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The John Henry Legend
Tradition names the Big Bend Tunnel, near Talcott, West Virginia (WV), as the location where the legendary John Henry won a race against a steam-powered drill.  Although John Henry has become a folk hero of worldwide fame, there is much evidence indicating that a man named  John Henry actually existed and that he did win a race at Big Bend Tunnel against a drilling machine during the construction of the tunnel during the 1870's.
 
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Great Bend Tunnel, at Talcott, West Virginia
Great Big Bend Tunnel at Talcott, WV - where the legendary John Henry drove steel - July 27, 2000.

CSX train emerges from Big Bend Tunnel
CSX train emerges from Big Bend Tunnel at Talcott, WV, the newer tunnel that replaced Great Bend Tunnel - July 27, 2000.

John Henry statue, near Talcott, West Virginia (WV)
Statue of John Henry, along Route 3, near Talcott, WV, atop the mountain through which the Big Bend Tunnel runs. The site serves as a monument to the legendary "steel drivin' man" who beat a steam drill in a race said to have taken place during the construction of the Big Bend Tunnel.
West Virginia Railroads
More railroad related history, photos, and links can be found at:  WVRailroads.net -- the Website devoted to the railroads of West Virginia, past and present.

 
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