Episode 2

The Town That Moved Overnight

In this episode of *It Really Happened!*, we delve into the astonishing story of Portage, Alaska, a small town that faced a catastrophic earthquake in 1964, leading to its unprecedented relocation. With the ground sinking beneath their homes, the residents of Portage decided against abandoning their town. Instead, they devised a remarkable plan to physically move their buildings to a safer location in Whittier, Alaska. This episode captures the resilience and ingenuity of a community determined to preserve their home and history in the wake of disaster. Listeners will be captivated by the details of how an entire town can be moved, as well as the emotional journey of the residents who refused to let their memories sink below the waves. From the harrowing earthquake to the teamwork involved in relocating their homes, this story is a testament to human spirit and determination. Join us for this wild adventure that truly happened, and be inspired by the lengths people will go to protect their heritage.

February 14, 2026 · 05:49

## Episode Overview In this episode of *It Really Happened!*, we explore the incredible true story of Portage, Alaska, a town that relocated itself after a devastating earthquake in 1964. Join us as we uncover how the residents managed to move their entire town to safer ground, preserving their homes and memories in the process. ## Chapters - 00:00 - Introduction to the Story - 01:15 - Setting the Scene: Portage, Alaska - 02:30 - The 1964 Earthquake - 04:15 - The Aftermath: The Town Submerges - 05:45 - The Decision to Move - 07:00 - How They Moved the Town - 08:30 - The New Portage in Whittier - 10:00 - The Spirit of Portage Lives On - 11:15 - Conclusion and Reflection ## Key Topics - 1964 Alaska Earthquake - Impact of natural disasters - Relocation of communities - Historical context of moving towns ## Notable Quotes > "Imagine seeing a house rolling down the road like a parade float!" > "The spirit of Portage didn’t disappear. It lives on in Whittier." ## Resources - Historical records of the 1964 Alaska Earthquake - Information on town relocation efforts --- Creator: b4e197c0-4c1b-42c2-92a4-ac58023c5556 | Series: cmllfr2ec0001p908j1yeb755 | Ep: cmlluygid0019od08xo9fms4l

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The Town That Moved Overnight

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