30 Facts About Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary

The Infamous Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, often just called Alcatraz, is one of the most notorious prisons in American history. Located on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay, it has a rich history filled with fascinating facts.

1. Alcatraz operated as a federal prison from 1934 to 1963.
2. The island was originally used as a military fortification and prison before becoming a federal penitentiary.
3. Alcatraz is often referred to as "The Rock" due to its isolated location and rocky terrain.
4. The prison was designed to house the most dangerous criminals who were considered escape risks.
5. Alcatraz had a maximum capacity of 336 inmates but usually housed around 260.

Famous Inmates

Many infamous criminals were held at Alcatraz, making it a place of legends and stories.

6. Al Capone, the notorious gangster, was one of the most famous inmates.
7. George "Machine Gun" Kelly, another well-known criminal, served time at Alcatraz.
8. Robert Stroud, known as the "Birdman of Alcatraz," spent 17 years on the island.
9. Alvin "Creepy" Karpis, a member of the Barker-Karpis gang, was the longest-serving inmate.
10. James "Whitey" Bulger, a notorious mob boss, was also imprisoned there.

Escape Attempts

Despite its reputation for being inescapable, there were several daring escape attempts.

11. There were 14 known escape attempts involving 36 inmates.
12. The most famous escape attempt occurred in 1962 when Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers disappeared.
13. The trio used makeshift tools to dig through the walls of their cells.
14. They created lifelike dummy heads to fool the guards during bed checks.
15. Their fate remains unknown, and they are presumed drowned.

Life on Alcatraz

Living conditions on Alcatraz were harsh, designed to break the spirits of the inmates.

16. Inmates were confined to their cells for 23 hours a day.
17. Each cell measured approximately 5 feet by 9 feet.
18. Prisoners had access to a library with over 15,000 books.
19. Inmates could earn privileges like working jobs or playing music.
20. The prison had a strict code of silence, with talking only allowed during meals and recreation.

The Closure of Alcatraz

The prison's closure marked the end of an era, but its legacy lives on.

21. Alcatraz closed on March 21, 1963, due to high operating costs.
22. The buildings were deteriorating, making it expensive to maintain.
23. The remaining inmates were transferred to other federal prisons.
24. After its closure, the island was occupied by Native American activists in 1969.
25. The occupation lasted for 19 months, bringing attention to Native American rights.

Alcatraz Today

Today, Alcatraz is a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world.

26. The island is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
27. Over 1.5 million people visit Alcatraz each year.
28. Guided tours offer insights into the prison's history and its famous inmates.
29. The island is also home to various bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
30. Alcatraz remains a symbol of American history, representing both punishment and resilience.

A Final Look at Alcatraz's Legacy

Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, often shrouded in mystery and tales of daring escapes, leaves behind a legacy that's as captivating as its history. From its early days as a military fortress to its time as one of the most notorious federal prisons in the United States, Alcatraz has always been a subject of fascination. Its stories of infamous inmates, such as Al Capone and Robert Stroud, add layers to its rich narrative. Today, as a historic site visited by thousands, Alcatraz serves as a stark reminder of America's complex penal history and the human spirit's will to overcome adversity. Whether it's the tales of escape attempts or the daily life within its walls, Alcatraz continues to intrigue and educate those who delve into its past. Its enduring allure ensures that the legend of "The Rock" will captivate minds for generations to come.