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Have you ever heard of a town where almost everyone lives in one building? Welcome to Whittier, Alaska, a unique and fascinating place with stunning natural surroundings. Whittier should be at the top of your list if you are looking for an unusual travel destination. Let's find out what makes this town so special and hear from the people who call this extraordinary building home.
Nestled on the edge of Prince William Sond, the small Alaskan town of Whittier is like no other. With a population of around 200 people, this unique town lives almost entirely in one building: the Begich Towers. This structure is a self-contained world, housing nearly all of Whittier's residents and most of its facilities. From apartments and a school to a grocery store and a church, everything you need can be found within its walls. This remarkable setup is both a practical solution to the harsh Alaskan weather and a fascinating example of a close-knit community.
Begich Towers: The Heart of Whittier
The Begich Towers, built in 1956, originally served as a military barracks. Today, it stands as the central hub of Whittier, providing shelter and services to its residents. The 14-story building is connected to almost every aspect of daily life in Whittier. Inside, you'll find apartments of varying sizes, a school for children, a post office, a grocery store, a health clinic, and even a police station. There's also a small church, a laundromat, and recreational facilities, making it possible for residents to go weeks without needing to step outside.
Why One Building?
The decision to live in one building is largely driven by Whittier's extreme weather conditions. The town experiences fierce winds, heavy snowfall, and temperatures that can drop significantly in the winter. By centralizing everything in one building, residents can avoid the challenges of commuting in such harsh conditions. This arrangement also makes it easier to maintain and heat the building, providing a cost-effective solution for the community.
The Beauty of Whittier's Surroundings
Whittier is located in the breathtaking Prince William Sound. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty, with majestic mountains, lush forests, and sparkling waters. The landscape is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
During the summer, the area is perfect for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The nearby Chugach National Forest offers scenic trails and abundant wildlife. You might spot a bear, a moose, or even bald eagles soaring above. In winter, the snowy landscape is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The town's proximity to the water means you can also enjoy boat tours to see glaciers and marine wildlife, such as whales, seals, and otters.
A Close-Knit Community
Living in such close proximity has fostered a strong sense of community among the residents of Whittier. Neighbors know each other well, and the shared spaces within Begich Towers encourage frequent social interactions. The school, located on the lower floors of the building, allows children to attend classes without leaving the warmth and safety of the indoors. Parents can easily stay connected with their children's education and activities, as everything happens under the same roof.
Life Inside the Towers
For many, living in Begich Towers offers a unique and comfortable lifestyle. The apartments are cozy, and the convenience of having essential services just an elevator ride away cannot be overstated. Residents enjoy the camaraderie and support that comes from being part of such a tight-knit community. However, it's not without its challenges. Privacy can be limited, and the sense of isolation from the outside world can be intense, especially during the long, dark winter months.
A Tourist Attraction
Whittier's unusual living arrangement has also made it a point of interest for tourists. Visitors come to see how the residents manage their daily lives within a single building. The town's picturesque location, surrounded by mountains and water, adds to its charm. Tourists often take the 2.5-mile-long Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the longest highway tunnel in North America, to reach Whittier. This tunnel, which also serves as a railway passage, is the only land access to the town, further emphasizing its unique isolation.
Visiting Whittier
If you're planning to visit Whittier, getting there is an adventure in itself. The town is accessible via a one-lane tunnel that runs through a mountain. This tunnel, known as the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, is the longest highway tunnel in North America at 2.5 miles. It's a thrilling drive that adds to the town's charm and isolation.
Once in Whittier, you can explore the town's history at the local museum, take a boat tour, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings. Don't forget to visit the Whittier Harbor, where you can see boats coming and going against a backdrop of stunning mountains.
