This Clay County native was a highly respected fiddler known for his traditional style. He learned music from his family, especially his grandmother, Rosie, and later from fiddler French Carpenter. Douglas’s passion for fiddling grew after hearing Ed Haley play, and he spent years mastering traditional tunes.

After serving in World War II, Douglas returned to Clay County and worked construction while continuing to fiddle. He developed a unique style, blending "crooked" time signatures and distinct bowing techniques. In the 1960s and 70s, he became a key figure in the old-time music revival, performing at festivals and teaching workshops. He recorded six albums and received the Vandalia Award, the state's highest folklife honor, in 1992 for his work preserving West Virginia's music.

Douglas influenced many musicians, including Kim Johnson, whose band later recorded an album based on his music. He believed music expressed life’s emotions, and his performances brought people close to "heaven on this earth."