Whittier: A Town of Only One Building Established by the U.S. Army During World War II

Nestled between the towering mountains and the pristine waters of Prince William Sound, Whittier, Alaska, stands out as one of the most unusual towns in America. 

Known as the "town under one roof," Whittier’s unique structure was conceived during World War II by the U.S. Army, a strategic move that has left a lasting imprint on this remote Alaskan locale.

The Birth of Whittier

Whittier was established by the U.S. Army in 1943 as a secret military base. 

The site was chosen for its strategic location, providing a safe harbor with easy access to the Pacific Ocean yet shielded by the surrounding mountains. 

This made it an ideal spot for a military outpost to protect against potential Japanese attacks during the war.

The Hodge Building and the Begich Towers

The central feature of Whittier’s design was the construction of a massive building to house nearly all of the town’s essential functions. 

Originally named the Hodge Building, this structure later became known as the Begich Towers, a towering edifice that continues to be the focal point of the town.

Completed in 1957, the 14-story Begich Towers was designed to be a self-contained community. 

It included residential apartments, a hospital, a theater, a gym, a swimming pool, a post office, and even a small grocery store. 

This design was intended to protect residents from the harsh Alaskan weather, allowing them to live, work, and play without needing to venture outside.

Life Under One Roof

Living in Whittier today means being part of a tight-knit community where everyone is, quite literally, under the same roof. 

The majority of the town’s approximately 200 residents live in the Begich Towers. 

This unique living arrangement fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual reliance that is rare in larger, more sprawling communities.

Residents enjoy the convenience of having most amenities just a few steps away from their front doors. 

Children attend school within the building, neighbors share communal spaces, and community events are held in shared areas. 

This lifestyle has created a close-knit community where everyone knows each other, and cooperation is a way of life.

The Charm and Challenges

While the single-building town offers many conveniences, it also presents unique challenges. 

The close quarters can sometimes feel confining, and the town's isolation—reachable primarily by a single tunnel that is closed at night—adds to the sense of seclusion. 

However, these challenges have also cultivated a resilient and adaptable community spirit.

Whittier's residents have embraced their town’s quirks and turned them into strengths. 

The sense of unity and mutual support is palpable, with residents frequently coming together to solve problems and celebrate their unique way of life.

A Living Piece of History

Whittier stands as a living piece of World War II history, a reminder of a time when strategic military considerations shaped the development of towns and cities. 

Today, it offers a rare glimpse into a way of life that is both historical and modern, blending the practicality of wartime planning with the needs and comforts of contemporary living.

Visitors to Whittier are often struck by the town’s singular structure and the remarkable community within it. 

From the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding the town to the extraordinary concept of living under one roof, Whittier is a unique Alaskan gem that continues to fascinate and inspire those who experience it.

In the heart of Alaska, the town of Whittier remains a testament to human ingenuity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of community forged in the crucible of wartime necessity.