Alcatraz is America’s most notorious island, and also its most misunderstood. The Rock is actually a 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 talk, former National Park Ranger and historian John Martini will focus both on the island’s infamous history as a federal penitentiary, which operated from 1934 to 1963, and 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 important eras covered in the talk include the Native American Occupation of 1969-1971, Alcatraz in American popular culture (especially the movies), the seldom-seen tunnels beneath the prison buildings, and its evolution as a National Park site.

Please be advised that the Library makes no warranties and/or representation concerning the virtual programs. Your decision to participate in the programs is an express consent on your part to waive any and all claims against the Library which may result from said participation and hereby release and discharge the City of Danbury / Danbury Public Library from any and all liabilities