Harpers Ferry in Jefferson County, West Virginia — The American South (Appalachia)
Water Tunnels
Photographed By Craig Swain, September 22, 2007
1. Water Tunnels Marker
Tunnels increased power. Here water from the inner basin, located off to your right, flowed through a series of underground passages. With openings smaller at the downstream end - like a nozzle on a garden hose - these tunnels increased the water's flow. This increased pressure created more waterpower for the factories.As you continue along the trail, look for evidence of the river wall and the head gates - other features of this elaborate waterpower system, first built around 1848.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1848.
Location. 39° 19.258′ N, 77° 44.076′ W. Marker is in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, in Jefferson County. Marker can be reached from Shenandoah Street (Business U.S. 340), on the right when traveling east. Located on Virginius Island in Harpers Ferry National Historic Site. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Harpers Ferry WV 25425, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Cotton Mill (within shouting distance of this marker); Shenandoah Canal (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); River Wall
this page online
More about this marker. Illustrations on the marker show the locations of the mills and associated hydraulic complex.
Photographed By Craig Swain, September 22, 2007
2. Water Tunnels Marker
The marker overlooks one of the water chambers.
Photographed By Craig Swain, September 22, 2007
3. Water Flowed In
The water flowed through the underground tunnels through the archways of the chamber.
Photographed By Craig Swain, September 22, 2007
4. The Chamber
The water was controlled through these chambers.
Photographed By Craig Swain, September 22, 2007
5. Looking Through the Chamber
As stated on the marker the archway on the far side is smaller than the upstream side.
Photographed By Craig Swain, September 22, 2007
6. Branch of the Water Tunnel
A side branch of the water tunnel led to another mill.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on May 13, 2009, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia. This page has been viewed 735 times since then and 43 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on May 13, 2009, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia.
