Scary To Think Illinois Abandoned Storage Bunker Was For TNT

An abandoned storage bunker in Illinois was used for TNT, which is a scary thought.

The United States Preparing For Major Conflicts

When the United States got involved in World Wars I and II plus other major military conflicts, the country had to build up its arsenal to prepare to go to battle. Some factories were converted and others constructed to make weapons and ammunition. In fact, my grandfather moved from Iowa to Illinois for a job in one of those plants.

Ammunition Factories In Illinois

The state of Illinois hand a few of those ammunition factories. One of them was built in Joliet during World War II. It was the Joliet Army Ammunition Plant. The facility was also used during the Korean War and Vietnam War. They made TNT and artillery shells.

Storage Facilities In Illinois For TNT And Artillery Shells

After the factory built the TNT and artillery shells, they needed somewhere to store them before having the ammunition shipped to the United States military. Storage bunkers were designed to hold the weapons. The walls are three to five feet thick cement. It is covered with dirt and plant life for camouflage and to help keep the building at a steady temperature.

Joliet Army Ammunition Plant Was Shut Down

The ammunition plant was no longer needed. The United States government closed down this factory back in the 1970s. The grounds were left vacant for many years.

The Land Was Donated For Another Project

According to atlasobscura.com, 

"In 1993, the land was declared to be excess and a redevelopment project was planned."

"That land became part of the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, the first national park of its kind."

"Today, the land is public property for all to enjoy."

It looks like it could be a cool place to do some exploring and hiking in the Spring.

Doesn't it look like it would be a great set for a future Science Fiction movie?

WARNING: Under no circumstances should you enter this property. By doing so you risk bodily harm and/or prosecution for trespassing on private property.