Submariners’ Shadows: Hidden Cold War Bunkers In The Midwest

Have you ever wondered about the hidden secrets of the Midwest? Beneath the rolling plains and quiet towns lie Cold War bunkers that once played a crucial role in national defense. These underground fortresses, built to withstand nuclear attacks, now stand as silent reminders of a tense period in history. From Iowa to Missouri, these bunkers are scattered across the heartland, each with its own story to tell. Some have been repurposed, while others remain abandoned, waiting for curious explorers to uncover their mysteries. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of these hidden Cold War relics.

Submariners' Shadows: Hidden Cold War Bunkers in the Midwest

During the Cold War, the Midwest became a strategic location for hidden bunkers. These bunkers, often disguised and forgotten, hold stories of a tense period in history. Let's uncover some of these secretive spots.

1. Greenbrier Bunker, West Virginia

Though not exactly in the Midwest, the Greenbrier Bunker is a significant Cold War relic. Built under the Greenbrier Resort, this bunker was meant to house Congress in case of a nuclear attack.

• Location: White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
• Features: 112,544 square feet, decontamination chambers, dormitories
• Interesting Fact: The bunker remained a secret for 30 years until a 1992 Washington Post article exposed it.

2. Raven Rock Mountain Complex, Pennsylvania

Known as the "Underground Pentagon," Raven Rock is another critical Cold War bunker. This facility was designed to serve as a backup Pentagon.

• Location: Near Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania
• Features: Five-story building, underground lake, self-sufficient power plant
• Interesting Fact: Raven Rock is still operational and used by the Department of Defense.

3. Cheyenne Mountain Complex, Colorado

Cheyenne Mountain, though more west than Midwest, played a crucial role during the Cold War. This bunker was built to withstand a nuclear blast.

• Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
• Features: 15 three-story buildings, 25-ton blast doors, self-sustaining ecosystem
• Interesting Fact: It was featured in the movie "WarGames" and the TV series "Stargate SG-1."

4. Iron Mountain, Missouri

Iron Mountain is a lesser-known bunker that served as a storage facility during the Cold War. Its natural limestone cave provided a perfect hiding spot.

• Location: Near Springfield, Missouri
• Features: 1.8 million square feet, climate-controlled storage, secure vaults
• Interesting Fact: Today, it stores valuable documents, including original recordings of Elvis Presley.

5. Nike Missile Sites, Illinois

Scattered across Illinois, Nike Missile Sites were part of a nationwide defense system. These sites housed anti-aircraft missiles to protect against Soviet bombers.

• Location: Various locations in Illinois
• Features: Missile silos, radar towers, underground control rooms
• Interesting Fact: Some sites have been repurposed as parks or historical landmarks.

6. Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, South Dakota

This site preserves the history of the Minuteman Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) system. It offers a glimpse into the Cold War's nuclear deterrence strategy.

• Location: Near Wall, South Dakota
• Features: Delta-09 missile silo, Delta-01 launch control facility, visitor center
• Interesting Fact: The site includes a deactivated missile silo that visitors can tour.

7. Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, Nebraska

This museum showcases the history of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and its role during the Cold War. It features aircraft, missiles, and exhibits related to nuclear deterrence.

• Location: Ashland, Nebraska
• Features: B-52 Stratofortress, Atlas ICBM, Cold War gallery
• Interesting Fact: The museum houses one of the few remaining SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance aircraft.

8. Camp David, Maryland

While not in the Midwest, Camp David served as a secure retreat for U.S. presidents during the Cold War. Its secluded location made it an ideal spot for high-level meetings.

• Location: Catoctin Mountain Park, Maryland
• Features: Presidential cabins, conference rooms, secure communications
• Interesting Fact: Camp David was the site of the 1978 Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel.

9. Waverly Hills Sanatorium, Kentucky

Originally a tuberculosis hospital, Waverly Hills was repurposed during the Cold War. It became a fallout shelter for local government officials.

• Location: Louisville, Kentucky
• Features: Underground tunnels, reinforced structures, emergency supplies
• Interesting Fact: Waverly Hills is rumored to be one of the most haunted places in America.

10. Detroit Salt Mine, Michigan

The Detroit Salt Mine, primarily used for salt extraction, also served as a potential fallout shelter. Its vast underground network provided a secure location.

• Location: Detroit, Michigan
• Features: 1,500 acres of tunnels, 1,200 feet underground, stable temperature
• Interesting Fact: The mine is still operational and produces road salt for the Midwest.

Hidden History Beneath Our Feet

Cold War bunkers in the Midwest hold a fascinating piece of history. These hidden structures, once top-secret, now offer a glimpse into a tense era. Exploring these bunkers reveals the lengths taken to protect against nuclear threats. From underground tunnels to fortified rooms, each bunker tells a story of preparation and survival.

Visiting these sites can be an eye-opening experience. They remind us of the past's challenges and the resilience of those who lived through it. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, these bunkers provide a unique look into a world that was once shrouded in secrecy.

Next time you're in the Midwest, consider taking a detour to one of these hidden gems. You'll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the history beneath our feet.