The culture of The Blues

I'm exploring the idea that Birmingham City FC, together with its supporters, past and present, holds a particular culture and identity, unique amongst other West Midland football clubs, not particularly "fashionable" is often suggested (until now maybe).

I first encountered BCFC as a result of the 1968 FA Cup semi-final, at that time as a 10-year-old, often taken to West Brom, Wolves and Villa Park by various family members and friends. By 1970, I realised that WBA were boring, I didn't like the Wolves colours and likewise the Villa.

St Andrews was my destination in October 1970, 12 years old and alone, hadn't a clue where I was going, I never looked back and to this day I wonder why.

My hypothesis; is that BCFC, together with its history, its supporters, past and present, and its particular 'brand' holds an identifiable and unique sub-culture with many facets, including its anthem, its working-class acknowledged identity, the embracing of people from diverse origins and backgrounds, and perhaps more up to date, the recognition of the club as a distinctive catalyst for music, drama and the wider arts, clothing fashion etc.

This recognition is not an overnight identity but one that has developed over the past 150 years.

I'm hoping someone will feedback on these long-held thoughts, and maybe answer the question, why do we support (endure some might say) the Blues?