Alcatraz -- The Early Years

Scientists tells that 10,000 years ago, the small sandstone peak that would later be called Alcatraz rose above ocean waters flooding the valley that became San Francisco Bay. 

3,000 years ago, Indians paddled their reed canoes to Alcatraz hunting for birds' eggs and perhaps fishing from its shores. 

In 1775, Juan Manuel de Ayala sailed with his Spanish warship into San Francisco Bay and charted prominent features, including La Isla de Las Alcatraces (Island of the Pelicans.)

In 1847, California purchased "Alcatraz" from the Mexican government. 

The United States began fortifying Alcatraz in 1853, and Alcatraz Island served as a military fortification in the 1850's and as an incarceration facility for war prisoners during the Spanish-American War. 

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Click on each of the topics below to read about the history of Alcatraz:

Alcatraz the Early Years -- Alcatraz the Fort -- Alcatraz the Prison --
The Native American Occupation -- Natural Alcatraz -- Alcatraz the Tourist Attraction

Click on each of the headings below to read about each of the major areas at Alcatraz:

The Dock -- Guardhouse and Sally Port -- Post Exchange - Officers' Club -- Military Chapel --  Barracks - Apartments -- Warden's House -- Lighthouse -- Cellhouse -- The Gardens

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For tickets and tours, contact Alcatraz Media at www.alcatraz.us,
or call 866-268-8729 or 415-461-4608.