A Walk Through The History On Alcatraz Island
Information courtesy of National Park Service
Out in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, the island of Alcatraz is a world unto itself. Isolation, one of the constants of island life for any inhabitant - soldier, guard, prisoner, bird or plant - is a recurrent theme in the unfolding history of Alcatraz. Alcatraz Island is one of Golden Gate National Recreation Area’s most popular destinations, offering a close-up look at a historic and infamous federal prison long off-limits to the public. Visitors to the island can not only explore the remnants of the prison, but learn about the Native American occupation of 1969 - 1971, early military fortifications and the West Coast’s first (and oldest operating) lighthouse. The island features many natural features as well - gardens, tide pools, bird colonies, and bay views beyond compare.
Alcatraz Island was originally barren of vegetation, soil, and water. The first inhabitants were birds. Through their diet a few grasses were introduced from the mainland. These grasses existed on rain and fog, as there were no natural springs on the island. The vegetation remained sparse until the military arrived in 1848.
During the early fortifications, dirt from nearby Angel Island was brought over to form gun battery emplacements. With this dirt, many native grasses and annuals were accidentally introduced.
After the 1860’s, Alcatraz Island was slowly transformed from a fort into a military prison. Military inmates and personnel arrived to stay on Alcatraz. Homes were built and formal gardens were started. Ornamentals, exotics, and trees were introduced. These gardens were maintained by military inmates until 1934, and flourished under their care.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons occupied the Island from 1934-1963. It was during the time that the gardens diminished, and little additional planting was done. There were no official gardeners,and a few select inmates maintained the main gardens. However,the private gardens of resident families flourished. Vegetables and fruit trees were introduced.
Since the closure of the Federal Prison in 1963, the gardens have been neglected. The plants seen on the island today are what remain of the original gardens. They have survived on their own, existing on moisture from fog and rain. These plants have been protected since the National Park Service took over in 1972. The gardens of Alcatraz provide an unexpected pleasure for visitors, and serve as a constant reminder of the people who once considered Alcatraz their home.
ACCESSIBILITY:
Both the ferry service to Alcatraz and major island facilities are accessable. The SEAT (Sustainable Easy Access Transport) shuttle is available hourly for transport of visitors from the dock to the cellhouse and hourly back to the dock- it is available only for those visitors with a mobility need on a first come first served basis.
INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS:
Outdoor interpretive walks are offered throughout the day by NPS rangers and volunteers. Program titles and locations are posted on the dock and in the cellhouse.
SELF-GUIDED TOUR :
Enjoy the history of Alcatraz at your own pace with this map and written guide. Pick up the Self Guide brochure in English, Spanish, Italian, Spanish, German or Japanese at the dock for $1.00 per copy.
ORIENTATION VIDEO:
Attend a 14-minute video presentation of the Island’s 200 year history - an excellent introduction to Alcatraz.
EXHIBITS:
Several exhibits are located behind the theater, they present the various periods of Alcatraz’s history, including the U.S. penitentiary (1934-1963). A new award winning video (captioned) exhibit, “We Hold the Rock”, presents the story of the occupation by Indians of All Tribes (1969-1971).
CELLHOUSE RECORDED TOUR:
Join former Alcatraz inmates and correctional officers as they remember life on Alcatraz in this award winning 35-minute recorded tour. Pick up (rent) the tour inside the cellhouse. Available in English, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese, and French.
OPERATING HOURS & SEASONS:
The hours of operation vary with the season - departures via Blue & Gold Fleet (Pier 41, Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco) are available throughout the day beginning at 9:30am. Evening tours and combined Angel Island -Alcatraz Island tours are also available. Alcatraz is open every day except Christmas and New Year day. Alcatraz frequently sells out in advance, as much as a week in advance in summer and near holidays.
Tickets for Alcatraz are now available online through the Blue & Gold Fleet - click here to open a new window at their web page.
