The Berks Photographic Society had a wonderful photo shoot experience on September 7, 2019. The event had 11 participants, the imposed limit due to the tight quarters of one of the sites. 

The day started off early at the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine in Ashland, PA. We walked the length of the 1800 foot long tunnel deep into the now museum coal mine. There were several side tunnel to investigate, as well. We all managed to have plenty of time for our tripod exposures. After two hours inside the tunnel, we were transported back to the mine entrance on the electric train.

Then, we all hustled to the Blaschak Coal Processing Plant in Gilberton. We had the very unique opportunity to photograph inside the coal braker facility. Wearing safety gear, we got up close & personal with the huge, vibrating & very loud machinery that sorted, cracked, washed & distributed the coal. 

After a roadside lunch break, we stopped at one of the several mine-contaminated orange creeks that intertwine the area. We then headed into the town of Centralia. A slow burning underground fire began in a coal seam back underneath the town dump in 1962. The fire eventually spread into mine tunnels navigating underneath the town’s homes and businesses. All attempts to extinguish the fire failed. By 1984, much of the town was effected by the underground fire and its toxic fumes along with sink holes into the old tunnels. Most of the residents finally gave up by then and abandoned Centralia. Nearly all structures were condemned and torn down. There remains 5 persistent families living among the now empty streets and lots. Quite a sight. Just a few weeks ago, Centralia was listed by Conde Nast Travel as one of the 18 scariest places on earth to visit!

The day wrapped up at the Graffiti Highway, old Route 61, outside of Centralia. This one mile of former roadway was bypassed and abandoned by PennDOT because of fire damage. It has become a tourist attraction and is covered in all sorts of spray painted art. 
(Trip report written by Vince Pellegrini)

Below are images from the trip, taken by Club members:

Les Barr
Ivan Bub
Bill Coughlin
Vince Pellegrini