Search results
Alcatraz Island (/ ˈ æ l k ə ˌ t r æ z /) is a small island 1.25 miles (2.01 km) offshore from San Francisco, California, United States. The island was developed in the mid-19th century with facilities for a lighthouse , a military fortification, and a military prison.
- 22 acres (8.9 ha)
- San Francisco, California
- 1934; 89 years ago
Jan 12, 2024 · Alcatraz Island is a former prison and a symbol of American incarceration and justice. Learn about its history, natural beauty, and virtual tours from the official park website.
- 3 min
- Early Years as a Military Prison. In 1775, Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala (1745-97) mapped and named rugged Alcatraz Island, christening it La Isla de los Alcatraces, or Island of the Pelicans, due to its large population of sea birds.
- Doing Time as a Federal Prison: 1934-63. In 1933, the Army relinquished Alcatraz to the U.S. Justice Department, which wanted a federal prison that could house a criminal population too difficult or dangerous to be handled by other U.S. penitentiaries.
- Famous Inmates. Among those who did time at The Rock was the notorious Prohibition-era gangster Al “Scarface” Capone, who spent four-and-a-half years there during the 1930s.
- Escape Attempts from Alcatraz. Over the years, there were 14 known attempts to escape from Alcatraz, involving 36 inmates. The Federal Bureau of Prisons reports that of these would-be escapees, 23 were captured, six were shot and killed during their attempted getaways, two drowned and five went missing and were presumed drowned.
People also ask
What is the history of Alcatraz Island?
What are the natural attractions of Alcatraz Island?
What activities are available on Alcatraz Island?
Where is Alcatraz Island located?
Apr 27, 2021 · Learn how to access, explore, and enjoy Alcatraz Island, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Find out about fees, permits, ferry schedules, weather, parking, and accessibility.
Mar 3, 2024 · Alcatraz Island, also known as ‘The Rock,’ a rocky island in San Francisco Bay, off the coast of California, in the United States. From 1934 to 1963, a facility on the island served as a federal prison for some of the most dangerous civilian prisoners. Learn more about the history of Alcatraz Island here.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Alcatraz Island. 56,175 reviews. #2 of 1,029 things to do in San Francisco. Historic SitesIslands. Write a review. About. Alcatraz Island was once the most secure federal prison in the U.S., and held notorious inmates like Al Capone. After being decommissioned in 1963, the prison is now a museum, welcoming millions of curious travelers every year.
Dec 30, 2022 · Learn about the history and significance of Alcatraz Island, from its military and federal prison days to its cultural and activist role. Find out how to visit the island, book tickets, and experience the past and influence the future.