Sand Patch Tunnel (Sand Patch, PA)
Sand Patch Tunnel (1871-1917)
Sand Patch, Pennsylvania
The original 4777-foot Sand Patch Tunnel was constructed under contract by the Pittsburgh and Connellsville Railroad beginning May 1854. Tunnel construction was suspended three times over the next 17 years and finally completed April 1871. Soft shale was encountered in much of the bore, requiring timber arching for approximately 2200 feet (as pictured here) plus stone and brick lining at the portals. 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 nearly 100 years, both east and west portals have collapsed and the tunnel flooded 5-10 feet deep. Inside, support timbers and stone and brick linings remain, and at the surface a brick ventilation shaft is still standing.
Note: This text and accompanying photos are the copyright of Christopher Muller and may not be reproduced in whole or in part on any website, message board, or other medium.
Read MoreSand Patch, Pennsylvania
The original 4777-foot Sand Patch Tunnel was constructed under contract by the Pittsburgh and Connellsville Railroad beginning May 1854. Tunnel construction was suspended three times over the next 17 years and finally completed April 1871. Soft shale was encountered in much of the bore, requiring timber arching for approximately 2200 feet (as pictured here) plus stone and brick lining at the portals. 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 nearly 100 years, both east and west portals have collapsed and the tunnel flooded 5-10 feet deep. Inside, support timbers and stone and brick linings remain, and at the surface a brick ventilation shaft is still standing.
Note: This text and accompanying photos are the copyright of Christopher Muller and may not be reproduced in whole or in part on any website, message board, or other medium.
