Pictures took by Mimi may 2008

Alkatraz

The history of Alcatraz is surprising to those that only know the Hollywood version. Civil War fortress, infamous federal prison, bird sanctuary, first lighthouse on the West Coast, and the birthplace of the American Indian Red Power movement are a few of the stories of the Rock. The links above and below will take you to them. These are excellent sources for students working on an Alcatraz assignment as well as fore those planning a visit and wanting to know more.

*In 1850 Alcatraz was declared a military reservation by President Millard Fillmore, and by 1859 troops were permanently garrisoned at the post on Alcatraces for the defense of the Bay Area.

*Alcatraz is most famous for the 29 years it operated as a U.S. penitentiary. This is due in no small part to Hollywood movies which have created their own not particularly accurate Alcatraz, with underground tunnels and haunted dungeons and other flights of fantasy.

*In 1964, and again in 1969 American Indians - many whose tribes were being terminated by federal policy, laid claim to Alcatraz Island. Their 18 month occupation would cause a great change in federal policy towards American Indians that would save the tribes.

*Did You Know?Alcatraz Island, originally called ALCATRACES, was named after the Brown Pelican seen in the area by Spanish explorers. Today the Western Gull and the Brandt's Cormorant are the most common wildlife found on Alcatraz Island.