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Revision as of 21:47, 13 January 2011 by B137 (talk | contribs)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)Sand Patch Grade is a ~100 mile length of railroad track known for it's steep grades and curves through the Allegheny Mountains of Pennsylvania and Maryland. The line is part of the Keystone Subdivision, a main line operated by CSX Transportation, formerly Conrail. The line was originally owned by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad (B & O), later Chessie System. A well known landmark along Sand Patch Grade is the 4,475 foot Sand Patch Tunnel, which was constructed in the mid 1800's. Originally one track, the tunnel was expanded to two tracks in 1914. The tunnels used vertical ventilation shafts with fires in them to circulate air. The original tunnel was abandon in 1917 and is now flooded and collapsed in places. Dropping over 1000 feet in about 20 miles, Sand Patch Grade is one of the steepest railroad grades on the East Coast. In 2001, the 'SA' Tower, one of the last manned interlocking towers was decommissioned and demolished. Mance, Pennsylvania, along the Sand Patch Grade is a popular spot for railfans and photographers due to the horseshoe curve located there, as well as the scenic backdrop provided by the old general store and tree farm. Also to watch the trains struggle up the steep grade, which is as much as two percent.
References
- http://www.ihavideo.com/HIedscorn1.html
- http://www.steamphotos.com/Railroad-Photos/Abandoned-Railroad-Tunnels/3405984_hFJN7#201168208_Wj4CH
- http://www.meyersdalepa.org/railroad/sandpatch.html
- http://www.trainzproroutes.org/sandpatch.html