Life Inside One Building: The Town That Chose Togetherness

A Town Shaped By Geography:

Whittier is a small town on the southern coast of Alaska, surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and cold waters. Its remote location and harsh weather have played a major role in how the town developed. 

With heavy snowfall, strong winds, and limited road access, daily life in Whittier has always required practical solutions. One of those solutions is the way most residents live together in a single building.

The Begich Towers Building:

Nearly all of Whittier’s population lives in a 14-story structure known as Begich Towers. This building was originally constructed by the U.S. Army in the 1950s and was called the Hodge Building. 

It was designed to house military personnel stationed in the area. When the military left, the building was converted into civilian housing and renamed Begich Towers.

Everything Under One Roof:

Begich Towers is more than just apartments. Inside the building, residents have access to a post office, a small grocery store, a health clinic, a police station, and even a church. 

Covered hallways connect parts of the building, allowing people to move around without going outside during extreme weather. This setup makes daily tasks easier, especially during long winters.

Why Most Residents Live There:

Living in one building is not required, but it makes sense for many people in Whittier. The town has fewer than 300 residents, and housing options are limited. Begich Towers offers safety, convenience, and a strong sense of community. When storms hit or temperatures drop, residents can continue their routines without facing dangerous conditions.

Community Life And Social Bonds:

Sharing one building has shaped how people interact in Whittier. Neighbors often know each other well, and community ties are strong. Children play together in shared spaces, and adults see familiar faces every day. While privacy still exists inside individual apartments, the overall atmosphere encourages cooperation and mutual support.

What Whittier Teaches About Adaptation:

Whittier shows how communities can adapt to their environment in creative ways. Instead of spreading out like most towns, residents chose a model that fits their surroundings. 

Begich Towers reflects how design, location, and lifestyle can come together to meet real needs. For anyone interested in geography, urban planning, or unique ways of living, Whittier offers a clear example of how people adjust when nature sets the rules.