Tucked between Alaskan mountains and the icy waters of Prince William Sound, Whittier is home to just over 200 residents—most of whom live in one building: Begich Towers. This 14-story former military barracks houses apartments, a grocery store, school access, city offices, and more. Connected by tunnels and isolated by a mountain pass, the town thrives on a unique indoor lifestyle. Despite limited privacy, residents embrace a tight-knit, cooperative community that turns isolation into connection—and a building into a home.
Begich Towers
In the heart of Whittier stands the iconic Begich Towers, a 14-story concrete structure that is much more than a mere building. Originally constructed as a military barracks during the Cold War era, this architectural marvel was designed to withstand harsh Alaskan winters and potential threats.
Today, it serves as the nucleus of the town, housing nearly all of its residents under one roof—a concept unimaginable to most. Beyond apartments, it includes essential amenities like a post office, police station, grocery store, and even a church.
With everything interconnected, residents rarely need to endure the brutal winter weather outside. This unique setup fosters a strong sense of community and togetherness, as everyone knows each other by name and face. Begich Towers isn’t just a residence; it’s the heartbeat of Whittier, embodying the true spirit of communal living in isolation.
The Underground Tunnel
Imagine a world where going to school doesn’t require stepping outside. In Whittier, this is a reality, thanks to the underground tunnel that connects Begich Towers to the local school. This ingenious design allows children to attend classes without facing the harsh Alaskan climate.
This tunnel is more than just a passage. It’s a lifeline that ensures education continues uninterrupted by the fierce weather. As students walk through, they are reminded of the unique living situation they are part of—a community that thrives on togetherness and innovation.
This subterranean corridor symbolizes the town’s adaptability and resilience in the face of nature’s challenges. For residents, it represents safety and convenience, a daily reminder of the collective effort to create a nurturing environment in the most unexpected of places.
Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel
Whittier’s isolation is both a challenge and a charm, embodied by the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. At 2.5 miles long, it is the longest highway tunnel in North America. Carved through a mountain, it serves as the main gateway to this secluded town.
Operating on a timed schedule, the tunnel alternates traffic directions, making logistics crucial for both residents and visitors. This unique access route highlights the town’s remote nature and the precision required to maintain connectivity.
The tunnel is a marvel of engineering, a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. For Whittier’s residents, it signifies the boundary between their sheltered communal life and the vast, untamed world beyond. Crossing it is an experience, a journey that underscores the uniqueness of living in such an extraordinary place.
Community Living
In Whittier, community living takes on a new meaning. Residents of Begich Towers experience an unparalleled closeness, sharing not just a building but a lifestyle. This setup nurtures relationships and fosters a spirit of cooperation.
In the hallways, you can hear the laughter of children playing, neighbors exchanging stories, and the comforting hum of daily life. It’s a place where everyone knows each other, and support is always a door away.
This communal living offers a stark contrast to the isolation often found in larger cities. Here, the ties between people are strong, woven together by shared experiences and mutual reliance. It’s this sense of unity that makes Whittier, despite its seclusion, a thriving community where individuals feel connected and valued.
Local Amenities
Within the confines of Begich Towers, residents have access to a range of amenities that make daily life convenient and self-sufficient. From a grocery store stocked with essentials to a post office and laundromat, everything needed is just an elevator ride away.
These facilities are not merely services but integral parts of the community fabric. They provide more than convenience; they are hubs where people gather, converse, and strengthen bonds. Each service is a thread in the tapestry of this unique town.
For newcomers, the idea of having everything under one roof might be novel, yet it quickly becomes a cherished aspect of life here. This arrangement exemplifies the town’s ability to adapt and thrive, turning potential challenges of remote living into advantages that enhance community life.
Whittier’s Unique Weather
Whittier’s weather is as much a character of the town as its people. With heavy snowfall, strong winds, and long periods of darkness, it shapes the lifestyle of its residents, driving them to remain indoors more often than not.
This harsh climate is not merely an obstacle but a defining trait of Whittier. It influences everything from architecture to daily routines, compelling the community to adapt creatively.
The weather fosters a sense of camaraderie among residents who face its challenges together. It’s a shared experience that unites the town, making the indoor warmth of Begich Towers even more inviting. This powerful environment molds Whittier’s identity, a testament to its resilience and spirit.
Tourism in Whittier
Though remote, Whittier attracts adventurers and tourists drawn to its stunning natural beauty and unique living arrangement. Cruise ships frequently dock here during the summer, bringing visitors eager to explore glacier tours, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
For tourists, the allure is not just the landscape but the story of Begich Towers and its residents. The juxtaposition of breathtaking views and an entire town living under one roof captivates the imagination.
These visits offer a glimpse into a lifestyle that stands in stark contrast to conventional living. Whittier provides a rare opportunity to witness a community that thrives amidst isolation, where the bonds between residents are as strong as the mountains that surround them.
