The famous Hoosac Tunnel is located in western Massachusetts. Guilford's ex-Boston & Maine Fitchburg line now runs through it on the way to New York state. The area is deep within green mountains, with a flowing river that attracts brave kyackers. At the time of completion in 1877, the Hoosac was the longest tunnel in the world. Even today, it is the longest east of the Mississippi River. Many lives were lost during its construction, and through the years people have reported eerie goings on at Hoosac. Eastern portal sometimes emits a ghostly fog. It is just damp air, but the smell and feeling of that air can be quite eerie indeed!
The B&M electrified the line through Hoosac in order to lower the fumes train crews and passengers had to endure during the steam era. Electric locomotives would help the trains from East Portal through to North Adams. Some signs of the system are still around, such as catenary towers.
East Portal 2003
Steam engine exiting East Portal (postcard view)
Similar postcard views of Hoosac Tunnel Station
West Portal under construction
(stereo view)
The commemorative plaque that was stolen from the East Portal in 2004
(click to enlarge)
East Portal under construction (stereo view)
Looking out West Portal during construction
(stereo view)
Central Shaft during construction
(stereo view)
This page was last updated on: November 3, 2009
HOOSAC TUNNEL station sign, sold at auction October 2005
West Portal under construction
(stereo view)
West Portal under construction
(stereo view)
Central Shaft
(stereo view)
East Portal
(postcard view)
Bird's eye view of East Portal under construction (postcard view)
EAST PORTAL tower sign, which I purchased at auction April 2006
These remains are at the site of the first attempt to bore the east portal. (2006)
West Portal with tower
Steam engine at West Portal
(stereo view)
(postcard view)
Real-photo-postcard view of the East Portal area, showing a water tower and control tower.
