Pennsylvania’s rich with history, much of which we learn about in school, in history books, and by touring historical sites. However, there’s still quite a bit of history that goes unnoticed, often because it’s just not that well-known. The Bunkers of Alvira in Pennsylvania, for example, tell a fascinating tale set during World War II. Perhaps even better, we can visit them for a firsthand history lesson.
Before America’s entrance into World War II, Central Pennsylvania was home to a small village known as Alvira. The village thrived during its relatively short history.
Google/Jimmy Mona
However, once the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, the fate of the tiny village would be sealed - due to the United States Government’s plan to increase production of military equipment.
Google/Brian Wood
The question quickly became where to store all of that equipment. The answer? Alvira, which the government took over with the power of eminent domain.
Google/Brian Wood
All residents were essentially kicked out of their homes, and the village was razed.
Wikimedia Commons/Brianmuth1
The land was then used to build the Susquehanna Ordnance Depot, which included nearly 150 bunkers. One of those bunkers is pictured below.
Google/Aaron Mattison
Unfortunately, the government vastly overestimated how much military equipment, and ammunition in particular, was needed. The Susquehanna Ordnance Depot closed within a year.
Google/Nathan Cole
The depot, including the bunkers, was left abandoned. Today, the bunkers sit within state game lands.
Google/Robert Bleatttler
Doors to some are open, but be careful if you dare to venture in. Expect graffiti with profanity in some of them.
Google/Vanilla Cakes
If you’re up for an adventure, you can also find a long-forgotten village cemetery near the bunkers.
Google/Aaron Mattison
Have you seen the Bunkers of Alvira in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! Did you know that Pennsylvania’s also home to the ruins of an old POW camp from World War II? You can see them near Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Gardners.
Google/Jimmy Mona
Google/Brian Wood
Wikimedia Commons/Brianmuth1
Google/Aaron Mattison
Google/Nathan Cole
Google/Robert Bleatttler
Google/Vanilla Cakes
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Address: 1884 Alvira Rd, Allenwood, PA 17810, USA
