Alcatraz Island has had a long history based around security and isolation. Over a mile offshore in the middle of San Francisco Bay, it opened in 1850 as a military fortress and stockade. The location was perfect because of the cold and choppy water surrounding it and lots of sharks swimming there. In the 1930s, “The Rock” was converted to a federal penitentiary, where “the worst of the worst” were held. The prison was thought to be escape-proof, so dangerous criminals who needed more discipline and harshness about reality were housed there. However, such a dark and dangerous place ends up being known as a haunted location. Cell 14-D is referred to as “The Hole” because it’s small, dark, and solitary. Arguably the most infamous ghost said to linger is Robert “Birdman” Stroud. Today, his old cell does have a creep factor to it, with the large mugshot that greets visitors there, which I can personally attest to. In my opinion, the eeriest part of the prison is the hospital ward. It has a quiet vibe to it that unnerves you almost immediately. Even I was surprised how much it affected me, and the rangers and guides working there completely agreed. This is one place that is highly recommended, even during the daytime. Have you ever been to this imposing island that’s just a short ferry ride from Pier 39?
Haunted Alcatraz
