Whittier: Alaska’s Town Lives In One Building
Nestled amidst the dramatic Alaskan mountains lies Whittier, a town unlike any other in the United States. Nicknamed the “Town Under One Roof,” Whittier boasts a unique characteristic – nearly all its residents live in a single, massive building called the Begich Towers.
The tall building that dominates the Whittier skyline, the Begich Towers, is evidence of the ingenuity and tenacity of the town’s residents. Constructed as a military installation in the midst of World War II, the structure underwent a transformation in the 1950s to serve Whittier’s expanding populace. It now functions as a multipurpose complex with residences, offices, retail spaces, a minor hospital, and schools among its tenants.
Living in the Begich Towers is an experience like no other. Residents have the convenience of having everything they need right at their doorstep. Need groceries? Just take the elevator down to the ground floor and you’ll find a well-stocked supermarket. Looking for some entertainment? The building has its own movie theater and recreation center, where residents can unwind and socialize.
Despite its massive size, the Begich Towers has a close-knit community feel. With everyone living under the same roof, neighbors become more like extended family members. The shared spaces, such as the communal laundry rooms and the rooftop garden, provide opportunities for residents to interact and build relationships.
Living in such close proximity to one another also fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and support. In times of need, neighbors can rely on each other for assistance, whether it’s borrowing a cup of sugar or helping with a household repair. This tight-knit community spirit is what sets Whittier apart from other towns.
The charming village of Whittier is encircled by breathtakingly beautiful scenery. The Begich Towers’ breathtaking scenery includes majestic mountains, immaculate glaciers, and glistening lakes. There are many other outdoor activities available to enthusiasts, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Because of its position, the town is also a well-liked destination for wildlife aficionados. A variety of wildlife, including as bald eagles, seals, and whales, call the town home.
Whittier is a little town with just 200 residents, but despite this, it has a very active cultural life. Regular community gatherings at The Begich Towers feature live music and art exhibits, displaying the skills of the town’s citizens. The town also boasts a rich past, which is commemorated and conserved in a number of historical landmarks and museums.
A Unique History
This unconventional way of life in Whittier stems from its history. Originally built during World War II as a military outpost called Camp Whittier, the area housed a large personnel population. Following the war, the army constructed the Begich Towers to provide housing for those who remained.
The decision to house everyone under one roof wasn’t just arbitrary. Whittier experiences some of the wettest weather in the world, receiving an average of 197 inches (5,000 mm) of rain annually. Combined with its location at the head of a narrow fjord accessible only by a tunnel, the harsh environment made a single, self-contained structure a practical solution.
A Microcosm of a Community
The Begich Towers is no ordinary apartment building. This 14-story behemoth contains 153 bedrooms and bachelor efficiency units, accommodating roughly 270 residents. Within its walls, you’ll find all the essentials of a small town – a grocery store, a laundromat, a church, a school, and even a police station. It’s a microcosm of a community, fostering a close-knit atmosphere where residents practically live on top of each other.
Life in Whittier has its own charm. Residents enjoy the convenience of having everything they need within walking distance, especially during the harsh winter months when venturing outside can be a challenge. The close proximity fosters a strong sense of community, with neighbors often becoming friends due to the constant interaction.
Not for Everyone
However, this unique living situation isn’t for everyone. The lack of privacy and the constant sense of being surrounded by others can be overwhelming for some. Additionally, with limited job opportunities within the confines of the Begich Towers, residents seeking diverse career paths may find themselves venturing out.
Despite its limitations, Whittier offers a unique glimpse into a different way of life. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and adaptation in the face of challenging environmental conditions. Whether you choose to live there or simply visit, Whittier’s story and its iconic Begich Towers will leave a lasting impression.
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