Mystery Lurks Inside Wheeling’s Tunnel Green

Witnesses Say Shadowy Figure Vanishes When Approached

Wheeling's Hempfield Railroad Tunnel, or Tunnel Green, has presented numerous ghost sightings in its long history.

Built in 1857 by the Hempfield Railroad, it was purchased by the B&O Railroad and rebuilt between 1904 and 1905. It is believed by some that it was constructed over the old Hempfield Cemetery, where bodies were left despite the tunnel being built.

A death is also rumored to have occurred inside the tunnel in the early 1990s. It's believed a young man was struck by a passing train.

Sightings of a shadow figure have been reported by walkers and runners who utilize the Heritage Trail which runs through the tunnel. The figure has been seen standing at the opposite end of the tunnel, and it disappears as the witness approaches it.

Shadows also have been spotted along the tunnel walls, inside. Muffled voices echo at times in the tunnel.

Outside of paranormal sightings, the tunnel itself is a creepy, old structure. Walking through it, a passerby, even mid-day, will face little light, aside from what enters near the tunnel's two entrances and the low beams of overhead lamps It's damp, as well.

The tunnel features a few cutouts within its walls, built to service pedestrians in the old days, so they could step within and avoid passing locomotives. From afar, they appear as slim, dark crevices with unknown endings, prompting most to consider the thought that someone may be inside, eager to pop out.

For most, it's a cool, local relic and interesting facility to see while on a routine jog. For others, it's a curious element of history with a possible dark side.