The Historic Gallitzin Tunnels
by Gene Walls
Title
The Historic Gallitzin Tunnels
Artist
Gene Walls
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
The first Gallitzin Rail Road Tunnel was originally constructed in 1849 and completed in 1854. The Summit Tunnel, as it was known then, was bored by a hearty cadre of 400 Irish immigrants, from County Cork. This 3600 foot Allegheny Mountain passage completed the final section of the The Pennsylvania Mainline Railroad. A second tunnel was added in 1904, providing four tracks, from eastern Pennsylvania to Pittsburgh, PA.
During the American Civil War, this passageway was essential for transportation of Union soldiers, their supplies and materials. The tunnel was so crucial to the Union war effort that Confederate troops were sent to destroy or sabotage the tunnel. Fortunately, the plot was foiled and rail service was never interrupted.
Today, only one dual track tunnel is still in daily use by its current owner, Norfolk Southern Railway. A very accurate posted train schedule allowed this shot to be captured, complete with a speeding NS train exiting the historic tunnel.
The tunnels and adjacent museum are located at the junction of Jackson and Covenent streets, in Gallitzin, Pennsylvania. This is just a short drive south west of Altoona, PA.
This photo was taken handheld on September 8th, 2013, with a Canon EOS 5D camera, through a Canon EF 28-70mm f/2.8L lens at the 39mm focal length. The shutter speed was 1/60th sec. at f/7.1, ISO 100.
© 2013 Gene Walls
All copyright and reproduction rights are retained by the artist. Artwork may not be reproduced or altered by any process without the express written permission of the artist. This includes my image and the 100% original text that describes the work. A copyright watermark is embedded within the image to guarantee successful prosecution, in the event of any violation.
Uploaded
September 10th, 2013
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Viewed 246 Times - Last Visitor from Wilmington, DE on 03/07/2024 at 7:44 AM
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Comments (4)
Eti Reid
THere is something very special in trains/tunnels! And you caught it through the wild flowers:) f.v.tw
Gene Walls replied:
Thanks, Eti! Yes, I went a bit out of my way to catch this one, because of its historical importance. I'm going to a great train museum next month. Kindest wishes, Gene