Alaska’s 185-Foot “Goose Creek Tower” Remains Unfinished After Two Decades
A unique, towering structure in Talkeetna, Alaska, known locally as the “Dr. Seuss House,” continues to rise—though still incomplete—after more than 20 years of construction by Anchorage attorney Phillip Weidner.
Officially named Goose Creek Tower, the 185-foot-tall building is comprised of stacked structures and offers panoramic views of the Alaskan wilderness. Weidner, a graduate of MIT with degrees in Industrial Management and Electrical Engineering, began the project intending to build a modest two-story cabin but expanded his vision after realizing the potential to build upwards using a system of upright supports he called the “eight sisters.” “I put a house on top of a house, and I liked that,” Weidner told Exploring The Obscure in a 2015 interview. “So I just kept going and I just kept going.”
Despite the whimsical appearance, Weidner dislikes the “Dr. Seuss House” moniker, stating, “It’s not a Dr. Seuss house, because Dr. Seuss is fantasy and this is real.” The tower currently features eight decks offering 360-degree views and includes between 14 and 17 stories, stopping short of 200 feet to avoid encroaching on federal airspace. The unusual construction has captured public attention, highlighting the growing trend of unique, self-built architectural projects. Weidner intends for the tower to eventually house his family and serve as a lasting legacy, hoping it will “stand 1,000 years.”
Currently lacking windows, doors, and safety railings, Goose Creek Tower has faced challenges with trespassers and minor vandalism. However, Weidner remains committed to completing the project, envisioning a space for family gatherings and a personal writing retreat, particularly in the octagon room at the tower’s peak. For more on unique architectural feats, consider exploring the works of Antoni Gaudí.
Weidner plans to continue working on Goose Creek Tower as time allows, aiming to create a fully functional and enduring structure for generations to come.
