Begich Towers is a 14-story residential building on Kenai Street in Whittier, Alaska, where almost the entire town lives. Built by the military in 1956 and transferred to civilian ownership in 1975, it gives you a glimpse of the town’s unusual history and daily life. The ground floor is open to the public, with a library and historical photos; upper floors are residents’ private space. Stop by to see the building and learn about Whittier, then take in the surrounding views.
A building with a town inside
Begich Towers was built by the military in 1956 and passed into civilian ownership in 1975. Today, almost the entire town of Whittier lives in the 14-story building, giving it an unusual role in local life.
The ground floor is open to the public. The rest of the building is for residents, so keep your visit to the public areas.
The public ground floor
The library and historical photos on the ground floor offer a small window into Whittier’s past. Take a moment to look through the images and consider how the building’s history has shifted from military construction to civilian life.
The building is also a useful point from which to take in the surrounding views. Winter weather can be windy, so dress for the conditions if you visit then.
Preguntas frecuentes
Can the public go inside Begich Towers?
The ground floor is open to the public and includes a library and historical photos. Other areas are restricted to residents.
What can you see inside Begich Towers?
The public ground floor has a library and historical photos about Whittier’s past.
When was Begich Towers built?
The military built the 14-story building in 1956. It transferred to civilian ownership in 1975.
