The Early Years of Alcatraz

The first recorded discovery of Alcatraz was by Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala in 1775. The island was named “La Isla de los Alcatraces” which translates to “The Island of Pelicans.” In 1847, the U.S. Army claimed the island and established a military fort to protect the San Francisco Bay. Later on, Alcatraz was used as a military prison during the Civil War.

It wasn’t until 1934 that Alcatraz was transformed into a federal penitentiary, housing some of the most notorious and feared criminals in America. The isolated location and the harsh conditions of the prison earned it the nickname of “The Rock.” The high-profile inmates, including Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly, only added to the notoriety of Alcatraz.

The Infamous Escape Attempts

The unforgiving surroundings and the reputation of Alcatraz as an inescapable prison did not stop prisoners from trying to break free. Over the years, there were 14 escape attempts, involving 36 inmates. The most famous one was in 1962 when three inmates managed to escape the prison. The fate of these men, whether they survived or drowned in the waters of the bay, remains a mystery to this day.

Today, visitors can explore the prison cells and the escape route of the three men through a tour of the island. The prison’s eerie and haunting atmosphere still manages to fascinate and intrigue people.

The Infamous Legends of Alcatraz

As with any place that has a dark and mysterious history, Alcatraz is surrounded by a number of legends. One of the most popular legends is that the island is haunted by the spirits of the prisoners who died there.

The Native American occupation of Alcatraz in 1969 also adds to the island’s mystique. For 19 months, a group of Native Americans occupied the island, demanding it be turned into an education and cultural center for Native Americans. They left a lasting impact on the island, and their legacy can still be seen today.

The Transformation into a Tourist Attraction

After the prison shut down in 1963 due to high operating costs, Alcatraz remained abandoned for many years. In 1973, it was opened to the public as a part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Today, Alcatraz receives over a million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco.

The island offers a variety of activities, from touring the prison to hiking and birdwatching. With its stunning views of the city and rich history, Alcatraz continues to draw people in and captivate their imaginations.

In Conclusion

From its origins as a military fort to its time as a federal prison and now a popular tourist destination, Alcatraz has a long and intriguing history. Its enigmatic past and infamous inmates make it an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a thrilling adventure, Alcatraz is a must-visit destination. So, why is it famous? Perhaps, it’s the perfect combination of history, mystery and legends that have kept it in the limelight for so long.