Exploring Cheshire's Cold War Bunker: A Deep Dive into Its History and Design

The small town of Cheshire, Connecticut, hides a remarkable piece of Cold War history beneath its surface. Built in 1966 by AT&T, this underground bunker was designed to protect critical telecommunications infrastructure from the threat of nuclear attack. Its robust construction and strategic role in military communications make it a fascinating example of Cold War-era engineering and preparedness. This post explores the bunker’s unique design features, its purpose during the Cold War, and its current status.

Image Representation of Entrance to Cheshire Cold War bunker, showing reinforced concrete structure

Hardened Design Built to Withstand Nuclear Threats

The Cheshire bunker was constructed as a two-story underground facility, buried about 60 feet below ground. Its walls are made of 48-inch-thick concrete, providing formidable protection against blasts. To further shield the facility from the electromagnetic pulse (EMP) generated by a nuclear explosion, the bunker’s interior is lined with copper. This copper shielding prevents the EMP from damaging sensitive electronic equipment inside.

The design reflects the intense focus on durability and survivability during the Cold War. The bunker was not just a shelter but a critical node in the nation’s telecommunications network, so it had to remain operational even in extreme conditions.

Shock Protection for Sensitive Electronics

One of the most innovative features of the Cheshire bunker is how it protects its electronic systems from shock waves caused by nearby explosions. Both the building itself and the equipment racks inside are mounted on massive springs. These springs absorb the ground shock, preventing damage to delicate telecommunications gear.

This shock isolation system ensured that the bunker could continue functioning even if a nuclear blast occurred close by. It highlights the level of engineering detail that went into maintaining communications during a potential crisis.

Size and Depth of the Facility

The bunker covers roughly one acre underground, with a floor plan of about 20,000 square feet. This large space allowed it to house not only telecommunications equipment but also the personnel needed to operate and maintain the systems.

Being buried 60 feet deep provided additional protection from surface-level blasts and radiation. The depth and size made it a self-contained facility capable of supporting extended operations without outside assistance.

Image Representation of Interior of Cheshire Cold War bunker with spring-mounted equipment racks

Survival Systems for Extended Occupancy

The bunker was designed to sustain a crew for long periods. It includes an airlock with a decontamination shower to prevent contamination from nuclear fallout. Massive fuel tanks ensure power supply continuity, while supply rooms are stocked with food and even clothing from the 1960s era.

These survival features show how the facility was prepared not just for immediate attack but for ongoing operations during a prolonged crisis. The crew could remain inside safely, maintaining critical communications without exposure to outside dangers.

Strategic Role in Military Communications

During the Cold War, the Cheshire bunker served as a key terminal for the hardened "Long Lines" carrier cable network. It also anchored the AUTOVON system, a priority military communications network used by the Department of Defense.

This meant the bunker was a vital link in the chain of command and control, ensuring that military and government communications could continue even under nuclear threat. Its role was essential for national security and military readiness.

Image Representation of Communications tower at Cheshire bunker site with former microwave antennas

Current Status and Legacy

Although much of the original microwave technology has been removed, parts of the Cheshire bunker remain operational today as a modern telecommunications hub. The site is marked by a large communications tower at the south end of town, which once held massive microwave horn antennas.

The bunker stands as a reminder of the Cold War era’s intense focus on communication security and nuclear preparedness. For those interested in exploring more about this and other similar facilities in Connecticut, the Cold War CT website offers detailed historical documentation.