Although the Pequabuck Tunnel aka Terryville Tunnel, nicknamed “the mile-long tunnel” technically measures in at under a mile at 3,580 feet long (0.68 miles), it is considered the state’s longest tunnel. Built during the early 1900s, in order to help correct the steep grade that made it especially difficult to haul freight through the hilly terrain, the tunnel has a fascinating history that gives a bit of insight into the railroad industry during the 20th century.

Construction began in Plymouth in 1906. The tunnel was built underneath a family farm known as Sylvan Hill, which was owned by Charles Allen. Instead of purchasing the land, a right of way was acquired that allowed the tunnel to be dug directly beneath the Allen farm and pond.
facebook/terryville tunnel-aka-pequabuck tunnel
It took the help of 200 workers to create the tunnel. This involved cutting through the rough rock ledges to make the tunnel. Most of this had to completed by hand. The construction workers lived in small buildings that were built outside the tunnel especially for the workers to live in throughout the completion of the project.
facebook/terryville tunnel-aka-pequabuck tunnel
Due to the instability of the financial market, construction on the tunnel came to a halt in 1907. Shortly after construction resumed in 1908, heavy rain caused a collapse of the tunnel.
facebook/terryville tunnel-aka-pequabuck tunnel

Related Stories

Visit These Fascinating Prison Ruins In Connecticut For An Adventure Into The Past

Visit These Fascinating Prison Ruins In Connecticut For An Adventure Into The Past

 The Original New England Lobster Roll Was Invented In 1920s Connecticut

The Original New England Lobster Roll Was Invented In 1920s Connecticut

 You Won't Even Recognize Connecticut When You Watch This Historical Footage From The 1940s

You Won't Even Recognize Connecticut When You Watch This Historical Footage From The 1940s
The tunnel was finally completed in 1910 and the first passenger train began service through the tunnel on January 27, 1911. Pequabuck (Terryville) Station was located near the east portal of the tunnel.
facebook/terryville tunnel-aka-pequabuck tunnel
Through service ended in 1925, but passenger service continued through the tunnel up until 1962.
facebook/terryville tunnel-aka-pequabuck tunnel
These days, the tunnel is used by the Pan Am Southern freight service. There are plans being discussed to renovate the tunnel with a possibility of beginning passenger service again in the future.
facebook/terryville tunnel-aka-pequabuck tunnel

There are many stories about the construction of the Pequabuck Tunnel. These range from fascinating finds of gems during the tunnel construction to stories about hauntings. One thing is sure, this a tunnel that continues to intrigue the imagination.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Connecticut

Featured Addresses
M283+25 Plymouth, CT, USA