1902
124 years ago
OpeningUnited States
Great Northern Railway Cascade Tunnel Opens
Great Northern Railway
Stevens Pass
May 18, 1902
Summary
The Great Northern Railway opened its first Cascade Tunnel, shortening the route over Stevens Pass.
Full Story
On May 18, 1902, the Great Northern Railway inaugurated its 2.6-mile Cascade Tunnel beneath Stevens Pass in Washington state. Designed by engineer John F. Stevens, the bore replaced a steep switchback route and allowed heavier trains to cross the Cascades without helper locomotives. The tunnel used innovative ventilation and electric lighting for the era. It dramatically improved reliability on the northern transcontinental route and remained in service until a longer replacement tunnel opened in 1929.
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Quick Facts
- Date
- May 18, 1902
- Event Type
- Opening
- Country
- United States
- Years Ago
- 124
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