Hoosac Tunnel

The Hoosac Tunnel cuts through the Hoosac Mountain Range for about 7.6 km, connecting North Adams with Florida in western Massachusetts. The structure was built using multiple shafts and includes ventilation systems to circulate air through the underground passage.

Work on the tunnel started in 1851 and took about 24 years to finish, with crews using new blasting methods during excavation. The project was extremely hazardous and resulted in significant loss of life during construction.

The tunnel earned recognition as a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1975 because it pioneered the use of nitroglycerin and electric blasting caps in American tunnel construction. These innovations transformed how underground projects were built across the country.

The east entrance is located where Whitcomb Hill Road and River Road meet in Florida, with the opening visible about half a mile to the northwest of that intersection. Visitors can view the tunnel opening from outside, but note that entering the active tunnel is not permitted.

A central shaft located in the tunnel's middle contains original ventilation fans that pump air through the long underground system during operation. A memorial marker at this spot honors 13 miners who died in an explosion during excavation work in 1867.

Location: Florida

Location: North Adams

Inception: 1870s

Official opening: 1876

Length: 7,645 m

GPS coordinates: 42.67500,-73.04528

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:23