Nearly 75 years have passed since Alcatraz’s transformation from a military stronghold to one of the most infamous prisons in American history. Originally, during the presidency of Millard Fillmore in the mid-19th century, the U.S. government designated the island for strategic military use. In the 1850s, a fortress was constructed along with a lighthouse to serve the West Coast's navigation needs. Over time, the U.S. Army began to use the site for confining military prisoners, recognizing its strategic importance and natural defenses.

However, the military's plans for Alcatraz didn’t fully materialize as anticipated. The fortress, though vital for defense, was not extensively used in military operations, prompting the Army to relinquish control. Subsequently, the U.S. Department of Justice took over, transforming the island into a federal penitentiary designed to house the most dangerous and unmanageable inmates who couldn’t be kept in conventional prisons.

In July 1934, Alcatraz was officially reestablished as a maximum-security prison. Over the next three decades, it gained notoriety for incarcerating some of America’s most infamous criminals. Notable prisoners included notorious gangsters like Al Capone, notorious kidnappers like George “Machine Gun Kelly,” and hardened criminals such as Alvin Karpis, Robert Stroud (the Birdman of Alcatraz), Clarence Victor (The Choctaw Kid), Frank Morris, and Roy Gardner.

Throughout its operational years from 1934 to 1963, Alcatraz was the site of 14 escape attempts involving 36 inmates. Most of these attempts ended in failure—23 escapees were recaptured, six were shot dead during attempts, and two disappeared without a trace, presumed drowned. One notable escape involved a violent confrontation that required intervention by U.S. Marines, highlighting the prison’s reputation for harshness and security. The costs of maintaining the isolated island prison grew increasingly burdensome, leading to its closure in 1963. The federal government decided that operating Alcatraz was no longer feasible due to the high expenses and logistical challenges.

After its closure, in 1972, Alcatraz became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, transforming from a site of incarceration to a historical landmark and tourist attraction. Today, visitors from around the globe come to explore this legendary island, eager to learn about its turbulent past and the tales of infamous inmates and daring escape attempts.

If you’re drawn to the haunting history of Alcatraz, it’s a must-visit location when in San Francisco. The island can be reached via ferry from Pier 33 on the mainland. Visitors can purchase tickets online or buy on-site at the pier. Various tours are available, offering early morning, afternoon, and evening trips, allowing you to experience the island’s eerie beauty and uncover its secrets firsthand.