In a tiny Alaskan town where 75% of the population resides in a single building, Jamie Loan, 36, and her husband Kyle, 37, have made their home. Whittier, with only 270 inhabitants, became their new residence seven years ago when they purchased a waterfront flat for a mere £15,000.
The focal point of the community is the 14-storey tower block known as Begich Towers Condominium (BTI), accommodating most locals and featuring a small corner shop. The remaining residents, including Jamie, live in a smaller residential block or above the town’s café.
During the harsh winter months when Whittier becomes deserted, Jamie faces challenging trips to gather supplies or seek medical care in a neighboring town an hour away. With temperatures dropping to –20C and minimal daylight from November to March, the winters in Whittier pose significant challenges.
Operating a walking and heritage tour business in the summer and working as a supply teacher in the winter, Jamie shared their decision to move to Whittier due to its unique blend of coastal beauty and rugged mountains. Affordable housing in Whittier, like their waterfront condo, was a significant draw for them.
Contrary to common belief, not everyone in Whittier lives in the same building. The BTI, constructed in 1957 for the US military, also houses a small convenience store and serves as the central postal address. The tower connects to the local school through a tunnel, providing easy access for the 60 students it serves.
While only about 25% of the population resides in the Whittier Manor flats by the water, a few individuals have homes above the town diner, the sole public establishment open during the winter months. Shopping options are limited during winter, requiring residents to make an hour-long drive to Anchorage for groceries or medical needs.
Despite the challenges posed by winter isolation and treacherous road conditions, Whittier residents maintain a tight-knit community bond. With limited access to essential services during winter, residents like Jamie plan their shopping trips carefully to ensure they are well-prepared.
Though seemingly isolated, Whittier is connected by a road, a unique feature compared to many Alaskan communities accessible only by air. The town’s employment opportunities thrive during the bustling summer tourism season, allowing locals to enjoy a dynamic lifestyle with breaks during the colder months.
Despite facing extreme winter conditions, including heavy snowfall and subzero temperatures, residents find ways to enjoy outdoor activities like ice skating, skiing, and sledding. The extended darkness in winter is balanced by the breathtaking spectacle of the northern lights, a sight that Jamie appreciates.
In Whittier, the sense of community and shared experiences create a special bond among residents, making the town a unique and cherished place to call home.
