Alcatraz Island, one of America's most notorious prisons, possesses a rich and colorful history. Dating back centuries, Alcatraz Island has been used by American Indians and western settlers alike. In addition to being a famous federal prison, the island's history includes being a Civil War fortress, bird sanctuary, the first lighthouse on the West Coast, and the birthplace of the American Indian Red Power movement. The audio walking tour at Alcatraz is highly recommended.

Alcatraz Island a.k.a The Rock

Howitzer cannons from 1886 still remain from when Alcatraz was a military defense fort

A sailboat in San Francisco harbor - view from the ferry to Alcatraz

View into an actual Alcatraz cell from in front of its bars

Prisoners would often communicate with small notes passed between cells

For those fortunate to receive visitors, this small window was their only communication to the outside world

The Yard - the prisoners only area to be outside - civilization was so close, yet so far and torturous for the prisoners who could hear the bustle of downtown San Francisco at night

A tiny cell, clean bedding and the prisoner manual was all that awaited newcomers

The Warden's home and main cell block on Alcatraz

The Golden Gate Bridge seen from Pier 39 in San Francisco

Afternoon sun over downtown San Francisco seen from the ferry to Alcatraz Island