Alcatraz Island

View of the Alcatraz Lighthouse and Island from the water — Alcatraz IslandPhoto: NPS

Alcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity. This small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal penitentiary. In 1969, the Indians of All Tribes occupied Alcatraz for 19 months in the name of freedom and Native American civil rights. We invite you to explore Alcatraz's complex history and natural beauty.

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Photos

A corridor extends between two rows and three tiers of cells. Skylights let in light from overhead. — Looking down Broadway in the Alcatraz CellhousePhoto: NPS / Dave Rauenbuehler

Ten people in green uniforms and flat brimmed hats stand on and around a red antique fire truck — Alcatraz Rangers and 1934 Diamond T FiretruckPhoto: NPS Photo

A military officer walks between two long lines of roughly dressed men — Army Prisoners in the Stockade, 1902Photo: NPS Photo - Golden Gate National Recreation Area, GOGA 2316a

Cook serving Christmas dinner with menu posted above. — An inmate worker distributes trays near the steam table. Bars separate the kitchen from the mess hall. The day’s menu, the Christmas meal, appears on a sign over his head. The menu includes consomme, stuffed celery, green olives and mixed sweet pickles,Photo: Darlyne Sheppard Alcatraz Photo Collection

Park information and photos come from the National Park Service. This is not an official NPS site.