In the scenic expanse of Alaska, a unique living arrangement exists in the town of Whittier, nestled an hour southeast of Anchorage. This tiny, remote town is home to approximately 220 residents who share a rather unusual lifestyle: virtually the entire population lives together under a single roof in one large building. This extraordinary setup is a defining characteristic of Whittier, making it one of the most unique communities in the United States, if not the world.
The building, known as Begich Towers, stands as the heart of the community and hosts nearly all the residential, social, and public services needed by its inhabitants. Constructed during the Cold War era, the structure was originally intended as an army barracks. Today, it has been repurposed to include private apartments, a post office, a church, a health clinic, a laundromat, and a grocery store. This arrangement ensures that residents rarely need to step outside during Whittier’s harsh winter months, when temperatures drop drastically and heavy snow is a regular occurrence.
Life in Whittier is a study in community living and interdependence. The setup fosters a close-knit atmosphere where everyone knows each other, and communal responsibility is a part of daily life. This connectedness provides a sense of security and mutual aid, which is essential in such an isolated location. However, it also means that privacy can be limited, a trade-off that the residents of Whittier willingly accept for the benefits of communal living in a challenging environment.
The singular housing arrangement also influences the way social and recreational activities are conducted. The building features communal spaces where residents gather to socialize, celebrate holidays, and conduct town meetings. These interactions enhance the bonds among residents, creating a resilient community fabric that is vital for their collective well-being in such a secluded and potentially harsh environment.
Despite its isolation, Whittier's unique charm and the communal lifestyle of The Begich Towers attract a modest number of tourists each year, eager to see this unique town for themselves. They often come away inspired by the simplicity and the tightly knit community, which stands in stark contrast to the individualistic lifestyles seen in much of the modern world.
The town of Whittier serves as a remarkable example of adaptation and communal living, encapsulated in a single high-rise against the backdrop of Alaska's spectacular natural beauty. It is a living model of how humans can efficiently share space and resources, a peculiar yet fascinating testament to human ingenuity and the spirit of community.
