Just about where is this exactly in the PA mountains? Arwe we talking the NE corner of the state, with Scranton and the old coal towns, or more the middle part?

The place is "Ashland, PA" and attraction is called the "Pioneer Tunnel". I think it's in the central portion of the state, but I'm not totaly sure.

It's sort of the east part of central, not far off I-81.

Interesting town! Don't think there is a level spot anywhere in town :)

I've only been there twice, as near as I can remember. The first time I was really little and the second time was on a Scout trip. It was a fun place with a lot of history... and a working steam engine! That always makes things better!

I believe they have a second one tucked away in the engine shed or shop building, also a Vulcan built 0-4-0T. I know they always try and keep one engine running, but I don't know if they're using the other for parts or if it's just down right now.

Dunno, but I like the mine. The playground across from it is a classic too; most of those rides were outlawed everywhere else about 25 years ago.

There is an awesome sammich shop down the hill on the north side of the main street. And I do mean *down* the main street! If you ever lose your brakes at the top end of that town, you are done for! ;)

#9 mine museum in Lansford is also worth a visit. I haven't been back since soon after they opened.

The Pioneer Tunnel is the only mine I've had the privilege of visiting and touring. Though that's not to say I wouldn't want to go again or visit other preserved mines and mining museums. In fact I've been recently drawn to the copper mining industry in Arizona. Partly from my own ventures in model railroading, but also personal interest. Like the Arizona Copper Company and it's 20" gauge railway(s). Sadly there's almost nothing left of the operation. There was a smelter in Clifton, AZ that the line served, bringing rich copper ore from the mines in Chase Creek Canyon to the smelter for processing. The line was regauged to 3ft in 1903 and the smaller 20" gauge equipment went to served the Coronado Incline at the engine of the canyon in what was Metcalf, AZ. Today that whole area is now a series of gigantic holes in the ground from open pit mining. Last I checked the only real remains are the foundations and a stone tank where the smelter was, and the site of the Coronado Mine. The 1700 incline is gone. It's a unique bit in history that has been sadly lost to time.

But enough rambling about that. ^^'

If you get a chance (and haven't) check out the Cu range in Michigan and Wisconsin. Fair amount of preserved stuff, although naturally it is always fading :( There's no active copper mining, so it's not like AZ where present industry is obliterating the past.

Pennsyltucky has 5 coal mine tours, so if you get back that way look for others. Each has its unique angle!

I'll certainly keep that in mind. Mining has become and ever growing interest of mine and I'd like to learn more about it. Especially hard rock mining like one finds for gold, silver, copper, ect...

And again, sorry for taking 6 months to respond. >////<

Enh. What's time? :)

I see your point, I just prefer to be punctual.