacy and Urban Legend

Robinson's story has been passed down through generations, often overshadowed by the ghost story that grew out of it.

20. The urban legend surrounding Robinson often depicted him as hiding in an abandoned house and having a green face due to the electrical shock.
21. These details are not supported by historical records; the real Robinson was a man who went for walks at night to feel connected to the world.
22. Filmmaker Tisha York planned to direct a film based on the Green Man urban legend, titled Route 351, but the project remains on hold as of 2024.
23. Public perception of Robinson varied widely, with some seeing him as a ghostly figure and others knowing him as a real person liked by his family and neighbors.

Community Interaction and Support

Despite his disfigurement, Robinson maintained connections with his community in various ways.

24. Many locals, especially teenagers, would drive out to find Robinson and give him cigarettes, reflecting the community's efforts to connect with him.
25. His family provided significant support throughout his life, helping him make doormats, wallets, and belts to sell.
26. The handmade crafts were not only a source of income but also a testament to his resourcefulness and creativity.
27. Robinson's nighttime walks became a routine part of his life, navigating through the quiet roads of State Route 351 with a walking stick.

Psychological and Social Impact

Robinson's story highlights the psychological and social challenges he faced, as well as his remarkable resilience.

28. The psychological impact of Robinson's injuries cannot be overstated, as he faced immense challenges in his daily life.
29. Social isolation was a significant challenge, leading him to go out at night when he felt more comfortable.
30. Despite these challenges, Robinson continued to engage with his community in various ways, demonstrating remarkable resilience.
31. His story has symbolic significance, representing the human spirit's ability to endure despite overwhelming adversity.

Historical Records and Preservation

Understanding Robinson's story within its historical context is crucial for preserving his legacy.

32. Historical records provide a glimpse into Robinson's life but also highlight the gaps in our understanding.
33. The urban legend surrounding him often distorted his real history, making it essential to rely on verified sources.
34. Community support was essential for Robinson's well-being, with locals showing kindness by bringing him cigarettes or engaging in conversations.
35. Despite his physical limitations, Robinson demonstrated remarkable personal growth, continuing to engage with his community and contribute to society through his handmade crafts.

Enduring Impact

Robinson's legacy continues to inspire new generations, ensuring his story remains an integral part of our collective history.

36. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding towards those who may be different from us.
37. Efforts to document his life and legacy ensure that his story remains a part of our collective history, reflecting the power of human resilience.

Raymond Robinson's Enduring Legacy

Raymond Robinson, known as the "Green Man," lived a life marked by resilience and determination. Despite a horrific accident that left him severely disfigured, he found ways to connect with his community and maintain a sense of independence. His nighttime walks along State Route 351 turned him into a local legend, blending reality with urban myth. Robinson's story, often overshadowed by ghostly tales, serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to endure adversity. His legacy continues to inspire empathy and understanding towards those who are different. The real Raymond Robinson, not just the legend, remains a symbol of strength and perseverance. His life and the myths surrounding him will be remembered for generations, highlighting the importance of kindness and community support.