alcatraz island

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Topical Term
Subfield: 
z
Alias: 
alcatraz island

Fortress Alcatraz

guardian of the Golden Gate
2004

A history of Alcatraz Island 1853-2008

2008
As one of America's most notorious prisons, Alcatraz has been a significant part of California's history for over 155 years. The small, lonely rock, known in sea charts by its Spanish name "Isla de los Alcatraces," or "Island of Pelicans," lay essentially dormant until the 1850s, when the military converted the island into a fortress to protect the booming San Francisco region. Alcatraz served as a pivotal military position until the early 20th century and in 1934 was converted into a federal penitentiary to house some of America's most incorrigible prisoners. The penitentiary closed in 1963, and Alcatraz joined the National Park Service system in 1972. Since then, it has remained a popular attraction as part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Ghostly Alcatraz Island

2011
Discusses the history of Alcatraz Island, tells stories of the prison built on the island and the prisoners held there, and shares reports of ghosts and hauntings in the now abandoned building.

Children of Alcatraz

growing up on the rock
2006
Illustrated photographs and essays profile generations of children who grew up on Alcatraz Island; and contains personal stories and interviews with surviving Alcatraz kids.

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