Begich Towers: The Town Under One Roof

The Begich Towers is a unique residential building located in Whittier, Alaska. Known as "the town under one roof," this 14-story building houses nearly the entire population of Whittier, which is a small town with about 200 residents. Built in 1957, the building was originally designed for the U.S. Army as part of a military complex but was later converted into civilian housing.

Begich Towers includes apartments, a post office, grocery store, police station, clinic, and other facilities, making it a self-contained community. Due to its isolated location and the extreme weather conditions in the area, residents rely heavily on the amenities within the building, reducing the need to travel outside frequently. Whittier itself is known for its heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the fact that it is only accessible by a single tunnel, boat, or small plane.

The building stands as a fascinating example of how architecture can adapt to meet the unique needs of its environment and the community it serves.

Nestled on the shores of Prince William Sound, in the remote town of Whittier, Alaska, stands one of the most unusual residential buildings in the world: the Begich Towers. Often referred to as "the town under one roof," this 14-story building is home to nearly the entire population of Whittier, which hovers around 200 residents. The Begich Towers is more than just a residential complex; it’s a community hub that encapsulates the unique lifestyle of this isolated Alaskan town.

A Brief History

The Begich Towers, officially known as the Begich Towers Condominium Association (BTCA), was constructed in 1957. It was originally built by the U.S. Army and called the Hodge Building, serving as part of a military complex during the Cold War era. The building was designed to be self-sufficient, able to withstand harsh weather conditions and potential attacks due to its strategic location. In 1972, the building was repurposed for civilian use and renamed in honor of Congressman Nick Begich, who disappeared in a plane crash that same year.

Life Inside the Towers

What makes the Begich Towers truly unique is how it combines nearly every aspect of daily life within a single structure. Inside its walls, you’ll find:

• Residences: The building contains around 150 residential units, ranging from small studios to larger apartments. Most residents of Whittier live here, sharing this vertical neighborhood.

• Essential Services: Begich Towers houses essential services including the town’s post office, a police station, a health clinic, and the city government offices. This setup reduces the need for residents to brave the often extreme weather conditions to access these services.

• Amenities: Within the building, there’s also a grocery store, a laundromat, a church, and even a bed-and-breakfast for visitors. There's a tunnel connecting the building to the local school, ensuring that students don't have to face harsh weather on their way to class.

• Community Spaces: The building hosts several communal areas, including a recreation room and a small meeting area where residents can gather for events or socializing.

The Challenges of Living in Begich Towers

Living in Begich Towers comes with its unique set of challenges and quirks. Whittier is known for its severe weather, with frequent heavy rainfall, snow, and powerful winds that can reach up to 60 mph. Because of these conditions, the building’s self-contained nature is not just a convenience but a necessity.

The town itself is accessible only by a single, one-lane tunnel that runs through a mountain and is shared with a railway. This tunnel, the longest highway tunnel in North America, is open to vehicle traffic in one direction at a time, alternating every half hour. It can close in extreme weather, which can leave the town completely cut off for short periods.

Despite the isolation, residents have developed a strong sense of community. The unique lifestyle fosters close-knit relationships, as neighbors are also friends, classmates, and colleagues. In many ways, Begich Towers operates like a small village, with the benefits and challenges of living in close quarters with the entire community.

The Future of Begich Towers

Whittier's Begich Towers stands as a testament to human resilience and adaptability. While the building is aging, there have been ongoing efforts to maintain and improve its facilities. Some residents have expressed a desire for modernization and expansion of amenities to better serve the town’s unique needs.

The story of Begich Towers is one of community and ingenuity. It highlights how architecture can be adapted to meet the specific needs of a remote and isolated population. For visitors, a trip to Whittier offers a glimpse into a lifestyle that’s as far removed from the hustle of urban living as one can imagine, set against the stunning backdrop of Alaska’s wild, untamed beauty.