With extensive history and unique attractions, Virginia never fails to impress. For example, did you realize the Old Dominion was once the home to one of the world's largest train tunnels? The Blue Ridge Tunnel was completed in 1858 and was considered to be a marvel of engineering. Such progress came with a price, though, and unfortunately several workers lost their lives working on this landmark. While the train tunnel has long been discontinued, there is currently a renovation underway that will eventually allow visitors to walk or bike through the passageway.
The Blue Ridge Tunnel, also known as the Crozet Tunnel, was built along with the Blue Ridge Railway in the 1850s. This was one of four tunnels constructed by Claudius Crozet (after whom the town is named) that would go through the mountains at Rockfish Gap.
The tunnel was constructed by slaves and Irish immigrants, who dug from both ends until they eventually met in the middle. Digging was done completely by hand, as dynamite had not been integrated as a technique yet.
Labor conditions were brutal, and the workers put in three shifts a day for six days a week until the bridge was completed. Many lost their lives under the hazardous work setting and thus, the tunnel is believed to carry a haunted energy.
When the tunnel was finally completed in 1858, it measured 4,273 feet and was among the longest tunnels in the world.
The Blue Ridge Tunnel was in used until 1944, when a larger tunnel was put in place parallel to the original to accommodate freight trains. The original tunnel still exists today and is considered a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
Today, the Claudius Crozet Blue Ridge Tunnel Foundation has started a renovation project that will create a walking and bicycle path through the original tunnel.
Phase two of the restoration project will involve hiring contractors to store the brickwork around the tunnel and add proper drainage on either side of the pathway.
Soon, visitors will be able to walk through the original tunnel and marvel at this engineering feat. If legend proves to, you might even encounter a haunted spirit!
For more information about the Blue Ridge Tunnel Greenway, be sure to visit the official websites for updates and progress reports by clicking here. What are your thoughts on this fascinating new rail trail? Be sure to share with us!
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