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9.14.2015

Gallitzin Tunnels near Altoona, PA

On our way to visiting Lakemont Park, home to the world's oldest roller coaster, Leap the Dips, and the awesome Skyliner coaster, we stopped by some of the rail heritage spots located on the other side of Altoona and in nearby Gallitzin. This has always been a favorite day trip destination for us. Here is the restored 1942 Pennsylvania Railroad Caboose that sits at the Gallitzin Tunnels
 This old caboose is pretty awesome and it gives a great glimpse into the life of an old rail worker.

The oldest tunnel dates back to 1854, making it one of the oldest rail tunnels in the country. The Gallitzin tunnels were the subject of several failed plots by the Confederates during the Civil War, and Nazi Germany during World War II. 
Old Glory and the flag of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is fitting to have a Pennsylvania flag at this location for the initial project was the result of a public partnership between the state and the private railroads. The labor that built the initial tunnels, as with most of the east coast railroads, this dangerous project, was undertaken by Irish workers just as the rail projects on the west coast were done by Chinese immigrant workers.
Our next stop will be at Horseshoe Curve!

Here is the location of the Gallitzin Tunnels:

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