A present-day view inside the original 4777 foot Sand Patch Tunnel, built by the Pittsburgh and Connellsville (P&C) RR during 1854-1871. Increased train volume, clearance requirements, unstable ground, and ventilation problems forced its closure in 1917, following the opening of the new route in 1913. Now abandoned for 90 years, both east and west portals have collapsed and the tunnel flooded 5-10' deep. Inside, support timbers and stone and brick linings remain, and at the surface a brick ventilation shaft is accessible west of the road.

A present-day view inside the original 4777 foot Sand Patch Tunnel, built by the Pittsburgh and Connellsville (P&C) RR during 1854-1871. Increased train volume, clearance requirements, unstable ground, and ventilation problems forced its closure in 1917, following the opening of the new route in 1913. Now abandoned for 90 years, both east and west portals have collapsed and the tunnel flooded 5-10' deep. Inside, support timbers and stone and brick linings remain, and at the surface a brick ventilation shaft is accessible west of the road.