In 1943, during World War II, the Whittier area was selected as the site for logistical support for the war effort in Alaska. The first stages were the development of a deep water port and the digging of the “tunnel” connecting the port with the Alaska rail system. Anton Anderson, an Army engineer, headed up the construction. The tunnel currently bears his name.
Built by the Army Corps of Engineers, the “Hodge Building”, was originally for family housing and bachelor officer quarters. The building is actually three buildings. Construction began in 1953 on the “East” end building followed by the “middle” building and finally, the “West” end was completed in 1957.
The building sustained no noticable damage from 1964 earthquake.
The City of Whittier was incorporated in 1969. The “Hodge Building” was transferred from the Army, to the State of Alaska and then was deeded to the City of Whittier in late 1973.
In 1972, Congressman Nicholas Joseph "Nick" Begich, Sr. was aboard a twin engine Cessna 310 along with Congressman Hale Boggs of Louisiana when the plane disappeared during a flight from Anchorage to Juneau. Neither the wreckage of the plane nor the pilot's and passengers' remains were ever found.
In March of 1974, the “Hodge Building” was officially renamed Begich Towers in remembrance of Congressman Begich and formed into a condominium association. The Association has been operating continously since that time.
Built by the Army Corps of Engineers, the “Hodge Building”, was originally for family housing and bachelor officer quarters. The building is actually three buildings. Construction began in 1953 on the “East” end building followed by the “middle” building and finally, the “West” end was completed in 1957.
The building sustained no noticable damage from 1964 earthquake.
The City of Whittier was incorporated in 1969. The “Hodge Building” was transferred from the Army, to the State of Alaska and then was deeded to the City of Whittier in late 1973.
In 1972, Congressman Nicholas Joseph "Nick" Begich, Sr. was aboard a twin engine Cessna 310 along with Congressman Hale Boggs of Louisiana when the plane disappeared during a flight from Anchorage to Juneau. Neither the wreckage of the plane nor the pilot's and passengers' remains were ever found.
In March of 1974, the “Hodge Building” was officially renamed Begich Towers in remembrance of Congressman Begich and formed into a condominium association. The Association has been operating continously since that time.