Alcatraz is inarguably America’s most notorious island -- and also its most misunderstood. The Rock is a virtual layer cake of history, beginning with its first sighting by Europeans in 1769 up through its present status as the top paid tourist attraction in San Francisco. In this online webinar, former National Park Ranger and historian John Martini will focus not just on the island’s infamous history as a federal penitentiary, which operated from 1934 to 1963, but also its lesser-known roles as a Civil War fortress, a political prison for Confederate sympathizers, and a military prison for recalcitrant U.S. Army soldiers and Native American warriors.

Other eras covered in the talk include the Native American Occupation of 1969-1971, Alcatraz in popular culture (especially the movies), the seldom-seen tunnels beneath the prison buildings, the island’s evolution as a National Park site, its now-resurgent natural life, and the challenges of preserving the island’s aging infrastructure.

Zoom webinar details will be sent after registration.

This event is for Parks Conservancy members only—if you are not a member, you can join online here or contact us at (415) 561-3060 to give by phone.