Tucked away in the mountains of West Virginia are miles and miles of abandoned railroad track. Some of it has been converted to rail trail to be enjoyed by hikers, bikers, and equestrians. But some of it, like the Board Tree Tunnel on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad’s main line between Baltimore, Maryland and Wheeling, West Virginia, just lies forgotten in the forest.

The Board Tree Tunnel, located outside of Littleton, West Virginia in Wetzel County, was one of the first major railroad tunnels in American history.
Historic American Engineering Record / Library of Congress
At an impressive half-mile in length (2,350 feet), it was quite a feat of engineering.
Historic American Engineering Record / Library of Congress
Three engineers deserve credit for the design and excecution of this rail line: Benjamin Latrobe, Wendell Bollman, and Albert Fink.
Inside, the Board Tree Tunnel is supported by some impressively unique iron arching, similar to that found in the Kingwood Tunnel located nearby along the same rail line.
Historic American Engineering Record / Library of Congress

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The tunnel was built between 1851 and 1858, but not without cost, paid in money and in life.
Historic American Engineering Record / Library of Congress
In the building of the Board Tree Tunnel and the Kingwood Tunnel, at least 30 lives were lost and over 300 injuries were reported.
Historic American Engineering Record / Library of Congress
Sadly, this type of tragedy was all too common a story throughout West Virginia as the railroad was built.
Historic American Engineering Record / Library of Congress
No one uses the Board Tree tunnel anymore, and few remember its significance...
Historic American Engineering Record / Library of Congress
... or the high cost at which it was built.

Are you fascinated by the history of trains and railroads? You’re not alone, and West Virginia has plenty of such history and relics for you to investigate. For example, here’s some more train history for you: do you know about the train tunnel dug by legendary John Henry? And did you know you could stay in a railroad-themed bed and breakfast right along the Coal Heritage Trail?

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