National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Media Services

Harpers Ferry Center

Historic Furnishings Report

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

San Francisco, California

Alcatraz Island: Main Prison Building
APPROVED:

Diane Nicholson

Curator, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

January 4, 2005
Alcatraz Island:

Main Prison Building

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

San Francisco, California

by

Mary Grassick

Staff Curator

Media Services

Harpers Ferry Center

National Park Service

2005

Historic Furnishings Report 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

2
Acknowledgments 7

Administrative Information 9

Management Summary 11

Interpretive Objectives 12

Operating Plan 15

Prior Planning Documents 17

Historical Information 19

History of the Structure 21

Analysis of Historic Occupancy 24

 U.S. Disciplinary Barracks Period, 1912–33 24

 Commandants 25

 Prisoners 25

 Military Staff 26

 Civilians 27

 Federal Penitentiary Period 1934–1963 28

 Wardens and Administrative Staff 28

 Timeline of Alcatraz Wardens 28

 Correctional Staff 32

 Medical Staff 34

 Chaplains 35

 Prisoners 37

 General Services Administration and Indian Occupation 40

 National Park Service 41

Evidence of Room Use and Furnishings 42

 Administration Wing, First Floor 42

 Administrative Area, Disciplinary Barracks Period 42

 Administrative Area, East Side, Federal Penitentiary Period 44

 Administrative Area, West Side, Federal Penitentiary Period 46

 General Furnishings 48

 Warden’s Offi ce 53

 Armory 54

 Control Center 58

 Sally Port 60

 Visitors’ Room 63

Contents

CONTENTS

3

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

4

Cell House 65

 Overview, Disciplinary Barracks Period 65

Cell Furnishings, Disciplinary Barracks Period 67

 Overview, Federal Penitentiary Period 68

Cell Furnishings, Federal Penitentiary Period 75

 D-Block, Federal Penitentiary Period 82

 A-Block, Federal Penitentiary Period 86

 Dungeons/Basement Cells, Federal Penitentiary Period 88

General Services Administration and Indian Occupation Period 89

 National Park Service Period 89

Mess/Dining Hall Wing, First Floor 91

 Kitchen, Disciplinary Barracks Period 91

 Kitchen, Federal Penitentiary Period 94

 Offi cers’ Dining Room, Federal Penitentiary Period 109

 Bakery, Federal Penitentiary Period 110

 Mess Hall, Disciplinary Barracks Period 112

 Dining Room, Federal Penitentiary Period 114

Basement 125

Overview, Disciplinary Barracks Period 125

Barber Shop, Disciplinary Barracks Period 125

Shower Room/Bath Room, Disciplinary Barracks Period 126

 Clothing Room, Disciplinary Barracks Period 127

 Print Shop, Disciplinary Barracks Period 127

 Plumbing Shop, Disciplinary Barracks Period 128

 Bakery, Disciplinary Barracks Period 128

Overview, Federal Penitentiary Period 128

Barber Shop, Federal Penitentiary Period 129

 Band Room, Federal Penitentiary Period 131

 Lower Sally Port, Federal Penitentiary Period 132

 Shower Room, Federal Penitentiary Period 133

 Clothing Issue Room, Federal Penitentiary Period 135

Print Shop, Federal Penitentiary Period 137

 Refrigeration Room, Federal Penitentiary Period 137

Hospital Wing, Second Floor 138

 Hospital, Disciplinary Barracks Period 138

 Hospital, Federal Penitentiary Period 143

Administration Wing, Second Floor 159

Overview, Disciplinary Barracks Period 159

 Library, Disciplinary Barracks Period 159

 Assembly Hall, Disciplinary Barracks Period 160

 Chaplain’s Offi ce, Disciplinary Barracks Period 162

 Library, Federal Penitentiary Period 162

 Chaplain’s Offi ce, Federal Penitentiary Period 166

 Classifi cation Room, Federal Penitentiary Period 167

 Auditorium/Chapel, Federal Penitentiary Period 168

 Telephone Room, Federal Penitentiary Period 174

 Offi cers’ Dining Room, Federal Penitentiary Period 175
Furnishings Plan 179

List of Recommended Furnishings 181

 Warden’s Offi ce 181

 Correctional Offi cers’ Lounge 184

 Control Center 185

 Armory 188

 Sally Port 189

 Visitors’ Room 190

 Times Square, Cell House 192

 A-Block Cell 193

 1960s Cells 194

 Kitchen 198

 Dining Room 201

 Barber Shop 203

Clothing Issue Room 204

 Shower Room 207

 Lower Sally Port 208

 Library 208

Illustrations 211

List of Illustrations 213

Illustrations with Captions 226

Appendixes 581

Appendix A: Warden Johnston’s Original List of Guard Stations 583

Appendix B: Daily Routine and Regulations for Inmates, 1956 585

Appendix C: List of Surplus Property, May 15, 1963 587

Appendix D: Description of Control Room, February 1960 588

Appendix E: Descriptions of Cell Interiors by Warden Johnston 595

Appendix F: Shipping Ticket, June 16, 1934, and Transfer, 

 September 1934 597

Appendix G: Optional List of Recommended Furnishings for 

 Federal Penitentiary-Era Cell 600

Bibliography 603

CONTENTS

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ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

6
This report would not have been possible without the support and assistance of 

many generous people who shared their 

time, memories, and expertise. Former administrative staff er Ben Blount and former 

correctional offi cers Frank Heaney and 

Jerry Wheeler provided helpful information about their careers and their time on 

Alcatraz. Former correctional offi cer George 

DiVincenzi shared important details about 

his career on the island, and especially his 

experience working in the Sally Port and 

Control Center. The late Philip Bergen, 

Captain of the Guards from 1949 to 1955, 

provided a wealth of information and patiently answered questions asked many 

times before. His daughter, Patricia Bergen 

Rothschild, was most encouraging and helpful in suggesting resources and contacts, and 

Jean Nelson Meredith of the Alcatraz Alumni 

Association off ered useful contact information and suggestions.

Alcatraz historians have unstintingly shared 

their research and their resources. Chuck 

Stucker and author Jolene Babyak, both 

“raised on the Rock,” made available previously unknown photographs that appear in 

the report. Through their detailed identifi cation of historic photographs, both historians 

have added much to our understanding of 

furnishings in the Main Prison Building. 

Author Michael Esslinger has generously 

supplied us with historic photographs from 

his own collection, and Dutch historian Anne 

Sevigna has kindly made available his important work on chaplains and the religious program at Alcatraz.

Archivists across the country have aided in 

the preparation of this report, among them 

Brother Daniel Peterson, California Province, 

Society of Jesus; Anne Diestel at the Bureau of 

Prisons, Washington, D.C.; Steve Davenport 

at the J. Porter Shaw Library at San Francisco 

Maritime National Historical Park; and the 

staff s at the National Archives and Records 

Administration, College Park, Maryland, and 

San Bruno, California. Mary Gentry provided able research assistance at the San Bruno 

facility. Former Assistant Archivist Kim Sulik 

and Archivist Susan Ewing-Haley at the 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area Park 

Archive and Records Center were, as usual, 

extremely helpful.

At Golden Gate National Recreation Area, 

Craig Glassner, Park Ranger; Ric Borjes, 

Chief, Division of Cultural Resources and 

Museum Management; Rich Weideman, 

Chief of Public Aff airs and Special Events; 

and Theresa Griggs, Operations Supervisor—

Interpretation, have provided ongoing assistance and thoughtful review throughout the 

research, planning, and writing process. The 

project has also benefi ted from the continued 

interest and enthusiasm of Susan Tasaki at 

the Park Conservancy. The support, encouragement, and general good will provided 

by Museum Curator Diane Nicholson was 

extremely important to the success of this 

project and is much appreciated.

Acknowledgments

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

7

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

Claire Hennessey Jenkins, certifi ed registered 

nurse anesthetist, shared her hospitality and 

her knowledge of operating room interiors, 

and Neil Sekhri continues to provide important West Coast support to this and other 

projects. 

In the former Historic Furnishings 

Department, staff curators supported this 

project with their advice, interest, and 

thoughtful comments. Andy Chamberlain 

was particularly patient in his instruction 

and assistance in scanning and manipulating 

illustrations for the report and Sarah Heald 

and Carol Petravage kindly reviewed preliminary drafts. Bill Brown furnished important 

insight and technical assistance during site 

visits.

Finally, special thanks and appreciation go to 

John A. Martini, whose in-depth knowledge 

of the resource, expertise as a researcher, 

insight as a historian, and generosity as a colleague have led to a notably more accurate 

and detailed report.

Mary Grassick

July 2004 

8
Administrative Information

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

9

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

10
The Main Prison Building on Alcatraz Island 

was completed by the U.S. Army in 1912. The 

reinforced concrete prison building, consisting of two stories over a basement, rests on 

the remains of a fort constructed by the army 

in the 1850s and fi rst occupied in 1859. By 

1907 the original fort’s role in the defense of 

San Francisco Bay had diminished, and the 

post was converted to the Pacifi c Branch, 

U.S. Military Prison. Construction of the new 

prison building began in 1908, and it was fi rst 

occupied on February 6, 1912.

In 1915 the post was renamed Pacifi c Branch, 

United States Disciplinary Barracks. It operated under this new title, with an emphasis 

on discipline and the return of prisoners to 

regular army units, until 1933. The prison 

population at Alcatraz during this period 

varied from a low of around 250 prisoners to 

a high of more than 600. However, Alcatraz 

was an expensive post to maintain, and in 

1933 the War Department off ered the installation to the Department of Justice. A new 

maximum security prison on Alcatraz would 

provide the Department of Justice with a secure spot for the worst off enders among the 

country’s rapidly growing prison population. 

The prison acted as something of a deterrent 

as well, becoming a symbol of the isolation 

and strict discipline that awaited those convicts who could not or would not adapt to 

the regular prison system.

The Department of Justice accepted the War 

Department’s off er and transferred control 

of the island and the institution to the Bureau 

of Prisons. At the beginning of 1934 the 

Bureau of Prisons established an offi ce in San 

Francisco to oversee the transfer and transformation of the property into a maximum 

security penitentiary, and by the end of June, 

control of Alcatraz was offi cially turned over 

to the Justice Department.

Extensive remodeling of the Main Prison 

Building, including reconstruction of cells, 

installation of gun galleries, and construction of a new armory, was accomplished at 

this time, along with the construction of four 

guard towers on the island. The fi rst federal 

prisoners arrived on August 11, 1934, joining 

32 prisoners the army had transferred to the 

Bureau of Prisons.

The Main Prison Building is made up of 

three parts—the Administration Wing to the 

south, the Cell House in the center, and the 

Dining Room Wing to the north. The second 

fl oor of the north wing housed the Hospital, 

while the second fl oor of the Administration 

Wing held the Auditorium/Chapel area and 

the Offi cers’ Dining Room. The Cell House 

itself contains three cell blocks of three 

tiers each, designated A-, B-, and C-blocks. 

D-block, which contains 42 solitary confi nement cells, is housed in a separate wing. 

There are 462 one-man cells in the Cell 

House, not including the cells in D-block. 

A Shower Room, Print Shop, and Clothing 

Distribution Area were located in the basement, along with various storerooms (fi gure 

BP10). 

Management Summary

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

11

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

12

The length of the Main Prison Building is 

oriented on a 45° angle on a southeast/northwest axis. The directions used in the historic 

furnishings report are simplifi ed so that the 

Administration Wing is on what is called the 

south side and the Dining Room/Kitchen 

Wing is on the north. During the federal 

penitentiary period the terms “West Gun 

Gallery” and “East Gun Gallery” were used 

to describe the second- and third-tier gun 

cages in the Cell House, although these galleries are actually on the northwest and 

southeast walls, respectively. Directional 

designations in this report follow the conventions used by park staff . 

During the U.S. penitentiary years, the Main 

Prison Building never housed more than 302 

inmates. A variety of other buildings on the 

island provided the intensive and expensive 

support network that kept these prisoners 

fed, watered, employed, and most importantly, supervised. As in the disciplinary barracks 

period, wardens, guards, and their families all 

lived on the island. Fresh water was delivered 

daily from San Francisco to supply the population of Alcatraz, as well as the prisoner-run 

laundry operated on the island, which was 

known as “the Rock.” Power plants, storage 

sheds, industry buildings, living quarters, and 

a morgue were all located on the island. 

Maintenance of all structures on the island 

was relentless and costly. After years of discussion, the Bureau of Prisons determined 

to close Alcatraz in 1963; the fi nal prisoners 

left the island on March 21 of that year. The 

island and buildings were turned over to the 

General Services Administration (GSA), and 

many of the furnishings and fi ttings were 

transferred to other penal institutions within 

the federal system.

The GSA had no fi rm plans for the future 

of Alcatraz Island, although citizens of San 

Francisco and the surrounding area were understandably concerned and interested, and 

a variety of proposals were considered. In 

November 1969 the “Indians of All Tribes,” 

a loose confederation of displaced urban 

Indians, occupied the island, remaining until 

June 1971, when federal marshals removed 

the last remaining occupiers.

Alcatraz Island became part of Golden Gate 

National Recreation Area (NRA) when the 

park was created by PL# 92-589 in 1972. 

Alcatraz was designated a National Historic 

Landmark in 1986. When the site opened to 

the public in October 1973, it was determined 

that National Park Service (NPS) ranger-led 

tours of the island would be off ered for a 

limited time. The tours, an interim measure 

developed to give NPS planners the opportunity to determine the island’s ultimate use, 

proved so successful that they have continued into the 21st century.

Considerable documentation, both written 

and photographic, is available for the Main 

Prison Building. Documentation about furnishings is particularly rich for the federal 

penitentiary period, although there are a fair 

amount of primary source resources available for the disciplinary barracks period as 

well. Records documenting furnishings are 

located in the National Archives, as well as in 

the Golden Gate National Recreation Area 

archives, San Francisco area repositories, and 

private collections.

Interpretive Objectives

The 1998 draft Long Range Interpretive 

Plan for Golden Gate NRA introduced two 

interpretive themes for Alcatraz that can be 

explored through historic furnishings. These 

themes are:

• During the gold rush era, Alcatraz became a critical part of a military defense 

system for San Francisco Bay. Although 

the defenses soon became obsolete, the 

island developed into a substantial military prison. 
13

• During the Great Depression, the island 

was transferred from the military to the 

Department of Justice to become a highprofi le, maximum-security federal penitentiary.

The Long Range Interpretive Plan also laid 

out a list of desired futures for the interpretive program at Alcatraz, three of which can 

be directly supported through historic furnishings installations. Implementation of the 

plan will encourage island visitors to:

• come away with a realistic sense of 

Alcatraz as a federal penitentiary 

• appreciate the island’s military era as a 

prison and guardian of the Bay, and

• see the relevance of the island’s history 

in present society, especially as it relates 

to the American penology system, civil 

rights, and the concept of personal freedom.

The interpretive focus of the site is its history as a military prison and as a maximum 

security federal penitentiary, as well as its 

background as the site of the 1969–71 Indian 

occupation. The 1980 General Management 

Plan for Golden Gate NRA recommended 

using space in the Main Prison Building for 

exhibits. The 1993 Alcatraz Development 

Concept Plan and Environmental Assessment 

revisited and reaffi rmed this prescription. 

This historic furnishings report provides 

documentation of historic use and furnishings for all fl oors of the Cell House, the 

Administration Wing, and the Hospital Wing. 

Historic furnishings plans will be provided 

for the Warden’s Offi ce, the Correctional 

Offi cers’ Lounge, the Control Center, the 

Armory, the Sally Port, the Visitors’ Room, 

selected cells, the “Times Square” area of the 

Cell House, the Library, the Barber Shop, 

the Shower Room, the Lower Sally Port, the 

Clothing Issue Room, and parts of the Mess 

Hall and Kitchen. 

The Main Prison Building operated for more 

than 50 years, and many structural changes 

were made to the building over that time. 

The prison was signifi cant to both federal 

and military penological practice during its 

operation, and written and photographic 

documentation is good for many parts of 

the building. However, most of the interior 

spaces were changed or updated in some 

way, and most of the present fi nishes, fi ttings, 

and room confi gurations refl ect the period 

from about 1961 through the prison closing 

in 1963. With some exceptions, therefore, 

historic furnishings will be recommended to 

refl ect the period between 1960 and 1963.

This report recommends restoration of 

historic spaces and installation of historic furnishings in three separate phases. 

Implementation of the historic furnishings 

plan in stages will allow for thoughtful review 

of the current use of space by the Golden 

Gate National Parks Conservancy (the 

Conservancy) within the historic structure, 

and provide greater fl exibility in funding signifi cant rehabilitation and restoration projects. Ongoing implementation of the furnishings plans will also provide an opportunity to 

review and revise visitor circulation patterns 

and other aspects of the operating plan. It 

is anticipated that this ongoing review will 

be critical in managing the large numbers of 

island visitors in a safe and effi cient manner, 

while providing them with site interpretation 

of the highest quality. 

Phase I

The spaces proposed for the fi rst phase are 

listed below. These areas are all currently 

open to visitors, and some include limited 

furnishings. The spaces are not listed in priority order, and this report recommends installing historic furnishings in all of the areas 

eventually.

• Selected cells, including one 1962 

escape cell

• Sally Port

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

14

• Control Center

• Visitors’ Room

• “Times Square” in the Cell House

• part of the Mess Hall

• part of the Kitchen

• “Lower Sally Port”—the hall outside the 

Shower Room

• Shower Room

• Clothing Issue Room

The 1998 draft Long Range Interpretive Plan 

recommended furnishing two cells to two 

diff erent periods—one to the disciplinary 

barracks period (1912–33) and one to the 

federal penitentiary period (1934–63). At 

the request of park staff , this historic furnishings report recommends furnishing one or 

more cells to the period 1961–62 at locations 

within the Cell House to be determined later. 

This report also recommends furnishing 

a disciplinary barracks-era cell in A-block 

during the second implementation phase. 

A-block cells retain original cell doors and 

locks. Although part of A-block is not currently open to visitors, the complete block 

could be incorporated into ranger-guided 

tours. In addition to the above, the furnished 

1962 escape cells should be retained and will 

be documented with a historic furnishings 

plan. 

Phase II

Historic spaces recommended for the second 

phase of furnishings implementation include:

• Warden’s Offi ce

• Correctional Offi cers’ Lounge

• Cell in A-block—a disciplinary 

barracks-era cell

• Library

• Barber Shop

Restoration of the Warden’s Offi ce and 

Offi cers’ Lounge in particular can begin to 

present the story of the guards and administrators responsible for the daily operation 

of Alcatraz and can introduce the idea of 

the challenge and complexity of operating a 

maximum security prison located on a rock 

in the middle of a bay. Signifi cant physical 

changes were made to the Administration 

Wing just prior to the closing of the penitentiary in 1963; therefore, this report recommends that historic furnishings in the 

Administration Wing refl ect the period from 

1961 to 1963.

The bookstore and audio tour program, operated by the Golden Gate National Parks 

Conservancy, are currently located in the 

Administration Wing and are an extremely 

successful and important part of the visitor 

experience on Alcatraz. Removal of these 

nonhistoric functions from the historic 

interior would enhance visitor understanding of these spaces that were so important 

to the operation of the federal penitentiary 

at Alcatraz. In addition, a rethinking of interpretive priorities in this area can lead to 

an improvement in visitor fl ow through the 

Administration Wing. 

Phase III

Implementation of historic furnishings plans 

for sections of the second fl oor is recommended for the third phase of this project. 

This report includes initial documentation 

of the Hospital, as well as documentation of 

furnishings for the Offi cers’ Dining Room, 

installed in 1961, and the Auditorium/Chapel.

The park anticipates opening the second 

fl oor of the Hospital Wing to the public at 

some point, although selection of rooms to 

interpret through historic furnishings will 

depend on further defi nition of interpretive 

goals for these spaces. Introducing visitors to 

this fl oor as part of the regular interpretive 

program will require signifi cant stabilization 

and restoration of historic interiors, as well as 

a reconsideration of visitor circulation 

patterns. 

Research for this report indicates that historic furnishings used to interpret the Hospital 
15

should refl ect the period after a major reconfi guration of the rooms, which took place in 

1951. The medical facility at Alcatraz was operated by the U.S. Public Health Service and 

was essentially a fully furnished hospital. This 

report does not include a historic furnishings plan for the Hospital, but documents 

the use and furnishings of the spaces on the 

second fl oor over time. It is recommended 

that to develop complete and accurate historic furnishings plans for some or all spaces 

in the Hospital Wing, park and Harpers Ferry 

Center project members involve experts in 

mid-twentieth-century medical history and 

material culture. 

Alcatraz currently off ers a very successful 

audio tour. Most of the above recommendations would require changes to the tour, but 

new technology will enable changes to be 

made more quickly and easily than in the 

past. It is anticipated that experimentation 

with various visitor routes will be possible in 

the future without undue cost or eff ort, allowing the popular audio tour to continue in 

an updated format. 

Furnishings in the Main Prison Building 

at Alcatraz can serve to enhance visitors’ 

awareness and understanding of the administrative needs and complexities of prison 

operation, whether military or civilian. In 

addition, interpretation of areas such as the 

Warden’s Offi ce and the Offi cers’ Lounge will 

introduce visitors to the idea that many men 

worked in many capacities to support the 

prison. 

Accurate furnishings in areas such as the Sally 

Port, the Control Room, the Armory, and the 

Visitors’ Room show the transition between 

the free world and the inside of the prison, 

illustrate the extreme security measures in 

place, and emphasize the very real danger 

that both guards and prisoners faced daily. 

Original architecture and historic furnishings 

combined with the interpretive audio tour 

can provide the visitor with a powerful experience and encourage refl ection on the idea 

of freedom and the concept of incarceration.

Operating Plan 

Alcatraz Island is open to the public every 

day of the year except December 25 and 

January 1. Daytime operating hours vary depending on the time of year; the park is open 

from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in summer and 

closes at 4:30 p.m. the rest of the year. The 

island is also open for public tours four or 

fi ve nights per week, generally on Thursday 

through Monday nights. The island is occasionally used for private events and tours in 

the evening. The evening tour schedule varies 

by season, operating from 4:30 to 7:15 p.m. 

in winter; 4:30 to 7:50 p.m. in fall and spring, 

and 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in summer. Average daily visitation varies from about 1,000 people in 

winter to 5,000 at the height of the summer 

season.

Access to the island is by commercial ferry 

only. The National Park Service contracts 

with a concessioner for the ferry service. 

Once on the island, visitors receive an orientation by island park staff . Access to the 

Main Prison Building is by foot from the 

dock. The path to the Main Prison Building 

takes visitors a quarter of a mile up a historic 

roadway with an elevation change of about 

130 feet. Visitors with mobility needs can ride 

an electric tram that runs to the Main Prison 

Building once an hour and makes a return 

trip once an hour.

Visitors can currently enter the Main Prison 

Building through one of fi ve entrances: the 

main entrance to the Administration Wing, 

the east exterior door to the Warden’s Offi ce, 

the door to the Barber Shop on the east side 

of the building, the Recreation Yard entrance 

on the west side of the Main Prison Building, 

and the basement entrance on the east side of 

the Hospital/Dining Hall Wing. Most visitors 

enter through the Warden’s Offi ce, as this 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

16

is currently the point of distribution for the 

35-minute audio tour, which is delivered on 

digital MP3 players rented for an additional 

fee. This very popular tour covers the Cell 

House, the Visitors’ Room, the Library, and 

the Dining Hall. 

To implement the historic furnishings plan 

for the Warden’s Offi ce, it will be necessary 

to move the audio tour distribution point to 

another location on the island. Distributing a 

revised audio tour at the dock or at another 

location outside of the Main Prison Building 

would provide the opportunity to introduce 

subjects such as the arrival of prisoners on 

Alcatraz, the construction of the Main Prison 

Building, and the exterior of the building. 

The west side of the Administration Wing 

contains staff offi ces, a lunchroom, and a 

park association store. Removal of these 

functions and installation of historic furnishings or other interpretive media in these 

spaces would enhance the visitor experience 

within the historic structure and provide a 

multitude of additional interpretive opportunities.

Visitors currently have the option of touring 

the Main Prison Building with a guide and 

map (for sale on the island) or unassisted in 

any way. Many visitors wander open areas 

of the Main Prison Building after completion of their audio tour. There are 10 wayside 

exhibits, with an additional panel currently 

planned, in the Main Prison Building. In addition, exhibits have been installed in two 

historic areas. The Warden’s Offi ce, where 

visitors queue for the audio tour, includes 

several panels about the prison’s four wardens, as well as self-serve racks for the guide 

and map. 

A costumed mannequin and interpretive 

panel have also been installed in a freestanding Plexiglas case in the Visitors’ Room. The 

mannequin exhibits a reproduction correctional offi cer’s uniform, and the panel text 

discusses correctional staff and the dangers 

of the job. In the Cell House, three cells in Bblock were furnished by a television production company to represent the 1962 escape 

cells; the furnishings have been retained by 

park staff . Cell B-116 has also been furnished 

as part of the audio tour.

The main fl oor of most of the Cell House, 

the second tier of D-block, and the Shower 

Room and Band Practice Room in the basement are accessible to the public. Some parts 

of the Administration Wing and the Dining 

Hall are currently in use as park offi ce areas 

and storage, but as new space is developed 

for these functions in other island buildings, 

these areas may also become available to the 

public. Sections of the second fl oor—the 

Auditorium/Chapel, the Offi cers’ Dining 

Room, and the Hospital—may be available to 

the general public after structural stabilization, clean-up or encapsulation of toxic materials, and installation of improved access. 

These areas are now open only on a very limited basis, as part of ranger-guided behindthe-scenes tours. The Main Prison Building 

roof is off limits due to an unstable stairwell 

and other safety and maintenance issues.

Most cells in the Cell House are closed and 

locked. However, several unfurnished cells 

on “Michigan Avenue,” the aisle between 

A- and B-blocks, and in D-block are open so 

that visitors may enter them. Original sinks 

and toilets located in these cells are blocked 

off with cement or wood. Limited furnishings 

have been placed in some of the cells. Clear 

Plexiglas panels protect the 1962 escape 

cells used by Frank Morris and the Anglin 

brothers. The Hospital, Kitchen, and Gun 

Galleries are not open to the public, although 

occasional ranger-guided tours are given of 

these areas.

Most ranger-guided interpretation of the 

island takes place outside of the Main Prison 

Building due to potential confl ict with the 
17

audio tour route. Most personal interpretation off ered in the Main Prison Building 

takes place because of harsh weather (e.g., 

winter rains), in areas usually closed to the 

public, or in behind-the-scenes tours limited 

to a maximum of 25 people. 

Past staffi ng levels permitted interpretive staff 

to be stationed in the Main Prison Building 

at all times and allowed staff to off er frequent 

behind-the-scenes tours and demonstrations. 

NPS staffi ng for 2003 included a total of nine 

full-time employees—four interpretive park 

rangers, one visitor use assistant, one term 

interpretive park ranger, one student trainee, 

one supervisory interpretive park ranger, and 

one maintenance worker—and carried two 

unfunded full-time positions. 

Two to four interpretive rangers staff the 

island daily, supported by up to three volunteers. Occasionally, interpretive staff includes 

interns hired on a seasonal basis. During the 

evening, the island is staff ed by eight interpreters employed by the Conservancy, the 

park’s cooperating association, along with 

one NPS interpretive ranger and one NPS 

law enforcement ranger. Evening and day 

staff schedules overlap each other several 

hours each day.

One NPS maintenance employee is on site 

fi ve days each week. The concessioner is 

responsible for maintaining the dock, the 

roadways, and the restrooms on the island. 

Additional maintenance staff work on the 

island on an “as needed” basis, both on 

monthly work project days and on special 

projects such as clearing overgrown trails 

or replacing missing doors and windows. 

Additional maintenance responsibilities 

would require an increase in maintenance 

staffi ng.

Prior Planning Documents

The following planning documents aff ect 

the use and management of the Main Prison 

Building, Alcatraz:

Historic Structure Report Addendum: The 

Alcatraz Cellhouse Numbering Systems (May 

1999).

Alcatraz Cell House, Historic Structure Report. 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area, 

National Park Service (May 1992).

Alcatraz Development Concept Plan and 

Environmental Assessment (July 1993).

Interpretive Prospectus, Alcatraz, Golden 

Gate National Recreation Area (1986).

Long Range Interpretive Plan, The Golden 

Gate National Parks, working draft (March 

1998).

The Rock: A History of Alcatraz Island, 

1847–1972, Historic Resource Study, Golden 

Gate National Recreation Area, National Park 

Service (May 1979). 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
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18
Historical Information

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING HISTORICAL INFORMATION

19
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

20
The structural history of the Main Prison Building is covered in the 1992 Alcatraz Cell House 21

Historic Structure Report, and in Erwin Thompson’s historic resource study, The Rock: A 

History of Alcatraz Island, 1847–1972. A brief overview of the history of the structure is presented below. More detailed discussion of structural changes and renovations will be included in the section “Evidence of Room Use and Furnishings.”

As noted above, the Main Prison Building was completed in 1912. The building was constructed on the foundation of a masonry citadel constructed by the U.S. military from 1857 through 

1859. The basement, dry moat, and some storage rooms from the original building remain under the Main Prison Building today.

The Main Prison Building is made up of the Cell House fl anked by the Administration Wing 

on the south and the Dining Room/Hospital Wing on the north. It is two stories high, with 

a basement beneath the Cell House and the Dining Room Wing. The Cell House contains 

four blocks of cells, each three tiers high. The easternmost of these is currently designated Ablock, the next is designated B-block, and so on to D-block, the westernmost block.

The Main Prison Building is constructed of reinforced concrete, with an original exterior 

fi nish of cement plaster. Due to constant exposure to damp salt air, maintenance of the exterior has been an ongoing and expensive concern. The exterior was painted by prison labor 

in 1925, a new asbestos roof was applied to the concrete roof in 1929, and windows were repaired and replaced throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s.1

The southern entrance to the Administration Wing was built with an open arcade along almost the entire front, except for the easternmost section leading to the Commandant’s Offi ce, 

which was enclosed (fi gure EX2). During the 1920s and early 1930s, the colonnade, or arcade, 

was glassed in and a doorway was installed in the westernmost bay (fi gures EX7, EX8, and 

EX9). The arcade was enclosed sometime before 1933, and uniform square windows were installed by the Bureau of Prisons across the facade by around 1940. The Bureau of Prisons also 

constructed catwalks on the west exterior walls of the Dining Room Wing and on the west 

and north exterior walls of the Treatment Unit. In 1936 concrete seats or steps were added to 

the exercise yard west of the Main Prison Building. 2

History of the Structure

1 Building Book, Historical Record of Buildings, Records of Active and Abandoned Posts, 

Alcatraz, National Archives and Records Administration (hereafter NARA), Record Group 

(hereafter RG) 77, entry 393, Box 2. 

2 See Historic Structure Report (hereafter HSR), 19–32, for more information about the Main 

Prison Building exteriors. Architectural Resources Group, Alcatraz Cell House Historic Structure Report, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, National Park Service, (San Francisco: 

Architectural Resources Group, May 1992). 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING HISTORICAL INFORMATION
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22

Alcatraz was offi cially transferred from the military to the Bureau of Prisons in June 1934, but 

renovations required to turn the disciplinary barracks into a maximum security federal penitentiary began in 1933. In general, the renovations focused on signifi cantly improving security, 

and included the installation of interior tool-resistant steel bars on windows and cells, the 

introduction of remote-control cell door locking systems, the creation of gun galleries within 

the Cell House, the renovation of the Sally Port and Control Center, and a general reconfi guring of all spaces within the Main Prison Building to do away with any corridors, crawl spaces, 

or rooms that could not be adequately monitored. The intent was to make Alcatraz “as secure 

as it is humanly possible to make it.”3

The Cell House was originally constructed with spiral staircases at the end of each cell 

block, and three wooden bridges were installed at the south end of each row of cell blocks 

so that prisoners could move directly from the second tier of cells to the second fl oor of the 

Administration Wing. The bridges and most of the spiral staircases were removed during 

the 1933 renovation and steel staircases were installed between the tiers. A spiral staircase 

remained at the north end of A-block for many years (fi gures Bar2, Bar3, and Bar4). The 

spiral stairs at the south end of the block were relocated to their present location outside of 

A-block (fi gures AB5 and AB9). Prior to 1940, the spiral staircase at the south end of D-block 

remained in place, while the staircase on the north end was moved outside of the block, 

mirroring the changes made to A-block (fi gures D3 and D4).4

Tool-resistant and plate steel doors were installed on the fi rst fl oor of the Administration 

Wing, and the doorway between the Commandant’s Offi ce—called the Warden’s Offi ce under 

the Bureau of Prisons—and the Cell House was fi lled in.5

 A stairway from the ground fl oor 

of the Cell House to the Auditorium/Chapel on the second fl oor was added later. A doorway 

from this staircase opened directly into the Cell House, but for security reasons there was no 

access between the staircase and the fi rst fl oor of the Administration Wing.6

Cells in A-block and D-block, the two blocks parallel to the exterior walls, were not to be 

occupied, and their original strap steel bars were not upgraded. Access to those areas was 

blocked off by wire mesh grating. However, in response to a 1939 breakout from the old-style 

isolation cells in D-block, new solid-fronted cells, called the “Treatment Unit,” were constructed on D-block in 1941. A new concrete wall separated this block from the rest of the 

Cell House.7

 Sometime later, in response to a bloody 1946 escape attempt, gun ports were 

installed in exterior walls and gun galleries, and a new staircase was added between the two 

tiers of the West Gun Gallery. 8

The Administration Wing originally included an arcade across the southern entrance, and 

during the military period offi ces opened onto the arcade (fi gures EX1, EX2, EX3, and EX4). 

3 Robert Bunge, The Prison Equipment Research Bureau, to Sanford Bates, Director, Bureau of 

Prisons (hereafter BoP), Department of Justice, November 17, 1933, NARA, RG 129, 4-49-0. 

4 John Martini, telephone conversation with author, March 2003.

5 Bunge to Bates, November 17, 1933, 12–17, NARA, RG 129, 4-49-0.

6 John Martini, telephone conversation with author, March 2003.

7 Erwin N. Thompson, The Rock: A History of Alcatraz Island, 1847–1972, Historic Resource 

Study, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, California, (hereafter HRS) (Denver: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 1979), 437–38.

8 HSR, 54.
23

The arcade was enclosed before the Bureau of Prisons took over the building. The Visitors’ 

Room was installed on the ground fl oor soon after the Bureau of Prisons took over, and 

around 1954 a stairway was constructed connecting the ground fl oor of the Cell House to the 

Auditorium/Chapel above.9

The most signifi cant renovation to the Administration Wing came in 1960–61, when a new 

Control Room was installed in what had been the Telephone Room in the Sally Port. The business offi ces on the west side of the wing were also rearranged and renovated at this time, and on 

the second fl oor “the best offi cers’ Dining Room in the Prison Service” was completed.10

Security upgrades to the Kitchen and Dining Room on the ground fl oor of the north wing 

were made as part of the overall 1933–34 renovation. Around 1941 the basement Bake Shop 

was relocated to a room adjoining the Kitchen and a reshuffl ing of other work spaces took 

place. The Kitchen was remodeled in 1953 when a new partition was installed, a new offi ce for 

the Culinary Supervisor was built, and the fi ve large steam kettles were moved from the center 

of the Kitchen to the west wall.

The Hospital was located on the second fl oor of the north wing, above the Kitchen and 

Dining Room. During the time the military ran the Hospital, from 1912 through 1933, changes 

were made to the original size and confi guration of cells, examining rooms, and offi ces. Most 

of the modifi cations, which will be discussed below in the section on Evidence of Room Use 

and Furnishings, remained through the closing of the prison.11

Signifi cant structural changes made to the Hospital in the Bureau of Prisons period include 

the division of the large open ward into six three-man cells in 1952 and the installation of two 

restraint cells for the use of psychiatric patients in 1957. 

As with the two upper fl oors, security in the basement was upgraded during the 1933–34 

transfer to the Bureau of Prisons. New doors were installed, openings were fi lled in, and the 

southern entrance to the basement was upgraded into a sally port. Sometime in the 1940s the 

Barber Shop was moved to the fi rst fl oor, and in 1955 the Shower Room was remodeled.12

9 HSR, 35–39.

10 William C. Overton, Engineer to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, July 25, 1960, 

Inspection Report, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21. The new dining 

room replaced a small dark room off the Kitchen that had previously served as the Offi cers’ 

Dining Room.

11 HSR, 56–59.

12 Ibid., 64–65.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING HISTORICAL INFORMATION
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24 U.S. Disciplinary Barracks Period 1912–33

The construction of the Main Prison Building on Alcatraz from 1908 through 1911 was a response to the Army’s increased need for a centralized prison for military convicts. The military prisoner population at Alcatraz skyrocketed after 1898, as soldiers returned from the 

Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection that followed.13

In 1896, the main military prison at Fort Leavenworth was transferred to the Department of 

Justice, though it was subsequently returned to the War Department 10 years later. During 

this period, military convicts were confi ned to post guardhouses, and after the return of 

Fort Leavenworth to the military system, the practice continued due to lack of space at both 

Fort Leavenworth and Alcatraz.

The practice of confi ning prisoners on post proved unsatisfactory for a number of reasons. 

First, at many posts serious off enders were mixed with garrison off enders and were guarded 

by garrison soldiers. This not only had a “pernicious eff ect upon young men just entering the 

service,”14 but also interfered with drills and training. Regular posts could not provide solitary 

confi nement for prisoners, nor could they provide services to help reform off enders. Escapes 

from post guardhouses were frequent, conditions could be unsanitary, and it was diffi cult to 

establish a program of hard labor for serious off enders.15

Alcatraz was designated the Pacifi c Branch of the U.S. Military Prison in 1907, becoming 

a branch of the military prison at Fort Leavenworth and serving the U.S. Army west of the 

Rocky Mountains. The post was the responsibility of the Board of Commissioners of the U.S. 

Soldiers’ Home, and prison administration reported directly to the Offi ce of the Adjutant 

General, rather than to the Department of California. 

According to the 1909 Regulations for the Government of the United States Military Prison and 

of any Branch Thereof, the prison was administered by an adjutant, a quartermaster, a commissary, an executive offi cer, an exchange offi cer, and an ordnance and signal offi cer, in addition to the Commandant. A chaplain and a surgeon were also assigned to the prison. Two new 

companies of the U.S. Military Prison Guard were stationed on the island. 

Analysis of Historic Occupancy

13 See John Martini, Alcatraz at War, (San Francisco: Golden Gate National Parks Association, 

2002), 41–47; John Martini, Fortress Alcatraz: Guardian of the Golden Gate, (Kailua, Hawaii: 

Pacifi c Monograph, 1990), 86–87, for a more complete treatment of this subject.

14 Annual report of Fort Leavenworth and Alcatraz Island prisons, 1911, House Document 215, 

(62-2), U.S. Congressional Serial Set, 245.

15 Ibid., 243–52. 
25

Commandants

Maj. Reuben B. Turner, Eighth Infantry, Commandant of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Military 

Prison, Alcatraz Island, assumed command of the prison in June 1907 and oversaw the design and construction of the Main Prison Building until November 1911. Turner, a West Point 

graduate, commanded the two companies of the U.S. Military Guard that oversaw the nearly 

300 military prisoners on the island. Prisoners provided labor, under the supervision of army 

engineers, and civilian specialists performed skilled jobs.16

Other Commandants of the prison included Col. Robert C. Van Vliet, Infantry, who took 

over from Turner and was in command until June 1913. The next commanding offi cer was 

Col. C. M. Truitt, Infantry, a West Point graduate in charge until September 1914. Following 

him was Capt. Charles R. Howland of the 21st Infantry, who commanded the post until 

December 1916. By 1925, Col. William Morrow was in command, and Col. G. Maury Cralle, 

also a West Point graduate, took command in 1926.17

Prisoners

The year before the completion of the Main Prison Building on Alcatraz, the island post 

averaged around 500 prisoners. During the 10 years before the building was completed, the 

prison population at Alcatraz varied from a low of 196 in 1906, to a high of 553 in February 

1912, the month the new prison building opened.18

Prisoners were called “military convicts” and were divided into three classes. All prisoners were 

fi rst assigned to the second class and were promoted to the fi rst class or demoted to the third 

class depending on behavior. Convicts could earn time off their sentences for good behavior 

and could forfeit earned time as a result of misconduct. Military convicts performed hard labor, 

including construction, rock breaking, and prison maintenance six days per week. Each prisoner was assigned a number and was known by that number during his incarceration.19

In summer 1913 Maj. Gen. E. H. Crowder, Judge Advocate General, visited the new prison 

building at Alcatraz. In addition to fi nding fault with the prison’s central location in the bay—

a poor advertisement for military discipline—Crowder shared the same objections that many 

of his colleagues had been expressing for the past 20 years or more: Military off enders and 

convicted felons were housed together, to the detriment of the less hardened military off enders, and little organized eff ort was made to rehabilitate or reinstate military off enders.

Crowder recommended that the military request that Congress change military prison 

legislation to establish a “special detention barracks regime for prisoners.”20 As a result, a 

new law was enacted in March 1915. Even prior to the legislation, however, the Disciplinary 

Battalion at Alcatraz was separated out from general prisoners. The Fifth Company, 

Disciplinary Battalion, and the Second Disciplinary Band, Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Military 

16 HRS, 309; John Martini, Fortress Alcatraz, 104.

17 Ibid., 253. See also Pierre Odier, The Rock: A History of Alcatraz, The Fort/The Prison (Eagle 

Rock, CA: L’Image Odier, 1982), 91–92.

18 HRS, 340; Odier, The Rock, 92.

19 HRS, 331; Martini, Fortress Alcatraz, 110–11. 

20 Maj. Gen. E. H. Crowder to Chief of Staff, November 10, 1913, NARA, RG 92, Records of the 

Offi ce of the Quartermaster General, General Correspondence 1890–1914, in HRS, 336.

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26

Prison were organized in October 1914, and the Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Companies were 

formed over the next year and a half.21

The 1915 law changed the “Military Prison” into the “Disciplinary Barracks,” and “military 

convicts” became “general prisoners,” both changes signifying a shift in the overall objectives 

of the institution. Upon admission, new prisoners were assigned to the fi rst class, which made 

them eligible to be assigned to a disciplinary company. Soldiers in disciplinary companies 

worked only half days and received military instruction and training the remainder of the day. 

For example, in autumn 1916 the Seventh Disciplinary Company was instructed in Military 

Engineering and in Military Art and Singing. At an inspection with full fi eld equipment, arms 

and accoutrements were found in “excellent condition.” Members of disciplinary companies, 

called “disciples,” retained their former rank: privates, privates fi rst-class, buglers, mechanics, 

cooks, and squad leaders.22

Disciples enjoyed other privileges, such as a wider selection of food at meal times, the opportunity to attend night classes, and the use of their proper name, rather than a prisoner 

number. Perhaps most importantly, they were segregated from prisoners relegated to the 

lower classes—at work, at meals, and in the Cell House. The institutional goal was to punish 

the members of the disciplinary company, yet continue their military training and instruction 

so that they could eventually be returned to military duty. This method proved to be very successful; nearly 1,400 men returned to duty through restoration or reenlistment by June 1923.

Prisoners in the lower classes, however, did not enjoy such opportunities. These men had 

been convicted of crimes and issued dishonorable discharges, and were discharged directly 

from Alcatraz when their sentence was complete. Called by their serial numbers, rather than 

their names, “numbered prisoners” worked full-time and did not earn “good-time” credit to 

lessen their sentences.23

Military Staff

Increased military training and a focus on rehabilitation required additional staff , and after 

the 1915 law passed, a Parole Offi cer and Prisoner’s Mess Offi cer were added to the administrative staff at the Disciplinary Barracks. By 1925, the Offi ce of the Commandant reported 

17 offi cers assigned to the post. These included Col. William Morrow, Commanding Offi cer; 

an Executive Offi cer commanding the Headquarters Detachment, and his assistant; a Parole 

Offi cer and his assistant; a Post Quartermaster and his two assistants; a Post Chaplain; the 

Commander of the Guard Company; a Post and Personnel Adjutant, and a Post Exchange 

Offi cer. Maj. Thomas Woodson of the Medical Corps was Post Surgeon and supervised an 

assistant and an Attending Surgeon. One unassigned offi cer joined the post the last day of the 

year covered by the annual report. The following year the commissioned offi cers remained at 

essentially the same strength.

Most of the offi cers had responsibilities in addition to their primary duties. For instance, 

the Post and Personnel Adjutant was also the Insurance Offi cer and Recruiting Offi cer. The 

21 HRS, 335–37; NARA, RG 94, Records of the Adjutant General’s Offi ce, Returns from U.S. 

Military Posts, 1800–1916, Alcatraz. See also Martini, Fortress Alcatraz, 109–110.

22 NARA, RG 94, Returns from U.S. Military Posts, 1800–1916, Alcatraz.

23 HRS, 337–39; Martini, Fortress Alcatraz, 109–111.
27

Post Chaplain acted as Post School Offi cer, Post Librarian, Post Recreation Offi cer, and Post 

Athletic Offi cer. 

Annual reports for 1925 and 1926 remark on the diffi culty of acquiring and retaining qualifi ed 

Guard Company personnel. The Guard Company, Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks 

was responsible for guarding the prison and when not on guard duty, for “handling” prisoners. This could mean drilling prisoners, instructing them in the use of automatic weapons, or 

lecturing on subjects such as guard duty, military courtesy, or personal hygiene. The 1925 annual report pointed out that recruits were not suitable for this type of duty and that “regardless of the number of prisoners confi ned, the number of enlisted men required for interior 

guard duty . . . remains constant.”24

Civilians

Historically, offi cers and enlisted men serving on Alcatraz brought their families to the island 

to live with them, and there was a signifi cant civilian population on Alcatraz during the period 

from 1912 through 1933. In addition to the families associated with the military, there were 

also civilians such as the lighthouse keeper and his family living and working on the island. 

Life was pleasant for civilians living at Alcatraz, and Esther Dudgeon, wife of prison medical 

offi cer Arthur Dudgeon, recalled buying fresh vegetables and fl owers from inmate gardeners 

and enjoying the music of prisoner bands playing at island social events.25

Offi cers’ families and their civilian counterparts could also request “pass men,” disciples who 

worked for the family or assisted with civilian occupations. According to regulations, pass 

men were not allowed to care for children or pets or to deliver mail, money, or valuables. 

Nor were they allowed to eat in family homes. However, former island resident Kenneth 

Mickelwhite recalled a prisoner “au pair” who worked for his family when his father was stationed at the Disciplinary Barracks in the 1920s.26 In general, pass men moved freely among 

women, children, and civilians on the island and acted as servants in offi cers’ homes.

Families were allowed to enter the Cell House at various times, such as to go to the infi rmary or 

to attend entertainments. Esther Dudgeon recalled being allowed in the pharmacy and the sick 

call room. Mrs. Dudgeon also remembered going to the meeting hall, or “Assembly Room” on 

the second fl oor of the Administration Wing to see bands, orchestras, or stage plays. First-run 

motion pictures were also very popular with prisoners, staff , and staff families.27

Alcatraz prize fi ghts also brought together prisoners, guards, offi cers, civilian staff , families, 

and visitors. Oddly enough, the Post Chaplain was responsible for training prisoners for the 

popular prize fi ghts held quarterly on the island, as well as for arranging fi ght dates, scheduling boats to transport the audience to and from the island, publicizing and selling fi ght tickets, 

24 HSR, 337; Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925, and Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, 

Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 

1926, courtesy personal collection of John Martini. 

25 Arthur Dudgeon interview, GOGA 18792, Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) 

Oral History Project.

26 Martini, Fortress Alcatraz, 117–18; Post Regulations, Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, 1932, 41–42, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park 

Archives collections. See GOGA 32473 for photograph of Mickelwhite and au pair.

27 Arthur Dudgeon interview; Martini, Fortress Alcatraz, 118–19.

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28

selecting and matching fi ghters, and rounding up offi cials and ticket takers. (See below for 

more information about the Chaplain’s duties.) 

Prize fi ghts were held in the Mess Hall, which could accommodate 1,000 spectators. A maximum of 500 prisoners were allowed to watch the fi ghts, and all prisoners except those held in 

solitary confi nement were authorized to attend. Off -island visitors were welcomed, as were 

offi cers, enlisted men, and their families living on the island. Forty-eight ringside seats were 

reserved for offi cers and their guests. The fi ghts began sometime before 1918 and continued at 

least through 1930.28

Federal Penitentiary Period 1934–63

By spring 1933 the military had decided to abandon the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks at Alcatraz 

due to the high cost of maintaining the post. In addition to the expense, the unsightly prison 

marring the scenic San Francisco Bay continued to present a negative image of the Army 

to the city and its many visitors. The War Department off ered the island to the Bureau of 

Prisons, which initially turned it down in large part for the very reasons the military found 

the prison diffi cult to maintain. Within weeks, however, the Bureau of Prisons and the Justice 

Department reconsidered, and the transfer was completed in October 1933.

The new Bureau of Prisons had identifi ed a need for a maximum security prison to act as 

a deterrent to the growing numbers of criminals spawned by the economic uncertainties 

of the Great Depression and the crime wave instigated at least in part by Prohibition. As 

Sanford Bates, Director of the Bureau of Prisons, explained: “Something drastic needed to be 

done with the new type of gangster and gunman, the kidnaper [sic] and interstate racketeer, 

that was being brought into the Federal penal system under the new crime laws passed by 

Congress in 1934.”29

The new prison would siphon off incarcerated criminals who were serious security risks due 

to either their notoriety or their extreme behavior, and restrict them so thoroughly that they 

submitted to the federal prison system. Rehabilitation was not part of the program at Alcatraz. 

If prisoners served “good time” on Alcatraz, they could be transferred back to regular federal penitentiaries, although a small number of convicts completed their entire sentence at 

Alcatraz and were released directly into society.

Wardens and Administrative Staff 

Timeline of Alcatraz Wardens

Warden James Johnston 1933–47

Warden Edwin Swope 1947–55

Warden Paul Madigan 1955–61

Warden Olin Blackwell 1961–63

28 Major W. R. Stewart, Executive Offi cer, USDB Alcatraz, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), 

November 13, 1930, GGNRA Park Archives collections. See also Dr. G. Fahrenson interview, 

January 1976, GGNRA Oral History Project. The fi ghts were moved to Fort Mason ca. 1931 to 

accommodate the crowds and may have continued through 1933.

29 Sanford Bates, Prisons and Beyond (New York: The Macmillan Company, 1937), 142.
29

Warden James Johnston oversaw the transfer of the island from the Army to the Bureau of 

Prisons. Johnston was a respected San Francisco banker and civic leader, as well as a former warden who had successfully reformed and humanized prison practice at both Folsom 

and San Quentin Prisons. Sanford Bates felt the Bureau of Prisons was “fortunate” to enlist 

his services, and called him “one of the most experienced and best known prison men in 

California.”30

Johnston seriously upgraded Cell House and island security and directed and trained staff to 

carry out his plan for the country’s most strictly regulated penitentiary, based on the ideal of 

“maximum security and minimum privileges.”31 It was his job, as “number one man” to set 

policy, deal with personnel, and spearhead positive public relations; in the words of his fi rst 

Secretary, “he’s the one that makes all the decisions.”32

Warden Johnston was known as an extremely strict disciplinarian, imposing a rule of silence 

during his early years at Alcatraz, in addition to severely limiting such privileges as visits, mail, 

entertainment, and reading material. However, he was also a fair man. He was accessible to 

the prisoners in his charge on a daily basis, and wrote in a memoir: 

[W]henever a prisoner wanted to talk over his problem with me all he had to do was 

merely sign his name to a printed form of request for interview . . . . I listed the requests as 

they came to me and generally held the interviews the same day or the following day.

Johnston worked with the most desperate criminals the federal system had under its care, and 

he employed such punishments as the loss of the few privileges allowed, solitary confi nement, 

and restricted meals. Overall, though, Johnston’s philosophy, while acknowledging the need 

for punishment, was humane: 

Privileges are limited, supervision is strict, routine is exacting, discipline is fi rm, but there 

is no cruelty or undue harshness, and we insist upon a decent regard for the humanities.33

The “decent regard for the humanities” Johnston believed in translated into a clean, healthy 

environment for Alcatraz inmates. He summed up his beliefs and methods as follows:

Punishment or deprivations are necessary to hold some men in line but the measures taken to avoid trouble are more important. Individual examinations; good medical attention, 

especial care of eyes, teeth and feet; wholesome food with frequent changes of menus to 

secure variety; ample bathing facilities; changes of clothing and shoes; cleanliness in quarters; good library with aid to formation of reading habits; thoughtful regard for the bodily 

welfare of prisoners—all contribute to the ends sought by discipline.34

30 Ibid., 144 and 174.

31 Quoted in John Godwin, Alcatraz 1868–1963 (New York: Doubleday, 1963), 61.

32 Fred Reichel, Oral History Draft Transcript, September 22, 1981, GOGA 18715, GGNRA Oral 

History Project.

33 James Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison and the Men Who Live There (New York: Charles 

Scribner’s Sons, 1949), 174 and 107. 

34 James A. Johnston quoted in Bates, Prisons and Beyond, 176.

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30

To carry out the awesome responsibility of caring for America’s worst criminals, Johnston was 

initially authorized to carry the following staff :

Deputy Warden

Chief Clerk

Disbursing Clerk

Storekeeper

Record Clerk

Clerks, two

Assistant Storekeeper

Secretary

Clerk-Stenographers, two

Power Plant Engineer

Launch Engineer

Assistant Engineers, Power Plant, three

Assistant Engineers, Motor Equipment, two

Superintendent of Construction

Steward

Assistant Steward

Lieutenants, four

Maintenance Foremen, three

General mechanics, three

 and

Guards, 25

Most of the start-up staff were selected by the Bureau of Prisons, with the approval of Warden 

Johnston. The Chief Clerk was an experienced Bureau of Prisons man, Loring O. Mills, “one 

of the best Chief Clerks in the Service”35 who was completely familiar with Department of 

Justice rules and regulations. John D. Miller, a former Bureau of Prisons clerk, was selected 

as Disbursing Offi cer, or Disbursing Clerk, and Edward S. La Van, a bookkeeper from Milan 

Federal Correctional Institution, also transferred in. As a result of Depression-era budget 

constraints, established salaries were cut by 15 percent across the board for fi scal year 1934, 

and a 10 percent cut was planned for the following year. Salaries ranged from the guards’ 

$1,680 per year, before cuts, to the Warden’s $6,500.

Civilians working for the military at the time of the transfer of the island to the Department 

of Justice were transferred to the Department’s payroll. These positions included engineers, 

maintenance foremen, and the Superintendent of Construction. Salaries ranged from $1,860 

to $2,600, with all but one position earning more than the guards did.36

Fred Reichel, as Warden Johnston’s fi rst Secretary, was responsible for opening all the institutional mail, answering telephone calls, and preparing the Warden’s correspondence. His days 

35 W. T. Hammack, Assistant Director, [BoP], to James A. Johnston, December 14, 1933, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

36 W. T. Hammack, Assistant Director, [BoP], to James A. Johnston, December 14, 1933, and 

Director [BoP] to Honorable William B. Oliver, Chairman, Sub-Committee on Appropriations, 

House of Representatives, January 23, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937; HRS, 371.
31

were long, as the Warden often spent part of his day at the federal building in San Francisco, 

returning to the island in the late afternoon and wanting to continue to work until 8:00 p.m. 

or later. Reichel also worked until 1:00 p.m. on Saturdays, as was the custom at the time. The 

Warden wanted the offi ce manned on Sundays and holidays, too, so the clerical staff established a rotation system to provide coverage during those times.37

The Associate or Deputy Warden was responsible for the “inner workings” of the penitentiary 

and was in charge of the guards who made up the custodial force. Johnston’s fi rst deputy was 

C. J. Shuttleworth. In February 1937, Shuttleworth transferred out, and former Lt. E. J. Miller 

was promoted to Assistant Warden. 

Chief Clerk Loring Mills oversaw the administrative staff , which amounted to six or seven 

employees, as Fred Reichel remembered in 1981. Mills also dealt with housing issues for the 

guards—called Correctional Offi cers by the Bureau of Prisons—and their families, in addition to acting as Procurement Offi cer. The Disbursing Offi cer worked for the Chief Clerk and 

handled both prison accounts and inmate accounts. Eventually some of the accounts work, 

including payroll, was handled by staff at the federal building in San Francisco. By June 1935 a 

total of 23 men were employed in the clerical and maintenance division.

Warden Johnston’s second secretary was Leon Loupy, who was hired when Reichel went to 

work for the navy in 1941. Loupy typed and took dictation from the Warden, the Associate 

Warden, and the Chief Clerk, in addition to updating inmate fi les.38

Edwin B. Swope was Warden from 1947 until 1955. He was an experienced prison professional appointed from a state prison, but according to former resident Jolene Dollison Babyak, he 

was disliked by many prisoners and staff for “riding roughshod over his offi cers, pitting one 

man against another.” He left “plummeting morale in his wake.”39

Warden Paul Madigan served from Swope’s departure in 1955 until 1961. He had long experience on Alcatraz, and in fact was one of the original nine guards selected by Warden Johnston 

to open the prison in 1934. He had served on the island as guard, lieutenant, captain, and associate warden. As Captain of the Guards, Madigan was bound by prisoners in a 1941 escape 

attempt and apparently talked the four desperate escapees out of sawing their way through 

bars in the nearby Prison Industries complex. 

After that incident, Madigan was promoted and transferred off the island for his own protection, but returned to assume the position of Associate Warden. Madigan has been described 

as a fi ne politician who was tough, extremely lucky, and “cool under fi re.” He was also an active Catholic who was reputed to attend Mass with the convicts.40

37 Fred Reichel, Oral History Draft Transcript.

38 Leon Loupy, Oral History Draft Transcript, no date, GOGA 18800, GGNRA Oral History Project 

and Federal Offenders 1934–1935 (Fort Leavenworth, KS: Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 

1939), 62.

39 Jolene Babyak, Eyewitness on Alcatraz: Life on the Rock as told by the Guards, Families and 

Prisoners (Berkeley, California: Ariel Vamp Press, 1996), 32 and 97.

40 Babyak, Eyewitness on Alcatraz, 74–78, and Odier, The Rock, 205.

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Paul Madigan selected Olin G. Blackwell as his replacement on Alcatraz, and turned over 

his position on November 26, 1961. Originally from Texas, Blackwell worked at the mediumsecurity La Tuna prison for 10 years, then served as a federal jail inspector. He then went to 

Lewisburg Penitentiary, where he served as Captain of the Guard and Associate Warden.

An overall loosening of prison rules, including an increase in the number of purchases 

inmates were allowed to make and a decrease in mail censorship, has been attributed to 

Blackwell. His style was casual and, in line with popular social attitudes of the time, he attempted to relax security and routine on Alcatraz.

A rapidly deteriorating physical plant, increasing operations and maintenance costs, and the 

construction of a new maximum security penitentiary in Marion, Illinois, led to the closing of 

Alcatraz in March 1963. Two escape attempts, one of which has never been conclusively determined a failure, during Blackwell’s 16-month tenure probably did not enhance his reputation; nevertheless, Blackwell returned to Lewisburg Penitentiary as Warden a few weeks after 

Alcatraz’s closing.41

Correctional Staff

In general, the guard staff worked closely with the administrative staff . Correctional Offi cers 

in the mail room censored incoming and outgoing inmate mail, as well as magazines. If an inmate wrote something that was not allowed, his letter would be returned for rewriting. Walter 

Bertrand, secretary to the Warden from 1945 until 1964, recalled that if incoming letters contained forbidden material, the offi cer would cut it out and send the letter on.42

Bertrand was with the Warden when he interviewed all incoming Correctional Offi cers and 

when he dismissed them. In an interview, he pointed out that Correctional Offi cers received 

no extra pay incentive for working on Alcatraz, nor were the hiring requirements for work at 

Alcatraz diff erent from those at other prisons in the federal system. He felt that the type of 

guard changed over the years he was on Alcatraz and that the guards’ level of education varied during that period.43

Johnston’s original allotment of 25 guards was based on a Bureau of Prisons estimate. The 

Assistant Director admitted that “there was no way in which we could defi nitely fi x the number of guards required for the proper care and custody of prisoners on the Island,” and noted 

that Engineer Robert Bunge, an outside expert brought in to consult on maximum security 

prison requirements, had recommended a guard force of 52.44

The fi rst group of guards was made up of nine “alert, energetic and well-qualifi ed” men transferred from other federal penal institutions, and 16 men selected from the reemployment 

register, as required by the U.S. Civil Service. Johnston interviewed these “specially qualifi ed” men, most of whom were California residents, before they were actually appointed.45

41 Ibid., 97–99 and 119–20; Odier, The Rock, 206.

42 Walter Bertrand interview, GOGA 18799, GGNRA Oral History Project.

43 Ibid.

44 W. T. Hammack, Assistant Director, [BoP], to James A. Johnston, December 14, 1933, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

45 Ibid.
33

The four Lieutenants eventually chosen were E. J. Miller, Paul Madigan, Edward Starling, and 

Richard Culver. All transferred from other prisons within the federal system.46

Within months, Director Sanford Bates, Bureau of Prisons, had endorsed Johnston’s request 

for a total of 40 guards, in addition to his request for an additional Lieutenant and seven 

General Mechanics. Two of the mechanics were required to operate and maintain the trucks 

that hauled supplies and equipment around the steep island, and another was required to 

support workshops in the Cell House, such as the Bake Shop and Print Shop. Three mechanics were requested to provide round-the-clock coverage for the fi re station, and the last was 

to be in charge of contractors and prison labor detailed to paint the buildings on the island. 

The Bureau of Prisons supported Johnston’s eff orts, with an explanatory memo concluding: 

“in the interest of safe custody of the institution he should be given the personnel which he 

certifi es as necessary to insure the safe control of the Alcatraz Island institution.” By the time 

Alcatraz opened in August, Johnston had hired 52 guards.47

All the guards were to attend an intensive three-month training course at McNeil Island 

Penitentiary, Washington. The new guards trained in gymnastics, marching, drilling, boxing, 

wrestling, jujitsu, use of gas, and handling fi rearms. They also attended lectures on sociology, 

psychology, penology, and criminology and worked at posts alongside experienced guards. 

Once the prison was up and running, training courses were held at Alcatraz. After an introduction by Warden Johnston, in which he “stressed our standards and outlined the course 

[the guards] were to take to prepare them for a career . . . in a service that is important, worthy, honorable and socially signifi cant,” the Associate Warden, Captain of the Guard, lieutenants, department supervisors, shop foremen, and instructors lectured on such subjects as 

“The Importance of Counts to Insure Safe Custody,” “The Proper Handling of Locks and 

Keys,” and “Correct Methods of Searching Inmates and their Cells.” Upon completion of the 

orientation course, trainees would continue training on posts with experienced offi cers.48

Guards worked in three shifts. The day shift was the longest and usually ran from about 7:00 

a.m. until 5:00 p.m. The night shift then took over until midnight, and the morning shift 

worked from midnight until 7:00 a.m. (See Appendix A for Warden Johnston’s original list of 

guard stations.)

The title “Correctional Offi cer” was adopted in favor of the term “Guard” around the time 

the Bureau of Prisons came into being in 1930, but “Guard” was used both in offi cial correspondence and informally for some time.

Guards and their families lived on the island in arrangements similar to those established 

during the military period. By 1938, housing was available for 51 families.49 However, in contrast to the easygoing arrangements in place when the military operated the prison, families 

were rarely allowed inside the Cell House, and then only to watch movies in the second fl oor 

Auditorium.

46 HRS, 371.

47 Sanford Bates, Director, BoP, to Mr. Stanley, April 21, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937; HRS, 371.

48 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 101–105 and 109.

49 Federal Offenders 1938, (Fort Leavenworth, KS: Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 1939), 

96.

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Medical Staff 

When the Federal Bureau of Prisons was created in 1930, the U.S. Public Health Service 

(USPHS) was instructed to provide medical and psychiatric services for the federal prison 

system. The USPHS operated the Hospital at Alcatraz and provided medical, dental, and 

psychiatric care for all inmates. The Hospital was accredited by the American College of 

Surgeons and staff ed by the Chief Medical Offi cer, one Intern or Assistant Medical Offi cer, an 

Administrative Assistant, and four Guard Attendants. The Hospital also had the services of a 

Visiting Dentist and a Consulting Psychiatrist. Three inmates were employed in the Hospital 

as Janitors.50

The physicians cared for all the prisoners and any guards who were injured in the line of duty. 

Additional equipment, laboratory services, and specialists were provided by the U.S. Marine 

Hospital in San Francisco. This cooperation was essential because, at least in the early years, 

Alcatraz medical staff did not send patients off the island for treatment.51

Either the Chief Medical Offi cer or his assistant was required to be present on the island at 

all times. George Hess was the fi rst Chief Medical Offi cer on the island. He left in May 1938 

and was replaced by Dr. Romney M. Ritchey, who also served as the Psychiatrist. Ritchey left 

in 1946 or 1947, and Dr. R. S. Yocum signed on as Chief Medical Offi cer in July 1947. Yocum 

was followed by Dr. Milton Meltzer in 1951 and Dr. Gerald Hill in 1953. Chief Medical Offi cer 

Benjamin Wolfman joined the staff at Alcatraz on a part-time basis in 1958 and remained until 

the institution closed. 52

By 1948 the job title “Guard Attendants” was changed to “Medical Technical Assistants”; 

they were trained nurses who were also responsible for custodial care. Medical Technical 

Assistants (MTAs) were often the fi rst to assess prisoners’ medical complaints. Warren Hack, 

an MTA during the late 1940s and early 1950s recalled:

[A]t fi rst before we had a sick call in the cell house all the sick call was held up here [in 

the Hospital] . . . . So the fi rst to see the inmate would be the MTA. He would listen to the 

inmate’s complaint and help evaluate whether the inmate needed to be seen by a doctor. 

Usually if they requested to be seen by a doctor we always let them do it.53

In a 1978 interview Hack explained that most of the MTAs were former chief hospital corpsmen from the army or navy. Each had three or four specialty fi elds such as X-ray work, laboratory work, or physiotherapy, and in a year-long probation with the USPHS they were expected to pick up at least two more areas of expertise.54

50 Federal Offenders 1934–1935, 63, and George Hess, Chief Medical Offi cer to Director, BoP, 

July 18, 1935, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

51 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 248, and Malcolm T. MacEachern, Associate Director, American College of Surgeons, to James Johnston, Warden, September 4, 1936, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-9.

52 James Johnston to Sanford Bates, January 21, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-9; Federal Offenders 1938, 98. See also Medical 

Personnel fi les (Yocum) and Hospital fi les in Alcatraz Main Prison Building HFR research materials, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

53 Warren Hack interview, January 7, 1978. Transcript in GGNRA Park Archives collection.

54 Ibid.
35

In 1948, the Hospital’s Dental Department was authorized to hire an inmate technician. At 

that time, the Dental Department had the services of Dr. Eugene Hess only two or three days 

a week, and a considerable backlog in dental care had developed. The Warden permitted one 

inmate to assist with the work, and according to Warren Hack:

he would help out in the dental department, he would help out in the sick call and then 

the rest of the day his jobs were helping out with the patients . . . . I understand that at 

times there were two assigned to the hospital. But generally speaking there was just one.55

Upon arrival at Alcatraz, each prisoner was examined by the Chief Medical Offi cer and an assistant “to check for contraband, and to determine if they have any contagious diseases, etc.” A 

30-day observation period was instituted, during which prisoners were confi ned to their cells, 

given a thorough physical, including laboratory studies, and examined by the psychiatrist.56

Sick call was held daily in the Hospital when the penitentiary opened, but it was soon transferred to the Cell House. MTAs saw inmates after the noon meal and treated minor complaints. The Chief Medical Offi cer examined and treated more serious cases in the Hospital.57

Although many accounts of the ironclad rules and procedures at Alcatraz emphasize that 

women were prohibited from entering the Cell House, on at least one occasion in 1948 Miss 

Richardson and Miss Plake accompanied Dr. Sidney P. Cooper from the U.S. Marine Hospital 

to assist with an inmate operation. Walter Bertrand, Secretary to the Warden at that time, recalled “pandemonium” caused by the presence of the women in the Cell House.58

Chaplains

According to Federal Off enders 1935–1936, a yearly report on the work of the Bureau of 

Prisons, the Protestant Resident Chaplain at Alcatraz was “responsible for the arrangement 

and schedule of religious services, the conduct of educational and welfare work and supervision of the Library.”59 Protestant and Catholic Chaplains held services on alternate Sundays, 

and the Jewish Committee of Personal Service in San Francisco arranged with the Warden to 

hold services in the Cell House on the main Jewish holidays. Chaplains also used “personal 

counseling and suggested reading” to guide inmates in “reading habits and conduct.”60

The fi rst Protestant services at the penitentiary were conducted by Rev. Ezra Van Nuys, a 

Presbyterian pastor from San Francisco whom Warden Johnston knew personally. Catholic 

services were held by Father Louis J. Miller, also of San Francisco.61 The fi rst resident 

55 Ibid.

56 Federal Offenders, 1936–1937; Annual Report of Medical Activities, June 30, 1948, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

57 Annual Report of Medical Activities, July 17, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21.

58 Annual Report of Medical Activities, June 30, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 6 and Walter Bertrand interview.

59 Federal Offenders, 1935–1936, (Leavenworth, Kansas: Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 

1937.)

60 Federal Offenders, 1939 (Leavenworth, Kansas: Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 1940), 31.

61 James Johnston to Dr. F. Lovell Bixby, Assistant Director, BoP, November 26, 1934, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

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Protestant Chaplain took up his appointment on June 1, 1935. He subsequently became ill and 

resigned before June 1936.62

Resident Chaplain Wayne L. Hunter took up his appointment in October 1936 and found that 

enthusiasm for religion was lacking at Alcatraz: “[T]he turn out for the Protestant religious 

services here is anything but encouraging . . . . It is not my expectation that any miraculous 

work will be done here in building up the attendance at the Protestant Religious services.” 

Hunter did feel, however, that Father Joseph M. Clark, the Catholic priest, was doing “very 

creditable” work in increasing attendance at Catholic services. Clark began his service on 

Alcatraz in 1935 and left in 1942 to become a Chaplain in the U.S. Army. He returned to 

Alcatraz in 1946 and continued to serve until 1952.63

Although attendance at Protestant services was low—usually only about a dozen of the more 

than 200 prisoners showed up—interest on the part of the Catholic prisoners was more pronounced. Hunter felt that overall, religion played a very small part in the lives of his charges: 

The Catholics outnumber the non-Catholics by only a small percentage, but probably by 

a great deal more in regard to previous church attendance. Many of the non-Catholics 

boast of the fact that they have never been to church in their lives. Generally speaking, the 

men are quite narrow in their religious thinking.64

Hunter also pointed out that “the Chaplain of Alcatraz is something of a jack-of-all-trades,” 

referring to his responsibilities overseeing the educational program, library, and music programs, as well as his involvement with the limited inmate recreational program. Hunter also 

held non-denominational services for residential staff and their families, and even coached 

the teachers of the parent-led island Sunday school.65

In 1947, Chaplain Byron Eshelman complained that “other details” and “superfi cial work” 

took up so much of his day, that his time counseling inmates, “the choice portion of the 

work,” was limited. In particular he mentioned the 25–30 hours per week he spent on correspondence courses and managing the Library. He concluded that “time never falls heavy on 

the chaplain’s hands.”66

The Chaplain could supplement his religious eff orts not only with religious books available in 

the Library, but with audiovisual material as well. The Education and Welfare Budget for 1948 

included funding for religious recordings, slide pictures, and motion pictures, in addition to 

printed bulletins.67

62 Federal Offenders, 1934–1935 and Federal Offenders, 1935–1936.

63 Wayne Hunter, Chaplain to James Johnston, Warden, November 1, 1936, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters), 1930–1937; Anne G. Sevigna, “Good Men on 

the Rock: The Religious Side of Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary” (unpublished Internet article, 

June 2001), 25.

64 Wayne Hunter, Chaplain, to The Federal Council Committee on Prison Chaplains, January 6, 

1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters), 1930–1937.

65 Wayne Hunter, Chaplain, to The Federal Council Committee on Prison Chaplains, April 7, 

1937 , NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters), 1930–1937.

66 Byron Eshelman, Chaplain to Warden James A. Johnston, et al., February 1947, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

67 E. B. Swope, Warden to BoP, July 9, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 15.
37

Resident Chaplains were assisted by visiting priests, who conducted services when Chaplains 

were off the island. They also occasionally had the help of an inmate server. The Chaplain had 

inmate help in the Library as well, with four assistants to circulate books and magazines.68

Byron E. Eshelman was appointed Protestant Chaplain in July 1946 and remained until November 1949. The Reverend S. Paddock was the next Chaplain, soon followed by 

Reverend R. F. Winkelman, who started working in July 1950. Winkelman left in June 1952 

and was succeeded by Edgar H. Bradley, who remained until 1956. The Reverend Peter 

McCormack came to the island as a part-time Chaplain in June 1956 and left the following 

October after a run-in with Warden Madigan.

As mentioned above, Father Joseph M. Clark served two appointments as resident Catholic 

Chaplain on Alcatraz. While he was serving in World War II, he was replaced by Father James 

J. Lyons. When Father Clark left Alcatraz for the second time in 1952, his successor was Father 

Richard J. Scannell, who worked on the island until 1958. From 1958 through the penitentiary’s closing in 1963, Father James E. Tupy served as the Roman Catholic Chaplain.69 (See below 

for more information about the Chaplain’s duties.)

Prisoners

Alcatraz was a prison of “maximum custody with minimum privileges,” its inmates “perplexing problem cases”70 transferred from within the federal penitentiary system. They were, in 

the words of Warden James Johnston: 

their most troublesome prisoners—habituals, incorrigibles, gangsters whose associations 

should be disrupted, men with long criminal records, men with long prison records, men 

wanted by other jurisdictions for additional crimes and escape artists who showed ingenuity in securing weapons and instigating violence in escapes from other institutions.71

No convicts were sentenced directly to Alcatraz. Because Alcatraz inmates were transferred 

from other prisons, classifi cation committees at those institutions completed reports and 

recommendations for the prisoners before they arrived on the island. Parole planning was restricted because good behavior at Alcatraz resulted in transfer to a lower security prison.

Prison offi cials tried not to release prisoners from Alcatraz. In most cases, prisoners nearing 

release were transferred to an institution near where they were due to be released. However, 

if the prisoner intended to live in the San Francisco area after parole, and if local probation 

offi cers could work out an appropriate release program, inmates were occasionally released 

directly from Alcatraz.72

By September 1934, 211 prisoners were installed at Alcatraz. The fi rst 32 were the men left 

behind by the army. Over the next month, additional prisoners were sent from McNeil Island, 

68 Sevigna, “Good Men on the Rock,” 9, and Wayne Hunter, Chaplain, to The Federal Council 

Committee on Prison Chaplains, April 7, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters), 1930–1937.

69 Sevigna, “Good Men on the Rock,” 18–20. See also Godwin, Alcatraz 1868–1963, 147–61.

70 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 15–16.

71 Ibid.

72 Federal Offenders, 1938, 97.

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Washington; Atlanta, Georgia; Lewisburg, Pennsylvania; Washington, D.C.; and Leavenworth, 

Kansas. By June 1935, the end of the 1934–35 fi scal year, the population was 242. During the 

period 1935 through 1960 the average prisoner population at Alcatraz was 263. The highest 

average population was recorded as 309 prisoners in 1938, and the lowest was recorded as 

222 in 1947.73

Convicts arriving at Alcatraz were usually taken through the Lower Sally Port, where their 

chains were removed and their receiving orders inspected, then to the Clothing Issue Room 

and Shower Room area in the basement. They were generally greeted by the Associate 

Warden, although sometimes the Warden himself supervised arrivals. Prisoners were then 

examined by the Medical Offi cer for signs of illness and for concealed drugs. After showering, convicts were issued clothing stamped with their new Alcatraz number, in addition to 

bedding, towels, and other personal care items. Finally, the Captain of the guards or another 

Correctional Offi cer addressed the newcomer.

One former employee remembered that new inmates were fi rst brought into the Visiting 

Room on the ground fl oor to be stripped and searched and then taken through the cell block 

and down the stairs to the Shower Room. Former convict Nathan Williams wrote in his autobiography that when he was fi rst processed during Warden Swope’s tenure, he picked up a 

package containing his new uniform and was led naked up the fl ight of stairs to the cell block. 

However, former Correctional Offi cer and Captain of the Guard Phil Bergen denied that inmates were paraded naked down “Broadway”—the central north-south corridor separating 

Blocks B and C.Former convict Robert Guilford remembered changing into his new uniform 

on benches in the downstairs hallway before being escorted to the cell block.74

As mentioned above, convicts were initially segregated from the general prison population 

upon arrival at Alcatraz. They remained under observation on B-block along Broadway for 

30 days, during which time they were examined by the Medical Offi cer and assessed by the 

prison psychiatrist. They were also tested for literacy by the Chaplain.75

Soon after their arrival, new inmates were interviewed by the Warden and the Associate 

Warden. James Quillen remembered his intake interview with Warden James Johnston on 

August 29, 1942: 

It seemed like a long walk from the top tier of C Block, where we had been assigned cells 

the previous night, to the interview area under the west gun gallery by the mess hall door. 

At this point, I was very nervous and concerned as to how well this meeting would go . . . . 

As I approached the desk, I was very conscious of the number of administrative personnel who were present. In addition to the Warden, there were also the Associate Warden, 

the Captain of the Guards and the Day Lieutenant . . . . The interview started off with the 

73 Federal Offenders, 1934–1935, 62; Federal Offenders, 1940, (Leavenworth, Kansas: Federal 

Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 1941), 33; HRS, 415.

74 Walter Bertrand interview; Nathan Glenn Williams, From Alcatraz to the White House

(Seattle: Willjoy Publishing, 1991), 199; Philip Bergen Oral History, August 12, 1991, Alcatraz 

Oral History Project, GGNRA Park Archives collections; Robert Guilford Oral History, GOGA 

18703, GGNRA Oral History Project.

75 Philip Bergen Oral History. See also Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison. 
39

Warden explaining that I had been transferred to Alcatraz because I was an incorrigible 

and an escape risk.76

The rules and regulations at Alcatraz were thoroughly explained. Transfer policy was laid out, 

and escape was discussed “in great detail.” At Alcatraz, work was considered “a privilege” and 

new inmates had to apply to the Warden in writing for a work assignment. New prisoners 

could not ask for a particular job, but after a year of successful work at their fi rst assignment 

they could request a change. Other privileges included having visitors, being allowed to correspond with family members, and using the Recreation Yard.77

Job assignments included working in the rubber mat factory, the dry cleaning plant, the laundry, the tailor shop, the shoe shop, the clothing factory, or the model shop, which constructed 

and reconditioned furniture. Maintenance assignments around the Cell House were available 

for inmates willing and able to do janitorial work or painting. A limited number of convicts 

worked in the Kitchen, the Library, and the Hospital, and surprisingly, two inmates worked 

in Warden Johnston’s home as gardener and cook.78 In 1950, Warden Swope also had “house 

boys” working for him at home.79

A prisoner’s day at Alcatraz was completely regulated and incredibly monotonous. Slight 

changes in the routine were instituted in the nearly 30 years of operation, but in general, convicts were awakened at 6:30 or 7:00 a.m., were counted, went to breakfast, returned to their 

cells and were counted, and went to their jobs outside or inside the Cell House, where they 

were counted. Around 11:30 a.m. or noon they ate lunch, after which they returned to their 

cells or went to sick call. They were then counted again. 

Inmates returned to work at 1:00 p.m., where they stayed until 4:00 or 4:30 p.m. They then returned to their cells, where they were counted. Dinner was sometime between 4:30 and 5:00 

p.m.; after dinner they returned to their cells where they were again counted. Inmates could 

then play musical instruments, read, or in later years, listen to radio headsets until lights out. 

They were counted during the night, as well.80 (See Appendix B for an example of the daily routine established under Warden Paul Madigan in 1956.)

Weekends provided some variety, by way of religious services and bimonthly motion picture 

off erings. Showers were scheduled twice a week—more frequently for kitchen workers—and 

recreation in the Recreation Yard was off ered on weekends and holidays. It is no wonder 

Warden Johnston advised one young man serving out a life sentence: “Don’t try to do that life 

sentence in one day. Do it one day at a time.”81

76 Jim Quillen, Alcatraz from Inside (San Francisco, California: Golden Gate National Park Association, 1991), 57.

77 Ibid., 57–58.

78 Philip Bergen Oral History.

79 E. B. Swope to Evening Watch Lieutenant, January 4, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

80 Paul Madigan, Institution Rules and Regulations, United States Penitentiary, Alcatraz, 

California. Revised, 1956, reprint, (San Francisco, California: Golden Gate National Parks Association, 1983), 4–5, and Nova F. Stucker, Custodial Manager, “Daily Routine for Work and 

Counts,” March 21, 1949, Morris Ordway Collection, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

81 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 175.

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General Services Administration and Indian Occupation

As noted above, several factors led to the closing of Alcatraz. The prison was increasingly expensive to operate. The severely deteriorated physical plant presented a grave security risk as 

it stood, and an enormous expense to rebuild or repair. In addition, a new federal maximum 

security prison at Marion, Illinois, was nearing completion. The decision to replace Alcatraz 

had already been made, but Attorney General Robert Kennedy offi cially approved it in 1963.82

The last prisoner left Alcatraz Island on March 21, 1963, and the Department of Justice turned 

over the island and its buildings to the General Services Administration (GSA) in April of that 

year. GSA was responsible for the island until the Federal Government determined its ultimate disposition. Meanwhile, caretakers John and Marie Hart and Bill Doherty lived on and 

cared for the island.83

GSA surveyed various government agencies, including the Department of the Interior, about 

the property, but none had any interest. Next, a presidential commission was appointed to 

study proposals and decide the ultimate use of the island. Soon after the commission’s fi rst 

meeting on the island in March 1964, a group of Bay Area Indians fi led a claim for Alcatraz. 

The group proposed to use Alcatraz as the site for an Indian cultural center and university. 

The commission never determined a new use for the land, and GSA retained control of the 

property. 

In 1968, the City of San Francisco solicited proposals for recreational use for Alcatraz. 

Although many proposals were submitted from a variety of constituents, in September 1969 

the city selected a plan for commercial redevelopment that was so distasteful to most of the 

city that the negative public response encouraged the Department of the Interior to reconsider its involvement. GSA then gave the Department of the Interior until the beginning of 

December to determine an appropriate recreational use for the site. 

Meanwhile, a group of Bay Area Indians occupied the island on November 20, 1969. The 

group called itself the “Indians of All Tribes” and claimed the land for use as a center for 

Native American studies, a spiritual center, an ecology center, a training school, and a museum. The occupation of the island attracted national media attention as well as a great deal 

of national support for the Indian activists. In a message to the Federal Government via the 

Department of Interior, the group explained they were making a “stand for self-determination . . . on Alcatraz” and invited the government “to acknowledge the justice of our claim.”84

The Indian occupation of the island lasted until June 11, 1971. During that time many activists—men, women, and children—came and went. While they were on the island, the occupiers 

used a variety of abandoned structures, including the Cell House. The Kitchen and Mess Hall in 

particular were called into almost constant use, with food preparation for the fl uctuating population an ongoing task. The Mess Hall was used for meetings, a primary school was established 

for a time in the Auditorium, and some set up sleeping and living quarters in cells.85

82 HRS, 452; Babyak, Eyewitness on Alcatraz, 95, 119–120.

83 Pierre Odier, The Rock, 226.

84 Troy R. Johnson, We Hold the Rock: The Indian Occupation of Alcatraz, 1969 to 1971 (San 

Francisco: Golden Gate National Parks Association, 1997), 21. See also HRS, 463–68 and 

Johnson, We Hold the Rock, 9–21.

85 Johnson, We Hold the Rock, 28–29. See also fi gure C24.
41

As time passed, life on Alcatraz became increasingly diffi cult for the occupiers. The island itself had always been a dangerous place, and the abandoned buildings were in poor condition. 

In January 1970, 13-year old Yvonne Oakes died after falling over a railing. Within months, the 

barge supplying water to the island was removed. Dissention among the occupiers themselves 

was reported.86

Shortly after the water supply was cut off , a fi re destroyed the Commandant’s house, the lighthouse-keeper’s residence, and other historic structures. On May 27, 1970, the government 

announced that control of the island would be transferred to the Department of the Interior. 

GSA cut off power to the island the next day. With conditions on the island worsening over 

the months, the government waited for the remaining occupiers to give up the island. By June 

1971 there were 15 men, women, and children remaining on the island, and on the 11th of that 

month they were removed without violence.87

National Park Service

On October 27, 1972, the bill establishing Golden Gate National Recreation Area was signed 

into law. Alcatraz Island became part of the new National Park Service (NPS) unit that included Fort Mason, Fort Miley, and part of the Marin Headlands. In late 1973, NPS planners 

determined to assuage public interest in Alcatraz by temporarily opening the island to the 

public and providing interpretive tours. Interest in the island in general and the Cell House in 

particular was huge, and Alcatraz has been open to the public ever since. It is one of the most 

popular sites in the National Park System, with 1.3 million visitors each year.

86 Johnson, We Hold the Rock, 36–47 and HRS, 470–473.

87 Ibid., and ibid.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING HISTORICAL INFORMATION
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

42

Administration Wing, First Floor

The Administration Wing is located on the south end of the Main Prison Building. The 

ground fl oor includes the Warden’s Offi ce, the Correctional Offi cers’ Lounge or Break Room, 

the Armory, the Control Center, the Sally Port, the Visitors’ Room, and various other administrative offi ces. 

Administrative Area, Disciplinary Barracks Period 

Lt. Col. Reuben Turner’s 1911 plan for this space placed large offi ces for the Commandant, 

the Adjutant, and the Sergeant Major east of a central hallway. A large Guard Room and other 

staff rooms were located west of the hall. The south elevation of the Main Prison Building was 

fronted by an arcade. which stopped just before the Adjutant’s Offi ce on the southeast corner 

(fi gure EX2). 

East of the hall, Turner installed two vaults, both of which still exist today. At least one of 

these was for weapons storage and formed part of the Armory. The Commandant’s Offi ce included an attached water closet; a toilet was also located in the northwest corner of the wing 

near the other offi ces (fi gure BP3).

A 1930 plan shows the Commandant’s offi ce space unchanged and the Adjutant’s former offi ce divided into two; the second offi ce was occupied by the Sergeant Major. Fireplaces were 

located back-to-back in the wall dividing the Commandant’s Offi ce and what had become 

the Sergeant Major’s Offi ce. The third large offi ce had been partitioned off near the entrance 

door, creating an offi ce for the Executive Offi cer. 

West of the hall was a large Squad Room, with two smaller rooms partitioned out for use by 

staff sergeants. A Phone Offi ce was located near the entrance hall in the southeast corner of 

the Squad Room (fi gure BP3).

A 1924 image of the south facade shows the arcade fi lled in with large arched windows and 

a doorway installed in the westernmost arch leading into the Squad Room. Doors to the 

Adjutant’s Offi ce and the Sergeant Major’s Offi ce led directly to the front of the building, and 

a door in the north wall of the Commandant’s Offi ce opened straight into the Cell House 

(fi gure EX7).

A motto, “Hope Springs Eternal,” was painted over the western portion of the arcade, which 

may have been fi lled in as early as the mid-1910s (fi gure EX5). “The Object Is To Achieve A 

Perfect Character” was painted on the north wall of the Commandant’s Offi ce, presumably 

to inspire convicts who had cause to visit the offi ce. A third motto, “The Stone Which The 

Evidence of Room Use and

Original Furnishings
43

Builders Rejected Has Become The Head Of The Arch,” was painted over the doorway leading from the Cell House to the Mess Hall.88

Three doors led off the main entrance vestibule; directly ahead was the center hall, to the 

right, or east side, a door led into the Executive Offi cer’s Offi ce, and to the left a door led directly into the Phone Offi ce. The door at the north end of the entrance hall led to a second 

hall that ran east/west across the north half of the Administration Wing, separating the work 

space from the Cell Room. An iron gate was installed across a stairway in the east/west hall 

leading to the second fl oor (fi gure BP3).

Window shades, probably dark green or cream in color, were installed in the windows along 

the south facade during the disciplinary barracks period. Sometime before 1929 dark awnings 

were also installed over the large windows in the general offi ce area and the Executive Offi ce 

(fi gure EX9).

Evidence about offi ce furnishings during this period is sparse. A March 1913 response to a request from the Alcatraz quartermaster for offi ce furniture promised him four fi ling cases, one 

with shelves and one with drawers; four offi ce armchairs; two revolving typewriter chairs, and 

two revolving offi ce chairs.89 Note that since the military also maintained offi ces outside of 

the Main Prison Building, some of the furniture may have been intended for offi ces in other 

locations. However, since the Main Prison Building had been open for only a year by the time 

of this 1913 request, it is reasonable to assume that additional furniture was required around 

this time. 

When the army transferred control of the island to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934, it also 

passed along furnishings, supplies, and equipment free of charge to the new prison. By the 

end of July 1934, the U.S. Penitentiary at Alcatraz had received thousands of surplus items 

from the army. The surplus included offi ce furnishings such as 84 wire desk baskets, eight 

polished glass plate desk tops, three fi ling cabinets, one three-drawer offi ce desk, a wooden 

rolltop desk, and a single school desk. Although the army transferred the glass desk tops, indicating that there had been eight desks with work areas measuring 19 ̋ × 24 ̋ on site, the desks 

themselves did not convey.

The army also transferred all of their window shades, including 139 shades measuring 45 ̋ × 

120 ̋, presumably installed on the Main Prison Building windows. Of the nearly 200 shades 

transferred, only two are described as “green” on the receiving report, which may imply that 

the standard window shade color was cream.90

88 The motto over the mess hall door is still visible, but is obscured by the West Gun Gallery. The 

motto in the Warden’s Offi ce was painted over in the mid-1980s; photographs of the wall 

were taken before the painting was done and are housed in NPS Interpretive Research Files 

on the island. The motto on the south façade is visible in a period postcard in the Jack Fleming Collection, GOGA 3049, GGNRA Park Archives collections. Information courtesy e-mail 

from John Martini to Mary Grassick, February 24, 2004.

89 R. M. Schofi eld, Q.M. Corps to Quartermaster, Alcatraz Island, March 25, 1913, NARA, RG 

92, Records of the Offi ce of the Quartermaster General, 1800–1914, Document File.

90 Receiving Report, Alcatraz, July 31, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 15.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING HISTORICAL INFORMATION
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

44

Administrative Area, East Side, Federal Penitentiary Period

When Fred Reichel came to work at Alcatraz as Warden Johnston’s secretary in 1934, his offi ce was located in the southeast corner of the Administration Wing. It was a large offi ce, 

formerly used by the Adjutant Offi cer. Reichel described the Associate Warden’s offi ce next 

to his as “a real tiny offi ce” and claimed he had the “biggest offi ce of anybody.” Reichel also 

recalled that the Associate Warden shared his offi ce with the Chaplain.91

To the right of the main entrance was the Correctional Offi cer’s Waiting Room or Break 

Room. Reichel described it as being “a little reception offi ce where the offi cers waited when 

they were changing guard, and where they posted notices to the personnel about anything.” 

The area to the left, or west, of the entrance was used by the lieutenants. According to 

Reichel, a guard assisted the lieutenant on duty with his paperwork, “the lists, the assignments 

and all that was down there, and the cell changes.” 92 Former Captain of the Guard Philip 

Bergen arrived on the island in autumn 1939 and also recalled that the Warden’s Secretary was 

located in the roomy southeast corner offi ce. By that time the Associate Warden’s Offi ce had 

been partitioned to accommodate a fi le room (fi gure BP9).93

The room between the Secretary’s and Associate Warden’s offi ces and the entrance hall 

housed the Captain of the Guard, the Mail Censor, a fi le clerk, and more fi les, in addition to 

the partitioned-off Guards’ Break Room.94 Captain Bergen, who remained at Alcatraz until 

1955, described the Correctional Offi cers’ Lounge or Break Room as a sort of waiting room 

where offi cers could go before a shift, while on break, or for lunch. The room contained some 

wooden chairs, a wooden table smaller than a dining room table, a wooden bench with a 

back, and a Coke machine. Offi cers were allowed to smoke while in this room. A clipboard 

with large U-shaped rings, probably a Shannon fi le, hung on a hook, and notices to the correctional staff were posted there.95

Some fi les were kept locked in the larger of the two vaults installed by the army. Among the 

new equipment the Bureau of Prisons acquired when it took over in 1934 were two dark walnut-colored steel safes fi tted with document and letter fi les and money drawers.96 A fi le clerk 

was established in the room outside the vault, with additional fi les stored in the area across 

from the Associate Warden’s Offi ce. At some point a low railing or half-wall with a swinging 

door was installed around this area to separate the fi ling area from the rest of the space (fi gure 

OA1). This railing may have been installed after 1955, as former Captain of the Guard Philip 

Bergen, who left the island in 1955, does not recall any partition in this area.97

The second vault installed by the army was used for weapons storage and, together with the 

windowed area outside the vault, served as the Armory. (See below for more on the Armory.) 

91 Fred Reichel, Oral History Draft Transcript.

92 Ibid.

93 Figure BP9, a fl oor plan of the administration area ca. 1940, was drawn by Phil Bergen. The 

plan is located in Alcatraz Staff Files, Alcatraz Island.

94 Figure BP9, drawn by Philip Bergen.

95 Philip Bergen, “Notes from Bergen interview,” by John Martini. E-mail from John Martini to 

Mary Grassick, August 14, 2001.

96 Standard Government Short Form Contract, February 19, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-34.

97 Philip Bergen, “Notes from Bergen interview,” by John Martini. E-mail from John Martini to 

Mary Grassick, August 14, 2001.
45

The Mail Censor also worked in the large open offi ce area with the fi le clerk and the Captain 

of the Guard. The Mail Censor was responsible for separating inmate, offi cial, and personal 

mail collected from the Alcatraz post offi ce. Offi cial mail was delivered to the Warden’s 

secretary, and mail for Correctional Offi cers was put in a “pigeon hole box” located in the 

“Lieutenant’s Offi ce”—also called the Captain of the Guard’s Offi ce (fi gure AO2).

The term “Captain of the Guard” had not yet come into use in the 1930s, as senior offi cers 

had the rank of Lieutenant. The location occupied by the Captain of the Guard in the ca. 1940 

fl oor plan developed by Philip Bergen (east of the break room, on the south face of the Main 

Prison Building), was therefore known as the Lieutenant’s room or offi ce in the early years 

of the federal prison. For instance, in 1937 Warden Johnston refers to the room used by “the 

Lieutenant of the Watch and the Mail Clerk.”98

According to a 1936 report, the Censor kept “numerical and alphabetical fi les on a spindle” 

that he used in sorting the inmate mail. After sorting, the censor opened and read all incoming mail. He then stamped the envelopes, which he had marked with the inmate registration 

number. Approved mail was posted into a letter ledger, after letters were reviewed to determine which inmates had lost correspondence privileges.

Letters were then typed, with prohibited topics or materials simply left out of the transcript. 

According to the report: “No reference is made in the typed letter to indicate matter deleted.” 

A copy of the typed letter was attached to the original letter and fi led in a “special cabinet 

controlled by the censor.” The inmate did not receive the original letter upon transfer or release. Less than two years after the prison opened, the censor “had accumulated a number of 

cabinets full of letters.”99

If inmates received letters from correspondents not on their approved mailing list, the letter 

was stamped and placed in the inmate’s folder. The Censor placed typed copies of letters in 

a brown envelope marked with the inmate’s number and cell location. Correctional Offi cers 

delivered the mail during the evening watch. 

The Censor also supplied copies of mail regulations to inmates and their potential correspondents. Inmates were allowed a maximum of seven approved correspondents, all of whom 

were required to be relatives. They could also write to lawyers and government offi cials. 

Convicts were provided blank paper and envelopes and were allowed to write in pencil only. 

If a letter referred to a prisoner’s sentence or his record, a copy was made for the fi les before it 

was mailed. 

The Censor was also responsible for reviewing incoming magazines, which inmates were allowed to receive direct from the publisher. Magazines from an approved list were reviewed 

for “reference to any ‘Crime News,’” and disapproved articles were torn out of the publication. A record was kept of all magazines that arrived and all the inmates who received them. In 

early 1936 inmates subscribed to such magazines as Time, News Week, and Mid-Week Pictorial. 

98 James Johnston to Director, BoP, February 26, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-16.

99 Report on Mail Censor, W. T. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, February 11, 1936, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-9

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING HISTORICAL INFORMATION
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

46

The only packages inmates were allowed to receive were books sent direct from the publisher, 

which the Censor also examined before delivery. Overall, the Censor’s job was a busy one—

during one year he handled more than 26,000 incoming and outgoing letters and 

magazines.100

Administrative Area, West Side, Federal Penitentiary Period

The ca. 1940 plan of the area west of the Hall shows three spaces partitioned from the west 

side of the Administration Wing—a bathroom in the northwest corner and offi ces for the 

Chief Clerk and another Clerk (fi gure BP9). The bathroom was partially renovated in 1958 

when new toilets and washstands were installed; however, the white hexagonal tile fl oor still 

needed repair or replacement, and the white paint on the walls needed freshening.101

The square Telephone Exchange Room was walled off in the center of the area, leaving the 

remaining L-shaped section for various business offi ces. The space between the Telephone 

Exchange and the Cell Room was eventually made into the Visitors’ Room. 

Although the army had a small Phone Offi ce located west of the hall, the Bureau of Prisons 

installed a larger Telephone Exchange Room on the west side of the hall in 1934. The room 

measured approximately 12 ́ × 13 ́ long, with 12.5-foot-high ceilings and pilaster columns in 

each corner.

For security reasons, it was “imperative that all of the telephone lines be protected from all 

kinds of malicious interference,” and no cable or telephone wires were to be accessible or visible. In 1934 the army’s manually operated switchboard was in the dock guardhouse, and it 

was determined to install a new automatic switchboard in the Administration Wing. In addition to telephone service, the new switchboard was also equipped for fi re, watch, and conference call service.102

Radio equipment was required on the island to communicate quickly and directly with both 

the U.S. Coast Guard, the San Francisco Police Department, and the prison’s launch, and this 

equipment was also secured in the Telephone Exchange Room. A “terminal box battery cabinet” and a “100 line P.Z.X. automatic telephone” were permanently installed in the room by 

1936. A 3 ́ × 5 ́ space was available for the installation of a 125-watt radio telephone transmitter 

and a high frequency station receiver.103

The Telephone Exchange Room was moved to the second fl oor of the Administration Wing in 

1960 to make way for the installation of the new Control Center. After the move, it was noted 

that the old Telephone Room had been used as a “work shop,” and that the telephone system 

100 Ibid. See also Notice: to persons corresponding with prisoners, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

101 Associate Warden to Warden, May 15, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 5; Frank Young, Examiner to A. A. Evans, Assistant Director, BoP, October 29, 1958, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

102 Additional Conduit Construction required on Alcatraz Island, California . . . January 30, 1934, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-43.

103 Specifi cations No. 27, Alcatraz Radio Installation, and attachment, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters), 1930–1937, 4-49-1-59.
47

was working much better on the second fl oor, where it was “kept locked . . . under pressure, 

and the air fi lters changed regularly.”104

By 1946 most of the open area on the west side of the wing was devoted to accounting staff . 

The Purchasing Agent and the Accountant were in the two enclosed offi ces on the west side 

of the wing. The Chief Clerk had moved to the southeast corner offi ce, which he shared with 

the Warden’s Secretary, and the Associate Warden had an offi ce to himself (fi gure AO6). By 

1952 the bookkeeper also had his desk in the Chief Clerk’s Offi ce.105

Ben Blount, who served on the administrative staff at Alcatraz from 1941 through 1943 and 

again from 1947 through 1948, remembered that the Chief Clerk, who was the overall business manager, had a door on his offi ce and big windows. This was probably the southeast offi ce that he shared with the Warden’s Secretary. Blount worked in the large offi ce area with the 

Purchasing Agent, Accountant, Stock Control Clerk, and Personnel Offi cer. Blount recalled 

that the Agent Cashier, Mr. Bird, sat to the right of the Personnel Offi cer, and that he had a 

safe near his desk. Blount also remembered linoleum on the fl oor of the staff offi ce area and 

venetian blinds on the windows.106

The venetian blinds were installed in 1937. Until then, the windows on the west side of the 

Administrative Area and the room used by the Lieutenant of the Watch and the Mail Clerk 

were painted white. The paint was removed from the windows in early 1937 with the idea 

of repainting them, but it was decided that if venetian blinds were installed instead the staff 

could work with natural light almost all the time. The blinds were more suitable than the 

painted-out windows from a custodial stand point, as well (fi gures EX11, EX12, and EX13).

The justifi cation for the blinds acquisition points out that venetian blinds cost “a little more 

than green shades,” but would last longer. This sentence could indicate that green roller 

shades were the usual choice for window shades in the Main Prison Building. However, the 

justifi cation goes on to request shades for only four 8 ́ × 8 ́ windows, which would be one 

short, considering that there are four large windows across the west end of the front of the 

Main Prison Building—“the large room used by the Clerical Staff ”—and one large window 

“in the room used by the Lieutenant of the Watch and the Mail Clerk.”107

At some point in the late 1950s or early 1960s, the offi ces on the west side of the Administration 

Area, referred to overall as the Clerical Offi ce, the Bookkeepers’ Offi ce, or the Business Offi ce, 

moved out of the Main Prison Building and into a Coast Guard building on the island. By 

September 1960 the plan was for the Business Offi ce to return to the Main Prison Building, although “reassignments of space” were being proposed.108

104 James Casey, C.M.S. to Benny Durham, Communications Engineer, August 1, 1960, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

105 J. H. McFadden, Supt. of Construction to James Johnston, Warden, February 28, 1946 and 

attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Supply, Equipment, and Facilities Maintenance Files 

(hereafter, S, E, & M Files), Box 6 and Item Justifi cation–1953 Equipment Budget, May 8, 

1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

106 Notes on author’s conversation with Ben Blount, Alcatraz Island, August 13, 2000, GGNRA 

Park Archives collections. 

107 Johnston to Director, BoP, February 26, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-16.

108 C. A. Kelley, Senior Architect, to Warden Madigan, September 29, 1960, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6. 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING HISTORICAL INFORMATION
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

48

General Furnishings

The new staff at Alcatraz ordered a lot of offi ce furniture and offi ce supplies in the fi rst few 

years of the federal prison’s operation. In February 1934 the Chief Clerk issued his fi rst request for bids on the following basic offi ce furnishings: 13 steel fi ling cabinets of various sizes, 

dark walnut fi nish; 28 metal typewriter chairs in a dark walnut fi nish with brown imitation 

leather seats, some with upholstered arms; two walnut swivel armchairs with brown leather 

seats; eight walnut-fi nish swivel armchairs with upholstered seats; 14 dark brown steel storage 

cupboards; two 18 ̋ × 36 ̋ mirrors; 24 walnut-fi nished steel sectional book cases with bases and 

tops; 34 walnut-fi nished steel fi ling cases; two steel map fi les with a walnut fi nish, and 20 steel 

wastebaskets, also in a dark brown walnut fi nish.109 Photographs taken in 1962 in the offi ce 

area show that the fi ling cabinets may have continued in use until that time (fi gureAO10).

In 1949 Warden Swope requested that 48 four-drawer wood fi le cabinets be declared surplus. Some were damaged and “all old.” They were taking up much needed offi ce space, and 

Swope hoped that if they could not be transferred, they could be dismantled and destroyed.110

Although the fi le cabinets have not been located on lists of goods and supplies transferred from 

the army to the Bureau of Prisons, it is likely that these fi le cabinets were from the army period.

The army also left behind seven Ansonia wall clocks, which the Bureau of Prisons continued 

to use until at least 1951. (See fi gures SP1, SP2, P9, and P18 for examples of army-era clocks.) The 

clocks, “unreliable and diffi cult to repair” by the 1950s, were located in the Business Offi ce 

(west of the hall), Warden’s Offi ce, Control Center, Storeroom, Dock Offi ce, Cell House, and 

Kitchen. The 1952 budget requested a model of electric self-winding clock with a 12-inch-diameter dial. The proposed clock would operate on direct current and would eventually, when 

all the clocks were replaced, be part of a system controlled by a master clock.111 At least some 

of these clocks were still in place in the Main Prison Building in 1962 (fi gures P35 and SP7).

At some point two IBM attendance time recorders were installed, along with four time card 

racks, but it is not known where in the Administration Wing they were located. They were declared surplus in late 1960.112

In addition to the dozens of government forms the new prison ordered from the Department 

of Justice, the print shop at McNeil Island Penitentiary provided printed letterhead, envelopes, and forms in the early months of the prison’s operation.113 The Bureau of Prisons sent 

109 Standard Government Short Form Contract, February 19, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-34.

110 E. B. Swope to Director, BoP, July 29, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 3.

111 Item Justifi cation–1952 Equipment Budget, May 8, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-06-03, Box 3. See also List of Surplus Property transferred from the War Department, October 31, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 

1930–1937.

112 Report of Excess Personal Property, November 11, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz, S, E, & M 

Files, Box 5.

113 W. T. Hammack to Warden James Johnston, February 13, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-34; W. T. Hammack to Mr. Bodholdt, 

February 15, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–

1937, 4-49-010; Supply Request, Alcatraz Island, no date, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937; L. O. Mills, Chief Clerk, to J. V. Bennett, Assistant 

Director, February 21, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 

1930–1937, 4-49-1-34. 
49

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

a railroad car full of offi ce equipment to Alcatraz in early 1934, and in June the Requisitioning 

Offi cer signed for a Royal typewriter, two glass inkwells, a swivel chair, a stapler, four fi le boxes, a numbering machine, and a wide variety of other offi ce supplies.114

The new administrative offi ces at Alcatraz were also equipped with a National Cash Register 

bookkeeping machine, a Sunstrand adding machine, a Dalton adding machine, Monroe calculators, Ediphone dictating and transcribing machines, a Dictaphone dictating machine, 

an Edison Dick mimeograph machine, and more than a dozen typewriters.115 The typewriters were Underwood, Royal, and Burroughs brands, and the Chief Clerk, Purchasing Clerk, 

Stock Record Clerk, Voucher Clerk, Disbursing Clerk, Bookkeeper, Record Clerk, and 

Warden’s Secretary were to each have “his own typewriter attached to his desk and be made 

responsible for it.”

Typewriters were also available for the Custodial Force, in the Armory, in the Library, in the 

Hospital, and at the Front Gate. Two were required for the Storehouse. Because of the system of 

typing prisoners’ letters, the night guard at the Front Gate, the night guard in the Armory, and 

other Correctional Offi cers found themselves typing letters in addition to their other duties.116

By 1948 the Administrative staff had 34 useable typewriters and 34 authorized users, 28 of 

whom were civilians and at least two of whom were inmates. Four machines were used for 

instructional purposes.117 In 1952, the prison was authorized to buy a 26-inch-high metal 

typewriter stand for the business offi ce. Two employees used it in their report preparation and 

“daily assignments.”118

The Monroe calculator was transferred over by the army in 1934, and by 1952 it was considered 

obsolete and was being used in the Storehouse. The bookkeeper was using one of the calculators 

purchased in 1934, and the Chief Clerk suggested acquiring a new Marchant electric calculating 

machine to use on the bookkeeper’s desk in the Chief Clerk’s Offi ce and sending the Monroe to 

the Storekeeper, who did not have the volume of work the bookkeeper did.119

In 1943 the Chief Clerk requested authorization to acquire a photocopying machine, but due 

to the war, was unable to get one. He requested one again in 1947, claiming “we have needed 

one badly,” and was approved to purchase an Apeco photocopy machine with accessories and 

supplies for just less than $100.120 Sometime around 1950, Alcatraz received a ditto machine 

114 J. V. Bennett to James Johnston, March 3, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 

4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-16; Storehouse Requisition, June 11, 1934, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 15.

115 Invitation, Bid and Acceptance, April 6, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-47.

116 L. O. Mills, Chief Clerk to W. T. Hammack, April 13, 1935, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-47.

117 Survey of Typewriters owned by the Federal Government, June 28, 1948, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz S, E, and M Files, Box 6.

118 Item Justifi cation–1953 Equipment Budget, May 7, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

119 Item Justifi cation–1953 Equipment Budget, May 8, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 2; Special Authorization, June 16, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

120 Contract with Duophoto Corporation, October 29, 1943, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E and 

M Files, Box 6 and J. Johnston to G. H. Davis, Chief Accountant, BoP, March 12, 1947, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Box 3.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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50

from the U.S. Penitentiary in Atlanta. By 1953 it was hoped that funds would be available to 

repair the machine, as the Classifi cation Secretary, the clerk to the Associate Warden, and 

Captain of the Guard in particular had use for it.121

Although Alcatraz was slated to close in March 1963, a new copying machine was acquired in 

late October 1962. The old Verifax copying machine, along with extra supplies, was off ered to 

Lompoc Correctional Institution, Lompoc, California.122

In 1934, two black-fi nish desk telephones were installed in the Warden’s Offi ce. The Warden’s 

Secretary also had two desk telephones in his offi ce. The Lieutenant’s (Captain of the Guard’s) 

Offi ce had a desk telephone and a red wall unit for use in case of fi re, as did the Deputy or 

Associate Warden. The fi re-call phones each had a separate “large double-gong bell.” The 

phones were installed beneath the mantel on the left, and the bell was installed beneath the 

mantle to the right. In the Lieutenant’s Offi ce, the watch-call telephone was to be “placed on a 

table or desk in front of the fi re place.” For security reasons the telephones of the Lieutenant, 

the Warden, and the Deputy Warden were served by outlets located under the desk.

Conference-call annunciators—electrically controlled signal boards—were installed in the 

Lieutenant’s Offi ce, the Warden’s Offi ce. and the Deputy Warden’s Offi ce. In the Lieutenant’s 

Offi ce, the annunciator was “set in the chimney wall above the mantle.” The 100-lamp fi recall annunciator was installed above it. The annunciators in the Warden’s and Deputy’s 

Offi ces were set into their chimneys also. Desk phones were provided for the Chief Clerk, the 

Disbursing Offi cer, and two of the Accounting Offi ces.123 When Alcatraz closed in 1963, all of 

the desk telephones were transferred to McNeil Island Penitentiary for repair.124

Venetian blinds were eventually installed throughout the Administration Area. A ca. 1941 

photograph shows them on the west-facing windows of the staff offi ce area and a later photograph shows them in the offi ce windows east of the hall (fi gures EX16 and EX 18). The new 

blinds were probably put up after new windows and doors were installed throughout the fi rst 

fl oor of the Administration Wing in fi scal year 1940.125 They continued to be used until the institution closed in 1963 (fi gure EX21).

Pendant light fi xtures with milk glass shades were in place in the offi ces by the early 1940s 

(fi gures EX13, EX15, EX17), but by 1946 plans for installing fl uorescent lighting fi xtures in the 

Administration Area were being developed. Warden Johnston remarked that “some of the offi ces in the administrative part of this building are so very poorly lighted,” and suggested that 

121 Minutes of Planning Committee Meeting, February 17, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

122 Business Manager, Alcatraz, to Business Manager, Lompoc, October 22, 1962, GGNRA Park 

Archives collections, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection.

123 Specifi cations, Interior Telephone Exchange and Outside Service Facilities for the United 

States Penitentiary at Alcatraz Island, San Francisco Bay, California, March 15, 1934, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters,) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-43; and Additional Conduit Construction required on Alcatraz Island, California . . . January 30, 1934, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-43.

124 P. J. Madigan, McNeil Island, to Sanford Turk, BoP, April 17, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

125 Federal Offenders 1940, 35. The federal fi scal year ended on June 30, 1940.
51

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

while fl uorescent lighting was being installed in the Hospital, the lighting should be upgraded 

in the offi ces as well.126

A control panel located near the stairs leading from the Sally Port to the second fl oor provided AC power for the upgraded lighting. (See below for more on the Sally Port.) Four lights 

were planned for the Warden’s Offi ce; two for the offi ce shared by the Chief Clerk and the 

Warden’s Secretary; two for the Associate Warden’s Offi ce; two for the Captain of the Guard’s 

Offi ce, and one over the partitioned area in front of the vault that served as the Armory (fi gures W5, AO6, AO11, andAO12). (See below for more on the Armory.)

Although the February 1946 lighting plan did not show any lighting fi xtures planned for clerical offi ces on the west side of the building, a March letter discussing the project referred to 

new lighting for those offi ces. A three-lamp style was to be acquired for the Captain of the 

Guard’s Offi ce, the Armory, and the Clerical Offi ce, and a four-lamp style for the Warden’s 

Offi ce, Associate Warden’s Offi ce, and the Chief Clerk’s Offi ce.127

Warden Johnston was also authorized to install a new fl uorescent light fi xture at the “main 

gate entrance to the cell block,” also known as the Sally Port. The Bureau of Prisons suggested 

an alternate to the fi xture specifi ed in the original Alcatraz proposal, citing its “more pleasing 

appearance.”128

By the end of 1961, when the entire Administrative Area was due to be remodeled, the light 

fi xtures “of three distinctly diff erent types” were outmoded and considered fi t for “out of the 

way places where adequate lighting and appearance are not particularly important.”Twenty 

of the old 48-inch fi xtures, each using four 40-watt tubes, were in service (fi gures AO11 and 

AO12).129

The fl uorescent light fi xtures were replaced in 1961 with new white enamel, surface-mounted 

fi xtures. These were transferred to Terminal Island Penitentiary (California) when Alcatraz 

closed in 1963.130

Beginning in May 1959, the Alcatraz administration started to acquire surplus offi ce furniture 

and storage units from other institutions, perhaps in anticipation of the rehabilitation work 

being proposed for the Administration Wing at this time. It is also possible that the acquisition 

of extra offi ce furnishings was in response to the temporary relocation of the Business Offi ce 

on the west side of the hall to the fi rst and second fl oors of the Coast Guard lighthouse. The 

Business Offi ce remained there at least through early 1962.131 That move was probably due to 

126 James Johnston to James Bennett, Director, BoP, January 19, 1946, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

S, E & M Files, Box 6.

127 James Johnston to Thomas Butterworth, Mechanical Inspector, BoP, March 27, 1946, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

128 J. E. Overlade, Associate Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Johnston, September 16, 1944, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

129 O. G. Blackwell to J. E. Moran, BoP, December 14, 1961, and O. G. Blackwell to G. W. Aderhold, Supervising Architect, BoP, February 19, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 1.

130 Items at Alcatraz Needed at Terminal Island Operation [1963], NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

131 O. G. Blackwell to Director, BoP, Monthly Report, January 3, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 16; William C. Overton, Engineer, to Myrl E. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, July 25, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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52

the installation of the new Control Center in the western half of the Administration Wing in 

1960–61. 

By 1960 offi ce space was cramped in the Administration Wing, with mismatched partitions 

slicing up the area. A cover memo to an estimate for rehabilitating the offi ces noted “all the inside partitions will need to come out. As they should, as none of these partitions are the same, 

in construction, or type, some just have a piece of ply-wood nailed over a door way, some are 

of sheet-rock, with old glass windows over the top.”132 Clearly, the use and confi guration of 

the fi rst fl oor of this wing was fl uid, and most modifi cations and changes were not offi cially 

requested or recorded. 

Although under consideration for some time, the Administration Wing remodeling was not 

approved until November 1961, after then-Director of the Bureau of Prisons James Bennett 

paid a visit to Alcatraz. In February 1962 construction plans were drawn up, revised, and 

revised again. Warden Olin Blackwell was in favor of using “bank type” partitions almost exclusively. These partitions were prefabricated partially glazed pieces that were easily moved 

and provided good light to interior offi ces. Blackwell thought their use was advantageous 

from both an aesthetic and budgetary standpoint, but recommended using solid partitions for 

the Cashier’s Offi ce, which required additional security, and for the Staff Conference Room, 

which might host meetings using distracting visual aids. The Training Offi ce, too, was to have 

a fl oor-to-ceiling partition, to allow for privacy during interviews.133

A suspended ceiling system was approved in late March 1962 and in the summer the concrete 

fl oors were resurfaced in preparation for the installation of asphalt or vinyl-asbestos tile. 

The ceiling had not been installed by September 1962, when Blackwell requested that ceiling 

materials be kept on site for possible installation later. The installation must have happened 

at some point, though, because in May 1963 a crew from the Terminal Island Penitentiary removed the new “ceiling installation” for use at that institution.134

In July the Bureau of Prisons decided that funding would be provided to complete the “business offi ce section and the front entrance” but not the rest of the Administration Wing. In 

September, word fi nally came that operations at Alcatraz were to be discontinued “as soon as 

practical,” and the Warden was asked to select a stopping point for the remodeling project.135

132 James H. Casey, C. M. S., to Charlie Kelley, Chief of Construction, BoP, October 17, 1960, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

133 J. E. Moran, Construction and Mechanical Administrator, to Mr. Sugarman, Budget Offi cer, 

November 22, 1961 and O. Blackwell to G. W. Aderhold, Supervisory Architect, BoP, February 

19, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

134 George W. Aderhold, Supervisory Architect, to Warden Blackwell, March 27, 1962, and O. 

Blackwell to H. W. Helman, September 20, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 1; F. A. Straley, C. M. S., to J. E. Moran, Construction and Mechanical Admin., 

BoP, July 10, 1962 and H. W. Helman, Acting Construction and Mechanical Admin., BoP, to 

Warden Blackwell, July 10, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 7; J. W. Dolan, 

Sr. Examiner to Director, BoP, May 28, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 6.

135 J. E. Moran, Construction and Mechanical Administrator, to Warden Blackwell, July 31, 1962, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4; H. W. Helman, Acting Construction 

and Mechanical Administrator, to Warden Blackwell, September 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.
53

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Warden Blackwell set a date of October 28, 1962, and stopped the project “at the wall separating the Front Entrance from the Captains Offi ce and the Record Offi ce section.” Remodeling 

of “the Front Entrance, Corridor, Staff Conference and Meeting room, Agents Cashiers 

Offi ce, Business Offi ce and the General Offi ces” west of the hall was complete. Blackwell proposed taking care of some additional jobs east of the hall, though, including “tearing out the 

old Control Center, the old Staff Meeting Room and extending the bank type Partitions up to 

the Associate Wardens Offi ce wall.” He argued that these changes would give them two much 

needed large offi ces to be used by “the Captain, Captain’s Clerk, Mail Offi cer, Parole Offi cer 

and his Clerk.” He also pointed out that visitors and the public would continue to come to the 

island, and that this area should appear “presentable.”136

Half of the new fl uorescent lighting fi xtures were installed, while around half of the fi xtures 

remained in storage when Alcatraz closed down. All the fi xtures were transferred to Terminal 

Island Penitentiary in 1963. Much of the old wooden offi ce furniture was surveyed, or disposed of, by the Bureau of Prisons, but newer metal typewriter stands, chairs, desks, tables, 

and desk lights were transferred to Marion Penitentiary. Marion also received many typewriters, though more than 20 were turned over to GSA with the buildings. Stationary and forms 

were distributed to Marion and Terminal Island penitentiaries.137

Appendix C (May 15, 1963) lists furnishings remaining in the Administrative Offi ces, the 

Business Manager’s Offi ce, the Associate Warden’s Offi ce, and the Warden’s Secretary’s Offi ce. 

Warden’s Offi ce

As mentioned above, Warden Johnston ordered furniture for his offi ce from Prison Industries 

in early 1934, but there is no record of what he ordered. In 1939, he wrote that he was in the 

process of “rejuvenating the Warden’s Offi ce” by installing new wall-to-wall carpet, venetian 

blinds, and drapes.138

A 1946 photograph (fi gure W1) of Johnston giving a press conference in his offi ce shows a 

dark wood double desk with a metal desk lamp. A pen in a stand, a small framed picture, 

wooden in-boxes, and stacks of papers and publications are on the desk. Johnston is sitting 

in a dark wooden swivel armchair, possibly one of those ordered in 1934, and the reporters 

are sitting in armchairs with upholstered seats and backs and dark wood arms. Tables line the 

north wall behind the desk, and these are covered in papers, telephones, and a teletype machine. Framed photographs and notices hang on the walls.

Former Administration Wing employee Ben Blount (1941–1943, 1947–1948) recalled 

Johnston’s big desk, where he sat with his back to the wall. He also remembered a thick dark 

blue wall-to-wall carpet in “royal blue—not navy” on the fl oor and “political pictures” on 

the walls.139 His recollections are consistent with photographs of the Warden’s Offi ce in later 

136 O. Blackwell to H. W. Helman, Acting Construction and Mechanical Administrator, September 20, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

137 List of Equipment Suitable for Transfer, January 16, 1963, and Description of Property, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7; N. L. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, 

BoP, to Warden Blackwell, March 6, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 1.

138 James Johnston to Director, BoP, October 9, 1939, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E & M Files, 

Box 6.

139 Notes on author’s conversation with Ben Blount, Alcatraz Island, August 13, 2000. 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

54

years. Many federal buildings prominently display framed photographic portraits of the 

current president, fl anked by portraits of other important fi gures in the administration. At 

Alcatraz the portraits were probably of the attorney general, representing the Department of 

Justice, and the Director of the Bureau of Prisons. 

Blount also remembered a “plush” chair—perhaps upholstered—and drapes at the windows 

in the Warden’s Offi ce. There were a couple of chairs in front of the desk for visitors, and 

a small table in the middle of the room. The fi replace in the room was not used.140 By the 

mid 1950s the west end of the Warden’s Offi ce held one or two large tables and chairs. This 

area was used for training and meetings, at least during the tenures of Wardens Swope and 

Madigan (fi gures W3, W6, W10, andW11).

Eventually, the Administration Wing became shabby, and by 1960 the disrepair extended to 

the Warden’s Offi ce as well. One project proposal noted: “there isnt [sic] one offi ce here that 

could be called a offi ce, and that includes the Wardens [sic] offi ce also.”141

During the late 1950s and early 1960s inmate paintings appeared on the Warden’s Offi ce walls. 

Additional offi ce machinery, a settee, and newly reupholstered armchairs were also incorporated. Sometime in 1961, new radiators were installed in this offi ce. Figure W14 shows the new 

radiator covers. An American fl ag, several types of bookshelves, an ashtray stand, and potted 

plants appear in later photographs of the room. The fl ag and the low wooden coff ee table 

were transferred to Marion Penitentiary in 1963 (fi gures W7, W13, and W14).142

A large painted model of the island and the Main Prison Building was displayed in the 

Warden’s Offi ce. Other unknown items were exhibited in cases. When Alcatraz closed in 

1963, the administration off ered to send the model of the island to the Bureau of Prisons in 

Washington, D.C., but the Bureau politely declined (fi gures W8, W15, and W14).143

Armory

The 1911 preconstruction plans for the Administration Wing show two vaults on the east side 

of the hall. The 1930 plan of the wing as built shows a small vault immediately east of the hallway and a larger vault adjacent to that (fi gures BP1 andBP3). As mentioned above, the larger 

vault was used to store sensitive prison records, at least in the Bureau of Prisons period, and 

the smaller vault secured weapons, ammunition, and spare parts. 

When the army operated Alcatraz, members of the Prisoner Guard were armed with pistols, 

except when they were transporting prisoners to Angel Island or to the mainland. In transit, 

the guards carried riot guns. Privates in the Main Guard carried shotguns and noncommissioned offi cers were armed with pistols.144

140 Ibid.

141 James H. Casey, C. M. S., to Charlie Kelley, Chief of Construction, BoP, October 17, 1960, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

142 O. G. Blackwell to J. E. Moran, BoP, December 14, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 1; List of Equipment Suitable for Transfer, January 16, 1963, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

143 O. G. Blackwell to G. W. Aderhold, Supervisory Architect, BoP, February 19, 1962, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1; R. J. Williard, Acting Warden to F. T. Wilkinson, 

Deputy Director, April 22, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

144 Post Regulations, 1932, Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, in 

GGNRA, Park Archives collections, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection.
55

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

When the Bureau of Prisons took control of the prison, Warden Johnston intended to “control the use of all fi re arms on the Island” from the Armory. The Armory, “near the main 

entrance, outside but close to the main cell [block]” was “enclosed with tool-proof steel.” 

Johnston considered the Armory “the nerve center” of the prison. It was manned round the 

clock and “day or night the offi cer at this station must see every person going into or coming out of the cell house.” The gate offi cer, or gatekeeper, could not open the gate without the 

Armory offi cer because the gate offi cer’s key fi t the lock covered by a metal shield under the 

Armory offi cer’s control.145

Guards in the planned East and West Gun Galleries would carry Thompson submachine 

guns, shotguns, pistols, and gas equipment. Guards on the new watch towers would be armed 

with Browning automatic rifl es, pistols, shotguns, and gas equipment. No other guards were 

to carry weapons, and “[i]n going from the Armory to these several stations care is to be exercised to insure that guards do not pass thru areas which prisoners are allowed to use.”146

In consultation with Deputy Warden Shuttleworth, a fi rearms instructor, Warden Johnston 

eventually selected the following arms for Alcatraz: 12-gauge Winchester riot shotguns, .45-

caliber Colt automatic pistols, .30-caliber Browning automatic rifl es, and .30-caliber M1903 

Springfi eld rifl es. There was some discussion between Johnston, Shuttleworth, and offi cials 

at the Bureau of Prisons in deciding between the 1911 model .45-caliber automatic Colt pistol 

and the .45-caliber Colt revolver, but the automatic Colt pistol was eventually chosen. The 

pistol was the preferred weapon of “expert marksmen” in the Bureau of Prisons, and was also 

used by the army. This was an advantage, as most of the weapons in use at Alcatraz were procured from the army.147

The Armory held ammunition for all of the weapons, as well as accessories such as holsters, 

belts, slings, and lanyards. Spare parts for all the weapons were also stocked in the vault. Gas 

equipment such as gas riot guns, grenades, gas billy clubs, and cartridges or projectiles for 

those weapons were held in the Armory, as were gas masks, standard wooden billies, fl ashlights, handcuff s, and leg-irons. Narcotics used in the Hospital on the second fl oor were also 

stored in the vault.148 When Alcatraz administration started distributing ready-made cigarettes 

in 1950, the cigarettes were stored in the Armory after they were drawn from supplies and before they were distributed to prisoners at evening lock-up.149

145 Director, BoP to Mr. Stanley (Attorney General?), March 1, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-0; Federal Offenders 1934–1935, 61 

and Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 240.

146 Director, BoP, to Mr. Stanley (Attorney General?), March 1, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-0.

147 J. Johnston to W. T. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, May 10, 1934; W. T. Hammack to Mr. 

Armstrong, June 10, 1934; W. T. Hammack to Mr. Bates, June 13, 1934, and W. T. Hammack 

to Mr. Bates, June 16, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 

1930–1937, 4-49-1-36.

148 J. Johnston to W. T. Hammack, May 10, 1934, and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-36; J. Johnston to S. Bates, May 3, 

1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-9.

149 E. Swope to Evening Watch Lieutenant, January 4, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

56

In late 1935, a General Coleman visited the island and reported back to the Director of the 

Bureau of Prisons that he thought that “there was a vulnerable spot connected with the arsenal and that the offi cer who sits just outside should have more protection from attack.” 

Director Bates suggested that if Warden Johnston wanted to install a “grating or barrier of 

bullet proof glass,” the Bureau would provide a special allotment for the project.150 In April 

1936, $4,000 was approved for installing shatter- and bulletproof glass in the Armory and a vision panel in the East Gun Gallery.151 The glass and grate arrangement is shown in fi gure OA1.

During fi scal year 1936–37 an alarm siren was installed on the roof of the Administration 

Wing. The new alarm was controlled from the Armory. New radio equipment, connecting 

the island with the Coast Guard, the prison launch, and local police departments, was also 

installed at this time.152

The lighting in the Armory was upgraded, along with the lighting throughout the Ad ministration Wing, when a three-lamp fl uorescent fi xture was installed in spring 1946. This fi xture 

remained until the Control Room and Armory moved in 1960. (See lighting inside and outside 

of the Armory in fi gure OA1.)

In 1946 the Bureau of Prisons adopted the auto-loading M-1 carbine as the “standard protective weapon” for the prison service. Senior Offi cer Cliff ord Fish, long-time Alcatraz armorer, 

supported by Lt. Philip Bergen and Associate Warden Miller, wrote to the Bureau to express 

his preference for the M-2 carbine, which correctional offi cers at Alcatraz began using during 

the May 1946 riots. The Bureau’s position was that the M-2 was “virtually a machine gun” and 

was “too dangerous, even in the hands of experienced persons.” The Bureau’s goal was to get 

rid of machine guns and high-powered rifl es and shotguns in institutions, but allowed that “at 

an institution such as Alcatraz . . . special needs are recognized.”153

In January 1947 the Director of the Bureau of Prisons sent a teletype to Warden Johnston 

requesting Johnston turn in his M-2 carbines and cancel an outstanding order for new ones. 

Johnston’s guards were to use the M-1 carbines provided by the Bureau. Alcatraz had received 24 of the .30-caliber M-2 carbines from Benicia Arsenal during the May 1946 riot, 

and the guards and administration were loathe to give them up. In October 1946, the use of 

the Thompson .45-caliber submachine gun was discontinued in all federal prisons with the 

exception of Alcatraz. In trying to persuade Alcatraz guards to accept the M-1 carbines, the 

Bureau off ered to send them additional submachine guns.154

By summer 1948, guards practiced for their annual fi rearm qualifi cation with .22-caliber rifl es, 

.22-caliber “Ace” pistols, and .30-caliber carbines. Twenty-two-caliber short barrel 

150 Director to J. Johnston, December 14, 1935, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

151 W. T. Hammack to J. Johnston, April 22, 1936 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-2.

152 Federal Offenders 1936–1937.

153 A. A. Evan, Administrative Offi cer, BoP, to J. Johnston, August 6, 1946, and J. Johnston to 

J. Bennett, February 28, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9. The 

M-2 carbine was an M-1 carbine with a selector switch. The M-2 could be fi red on full automatic or fi red one shot at a time, with one pull of the trigger.

154 J. Bennett to J. Johnston, January 16, 1947; J. Johnston to J. Bennett, February 28, 1947, and 

Fred T. Wilkinson, Superintendent, Englewood, to A. A. Evans, Administrative Offi cer, BoP, 

April 24, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.
57

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

automatic rifl es were also available.155 The .22-caliber rifl es and pistols were used to practice 

at the island’s indoor target range since larger caliber service weapons could not be used on 

the range. Former Captain of the Guard Philip Bergen stated that Correctional Offi cers had to 

go to the army range at Fort Barry for annual service weapons qualifi cations exams.156

At the same time, the institution was planning to adopt .38-caliber revolvers as the “offi cial 

side arm,” in place of the .45-caliber Colt semiautomatic pistol. The .38-caliber Colt “Police 

Positive” and the .38-caliber Colt “Offi cial Police” style revolvers were both transferred from 

Sandstone Penitentiary. The Colt pistols were kept for emergencies.157

In early 1950 Warden Swope determined to remove all fi rearms from guards stationed in gun 

cages and substitute gas grenades and gas guns. Although he was “unable to secure any support on the part of the Lieutenants, Captain, Associate Warden, etc.,” Swope felt that gas guns 

were more eff ective and less apt to kill someone and stated his intent “before many months to 

change our policy of issuing fi rearms to the offi cers assigned to the gun cages.”158

At this point guards who were armed were using the carbine, with the exception of guards on 

the roof, who used the Winchester 30.06 rifl e. After an accidental discharge involving this gun 

in the Armory, the 30.06 rifl e was issued only to the guard on the Dock Tower. The incident 

report mentions that the rifl e was fi red into “the sand box in the corner” of the Armory.159

Gas guns did not, however, become the standard weapon for offi cers working in the gun cages. By the end of fi scal year 1950, there were only eight of the 1.5-caliber gas guns on hand at 

Alcatraz, and most of them were not in good condition. A 1958 inventory of fi rearms and gas 

equipment in the Armory showed that the Winchester 30.06, Model 70; the .30-caliber M-1 

carbine; the .45-caliber Colt automatic; the .38-caliber Colt Police Offi cer revolver; the .38-

caliber Colt Police Positive revolver; the 12-gauge Model 97 Winchester riot gun; and the gas 

billy were the primary weapons used at that time.160

In 1960 the Colt .45-caliber automatic pistols and remaining “tommy guns” (Thompson .45-

caliber submachine guns) were surveyed, and old carbines were replaced with new carbines. 

When Alcatraz closed in 1963 the main weapons in use were the “Riot Type” shotgun Model 

#1897; the “Police Positive” .38-caliber revolver, “Special” and regular versions, and the Colt 

Police .38-caliber revolver.161

155 Alcatraz to Director, BoP, July 16, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.

156 Philip Bergen Oral History.

157 Alcatraz to Director, BoP, July 16, 1948, and BoP to Warden Swope, August 12, 1948, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

158 E. B. Swope to Director, BoP, January 10, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 9.

159 Ibid.

160 Arms, Ammunition, and Defensive Equipment Inventory and Requisition, October 31, 1950, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9 and Jack C. Baucom to Warden, 

August 15, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

161 O. G. Blackwell to Director, BoP, Monthly Report, January 3, 1962,, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 16 and N. L. Allredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, to 

Warden Blackwell, March 6, 1963 and attachment, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 7.

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In the 1940s, Warden Johnston gave a detailed description of the Armory interior:

On the desk under a glass top is a graphic chart of the local, departmental, regular, conference, and outside telephones, loud speakers, fi re alarm, special means of communication, and siren sounder in case of emergency. The instrument, switches and buttons are 

on the desk within easy reach and in place as diagrammed. A little to the side and back of 

the desk is another vision panel through which the night and midnight-morning offi cers 

may see the light panel to check the hourly watch calls that offi cers must make from their 

posts. Fitted to the wall is a rack on which there is a key to every door, gate, gallery, shop 

and building on the island.162

Photographs from around 1956 show that the armorer, the correctional offi cer in charge of 

the Armory, used a cramped space furnished with a standard double pedestal wooden desk, a 

wooden offi ce chair, minimal offi ce supplies, an ashtray, and telecommunications equipment 

such as a switchboard, duty station phone, emergency phone, short-range radio, and listening devices. (See fi gure OA3 for an annotated photograph of the armorer’s console.) The large, 

labeled key board hung directly to the left of the door to the vault (fi gure OA4).

The two brass “port holes” in the glass front of the Armory (fi gure OA5) served as “sort of 

miniature turrets.” They could be controlled only from inside the Armory “so that if the offi cer on duty should be attacked from the outside he could turn the ball-like brass piece with a 

gun barrel and fi re upon anyone attempting to take the Armory.”163

The ventilation system in the Armory was due to be upgraded in 1957, but the project stalled 

and was not completed until April 1958. The new system provided better circulation and 

made the offi cers working in the Armory “very happy.”164

Control Center

In 1960 the decision was made to relocate the Control Center and Armory because “the 

existing control room location did not aff ord suffi cient room to permit installation of the 

necessary equipment and facilities.”165 The new Control Center was moved west, across the 

hall, and roughly into the location of the Telephone Exchange Room (fi gure BP9). Many of 

the functions housed in the Telephone Exchange Room would be taken over by the offi cer 

in the Control Center, and those that were not were moved up to the second fl oor of the 

Administration Wing.

Work on the new Control Center began in early 1960, and by June walls in the old Telephone 

Exchange were being demolished and the new control console had been delivered.166

The next month the wiring for speakers and grill door controls was laid,167 but by 

162 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 240.

163 Ibid.

164 Associate Warden to Warden, September 9, 1957, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 5 and Warden Madigan to Director, BoP, Monthly Report, May 1, 1958, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files 129-96-03, Box 16.

165 C. A. Kelley, Sr. Architect, to B. E. Durham, Communications Engineer, February 9, 1960, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

166 William C. Overton, Engineer, to Myrl E. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, July 25, 1960, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

167 James H. Casey, C. M. S., to Benny Durham, Communications Engineer, BoP, August 1, 1960, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.
59

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

November the project had come to a “stand-still,” as the steel for the grill and doors had 

not arrived.168

In August 1961 the new Control Center was opened, and the following month it was operating 

satisfactorily, with only a few glitches with the paging system and the grill doors, which were 

soon worked out. A few months later a faulty wire was discovered leading to the outer Sally 

Port gate, which was located next to the Control Center. The gate had to be operated manually until the wire was repaired a short while later. An offi cer was stationed by the Control 

Center until the repair could be made.169

The new Control Center had large windows to allow the offi cer on duty to observe “the front 

entrance and the corridor leading into the cell houses as well as the door to the cell houses, 

the door to the stairway, and [some] of the visitation room. A portion of the Business Offi ce 

will also be visible.”170 The offi cer sat behind a large sloping console mounted with all new 

security equipment. 

A PBX (private branch exchange) switchboard was mounted on the console, along with telephones for fi re reporting, watch call reporting, regular outgoing calls and “executive right-ofway.” The Control Room offi cer dealt with all incoming and outgoing phone calls. In addition 

to phones, the following were located on the console: guard tower intercom, grill and door 

controls for fi ve grills, intercom to doors and grills controlled, annunciator lamp panel and 

switches for the interior phone system, intercom to visitor registration point and to corridors, 

paging intercom system, monitor speaker for the inmate radio system, watch call answering 

device, “Wheelplex” fi le system for inmate records, signal panel for doors in the Treatment 

Unit, two-way radio remote console, tear gas controls, and storage for operating keys (fi gures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5, and CC6).171 (See Appendix D for a complete description of the new 

Control Room. Figure CC3 shows the new key storage cabinet.)

Note that prior to around 1960 the term “Armory” was commonly used to refer to the vault 

housing weapons as well as to the room outside the vault that held the desk, console, keyboard, telephones, and radio equipment associated with keeping control over the Main 

Prison Building. When the new “Control Center” or “Control Room” was built in 1960–61, 

the term “Armory” was used to refer to the room in which the weapons were stored, located 

within the overall Control Center. A locksmith shop was also located inside the Control 

Center.

Only a year after the new Control Center opened, Alcatraz was scheduled to be closed. 

Bureau of Prisons inspectors visited the Control Center with a view to salvaging communica168 James H. Casey to Benny Durham, November 30, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E & M 

Files, Box 6.

169 James H. Langley, Electrician, to Sanford N. Turk, Chief, Communications Section, BoP, September 29, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3 and O. G. Blackwell to Fred T. Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, January 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files 129-96-03, Box 19.

170 C. A. Kelley, Sr. Architect, to B. E. Durham, Communications Engineer, February 9, 1960, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

171 B. E. Durham, Communications Engineer, BoP, to C. A. Kelley, Senior Architect, BoP, February 9, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1. A PBX is a private 

telephone network used within an organization, with a number of shared outside lines for 

external calls.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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60

tions and control equipment for use in other institutions. It was recommended that “the bullet-proof glass, the two motorized grilles, and very likely the control room console and associated equipment could be used elsewhere,” in addition to “all of the loudspeakers used in the 

paging system, together with the transformers.”172

Within months almost the entire interior of the new room was transferred to Lompoc 

Penitentiary. Control Center fi xtures and furnishings available for transfer included: “complete electric sliding sally-port gates, grills, hardware, operating devices, mechanism housings 

and all fastenings. (Stewart Iron Works) Stand up working counters, with tool pass, key pass, 

electric gate controls, key cabinet, paging speaker control panel, institution telephone enunciator [sic] panel and inmate rotary fi le cabinet.” The PBX board was removed before May 

1963.173

Most of the weapons stored in the Armory were transferred to the Federal Reformatory at El 

Reno and leg irons, hand cuff s, and bulletproof vests were also transferred out.174

The cabinetry currently in place in the Control Center was recreated in 1986 from color slides 

in the park collection as part of the set for the miniseries “Six Against the Rock.” Only two 

walls of the Control Center were restored so that the camera could fi lm through the original 

location of the issue window on the west wall.175

Sally Port

Under the army, the north-south center hall divided offi ces on the east and the Squad Room 

on the west. A door from the hall led to an east-west hall that ran approximately half the 

width of the Administration Wing. A double door from this cross-hall led into the Cell House 

(fi gure BP3). Prisoners on their way to work were marched from the Cell House through the 

front of the building and on to their assignments.176

During the 1934 renovation, the Bureau of Prisons installed a three-gate system leading from 

the outer hall, which had access to the administrative offi ces, into the Cell Room. In the words 

of a report commissioned in late 1933 to provide security upgrade recommendations: “It is the 

intention to segregate the administrative end of this building from the cell room proper.”177

The two spaces formed by the three gates separating the Cell Room from the Administration 

Wing were called the Sally Port.

172 Sanford N. Turk to Fred T. Wilkinson, October 10, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

173 List of Installed Equipment not appearing on our equipment cards or considered on the minor 

equipment list of departments, January 15, 1963, and R. J. Williard, Acting Warden, to N.L. 

Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, May 17, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

174 List of Material Suitable for Transfer, January 16, 1963, and N. L. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant 

Director, BoP, to Warden Blackwell, March 6, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 7.

175 Telephone interview with Jim Delgado, former park historian GGNRA, by John Martini, 

August 20, 2001, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

176 Robert Bunge, The Prison Equipment Research Bureau, to Sanford Bates, Director, BoP, 

November 17, 1933, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–

1937, 4-49-0. 

177 Ibid.
61

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The fi rst door was constructed of solid steel plate, set in concrete walls. It was located about 

10 feet from the entrance to the hallway. Fifteen feet farther into the hall was the second gate, 

a steel “crash gate” that could be shut from the Armory. Ten feet farther on was a second double-plate door with a speaking panel and narrow observation window “so that communication can be had between the cell room and the inner hall without the necessity of opening any 

doors.”178 A gate was located just inside the second plate door (fi gures SP2, SP3, SP4, and SP7).

Warden Johnston described the Sally Port security system established by the Bureau of Prisons:

The main entrance to the prison was designed so that two offi cers would have to identify and cooperate in order to pass any person into or out of the prison. Offi cers or other 

persons going into the prison step through one door, approach a gate and stop there until 

identifi ed by the Offi cer in the Armory who views them through a vision panel. When 

satisfi ed the armorer operates the electric device that slides the shield plate from over 

the lock, the gate keeper uses his key to open the door, admits the visitor inside the fi rst 

door and the shield slides back over the lock. The gate keeper then takes his visitor to the 

fi rst of two inner doors, one of solid plate steel with a vision panel eye high, the other of 

steel bars. The gate keeper takes a look through his vision panel, scans the long corridors 

and the cross corridor of the cell house and if all is clear he may open the solid door, take 

another look and open the grated door.179

The gatekeeper, or gate offi cer, who sat at a desk just east of the door to the Cell House, was 

an essential part of the Sally Port system. Figure V1, ca. 1940, shows the offi cer serving as gatekeeper working at a fl at-top wooden desk with a fi le cabinet to his right. He is using a wooden 

swivel chair with arms. Figure SP7, taken in late 1962 or early 1963, shows a fl at top wooden 

desk in the same location. A bound notebook and an ashtray are visible on the desk.

Shortly after the Bureau of Prisons reopened Alcatraz in August 1934, a metal detector was 

installed in the corridor before the Sally Port. The detector was installed so as “to detect metal 

on persons as soon as [the] person steps over threshold and before the person could step to 

the fi rst of the doorways leading into the prison or turn to [the] doorway on the right leading 

to Lieutenant’s Offi ce and Armory or [the] doorway on left leading to offi ce of [sic] clerical 

staff .” The signal box for the metal detector was located “on the wall between two gates leading toward the cell block,” where the gatekeeper and armorer could both see it and hear it. 

The signal box was in two parts, one of which contained a red light, a buzzer, and switches to 

turn off one or both alarms. The second part was a signal to indicate if the system was tampered with or if there was an interruption to the power.180

178 Ibid., and J. Johnston, Warden, to The Teletouch Corporation, July 21, 1934, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-0. See also HSR, 39–40.

179 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 14.

180 J. Johnston, Warden, to Director, BoP, October 11, 1934 and The Teletouch Gun Detector, 

General Description and Information Relative to Method of Operation and Installation, and 

attachments, June 27, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 

1930–1937, 4-49-1-36.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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62

The original metal detectors installed by the Teletouch Corporation did not function properly, and by 1937 they were replaced with a model sold by Federal Laboratories, Inc. The new 

detector was to be installed in the same location, with the signal box or indicator, again inside 

the gates “under the control of the front gate keeper.”181

In 1944 Warden Johnston received funds to purchase a fl uorescent light fi xture “for installation at your main gate entrance to the cell block.” When lighting throughout the 

Administration Wing was upgraded in 1946, the AC power was taken from the existing panel 

located in the Sally Port “near [the] stair on 1st fl oor near offi ces” (fi gure AO6).182

After the May 1946 riot in the Cell House (see below) many security upgrades were made 

throughout the Main Prison Building. In spring 1947 a ball gun port was installed in the main 

entrance, and the entrance was given four coats of paint.183

Figures SP1 and SP2 show a clock and framed pictures over the arch leading to the steel plate 

door leading to the Cell Room. A box is mounted on the frame surrounding the door; a former correctional offi cer recalled that it may have been used for “check-out slips,” paperwork 

tracking prison personnel leaving the Cell House.184 A silver-painted radiator was installed in 

the exterior Sally Port parallel to the grated gate and a black wall telephone with hand-set was 

mounted to the right of the arch leading to the Cell Room door.

The clock was one of the hand-wound Ansonia clocks left by the army. In the equipment 

budget for 1952, Alcatraz administration proposed replacing this clock and others with selfwinding electric clocks, but the Ansonia clock appears in fi gure SP7, which is dated late 1962 

or early 1963.185

A new electronic gate was installed in the Sally Port when the new Control Center was installed in 1960–61. The gate included two grills, which were “interlocked so that it will be impossible to open either door if the other door is already open.” The outer gate was adjacent to 

the Control Center. The grills were operated from the control panel.186

Flooring in the Sally Port was highly polished rolled linoleum, fi nished with a six-inch 

rubber baseboard trim (fi gures SP1, SP2, and SP4).187 During the reinstallation of the Control 

Center and Armory in 1961, large square linoleum tiles “bigger than the regular 9 ̋ tiles used 

181 J. Johnston, Warden, to W. T. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, July 15, 1937, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-36.

182 J. E. Overlade, Associate Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Johnston, September 16, 1944 

and J. H. McFadden, Superintendent of Construction, to J. Johnston, Warden, February 28, 

1946, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E & M Files, Box 6.

183 John Lammers, Construction Engineer to Robert Dunbar, Construction Supervisor, BoP, February 24, 1947 and John Lammers to Robert Dunbar, March 31, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

184 George DiVincenzi interview with John Martini August 2003 Notes in GGNRA Park Archives 

collections.

185 Item Justifi cation–1952 Equipment Budget, May 8, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-06-03, Box 3.

186 B. E. Durham, Communications Engineer, to C. A. Kelley, Senior Architect, February 9, 1960, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1 and Memo to Fred T. Wilkinson, 

Assistant Director, BoP, January 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 19.

187 George DiVincenzi interview.
63

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

elsewhere in the building” were installed in the Sally Port to make the entrance look 

especially nice.188

A pay phone was installed in the “Administration Bldg. lobby” at some point before the institution closed. The “lobby” probably refers to the section of the hall before the fi rst Sally Port 

door. The phone was removed by May 1963.189

Visitors’ Room

During the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks period, there was no designated Visitors’ Room in the 

Main Prison Building. Arthur Dudgeon, Medical Offi cer from 1929 through 1934, recalled 

that the army did not encourage visitors, and very few prisoners at Alcatraz received them. 

When visitors did come, however, they were allowed to embrace or shake hands with prisoners, and children or families could go to a second-fl oor “sitting room” or “visiting room.” 

Dudgeon said they used the “recreation room,” or the Assembly Room shown in the 1930 

plan of the second fl oor of the Administration Wing (fi gure BP4).190

According to the 1932 Post Regulations, prisoners could receive authorized visitors on 

Sundays and holidays from 12:15 p.m. until 1:15 p.m. Visitors entered the Administration 

Wing, where “the Gate Keeper will require them to sign the Register and pass on to Assembly 

Hall.”191 A table was set up in the Assembly Hall during the visiting period, and prisoners were 

seated on one side with visitors seated on the other. A guard was seated at the end of the table. 

Visitors were permitted to bring smoking tobacco, cigarettes, magazines, books, and newspapers to prisoners. Packages were left at the gate and turned over to prisoners after the visitors 

had gone.192

By the time the Bureau of Prisons upgraded the Main Prison Building in 1934, the room used 

by visitors was located on the fi rst fl oor of the Administration Wing. In April of that year, 

there was some guarded discussion regarding the installation of a “certain device” used with 

“the speaking panels between [the] Corridor and Cell Block.”193 The corridor referred to was 

the area separating the Business Offi ces and the Cell House, which apparently was being used 

as the visiting area, but had no designation as yet (fi gure BP3). It was quickly decided that installing a listening device in the visiting area would be impossible to do “without it becoming a 

matter of public information” and that it was “not . . . worth the trouble and expense.”194

188 Patrick Mahoney, interview with John Martini, August 9, 2003. Notes in GGNRA Park 

Archives collections.

189 R. J. Williard, Acting Warden, to N. L. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, May 17, 1963, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

190 Arthur Dudgeon interview.

191 Post Regulations, 1932, Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, 59, 

GGNRA Park Archives collections, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection.

192 Ibid.; Major W. R. Stewart, Executive Offi cer, USDB Alcatraz, Military Prison Instructions, 

(Alcatraz) 1930, Order No. 65, November 13, 1930, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

193 J. Johnston to W. T. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, April 16, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-36.

194 W. T. Hammack to J. Johnston, April 27, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-36.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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64

A few months later in 1934 Johnston referred to a doorway off the front entrance leading to 

the “visitors’ waiting room” and by the 1940s the term “visiting room” was well established.195

Photographs from the 1940s show straight-back wooden chairs and square wooden tables as 

the only furnishings in the room. The fl oors are polished to a high gloss, and a dark painted or 

applied baseboard reaches six or eight inches up the light-colored wall. 

Vision panels were located in the walls east and west of the door to the Cell House. There 

were two sets of panels in the Visitors’ Room and one set east of the entrance door, over the 

Sally Port guard’s desk (fi gure V1). Below the vision panels were six individual windows to 

the Cell House. Telephone hand-sets and jacks were installed at the windows, and partitions 

extending from the walls formed a sort of visiting station “booth” that enabled visitors and 

prisoners to speak to one another more or less privately (fi gures V1 and V2).196

In spring 1947, in response to the riot of the previous year, a gun port was installed in the 

Visitors’ Room.197 (See fi gure V8 for panel to left of the vision panel that covers the gun port.)

The Visitors’ Room was separated from the Sally Port by a steel gate; in fi gure V1 the Sally 

Port guard is visible at his desk through the gate. The fenced-off stairway to the second fl oor 

is also visible to the right of the guard’s desk. An additional stairway to the second fl oor was 

installed in the Cell House west of the visiting area in 1954 or 1955. Although the staircase was 

within the original footprint of the Visitors’ Room, there was no connecting gate between the 

Visitors’ Room and the Cell House. Inmates used the new stairs to get to the Auditorium on 

the second fl oor.

The Visitors’ Room was remodeled in 1958. Acoustical tile was installed on the ceiling and 

part way down the walls, and the painted walls were covered with wood paneling. During the 

remodeling the original six visiting stations were reduced to four—windows number 2 and 

number 5 were removed. New wood paneling covered the old steel privacy partitions. The 

old vision panels were covered with hinged wooden fl aps that matched the woodwork in the 

room. Figure V6 shows the paneled-over vision panels from the Cell House side. 

A speaker system was installed in each booth, replacing the old telephones. Individual volume 

control knobs were installed at each speaker, so either the inmate or the visitor could control 

the sound.198

During the remodeling, a drape was installed over the stairway on the west side of the Visitors’ 

Room so that visitors would not see inmates going upstairs to see Saturday movies. Institution 

regulations for 1956 state that visiting hours were 1:30–3:10 p.m. weekdays only, but hours must 

have been expanded later, as in June 1958 the Warden was pleased that “we shall be able to carry 

195 J. Johnston to The Teletouch Corporation, July 21, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937 and Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 14.

196 Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, to Charles Kelley, Sr. Architect, BoP, November 21, 

1957, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

197 John Lammers to Robert Dunbar, February 24, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 2.

198 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, August 1, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

3, Box 16; Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, to Charles Kelley, Senior Architect, BoP, 

November 21, 1957, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.
65

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

on visits on Saturdays” after the renovation.199 Paneling was installed over the grille-enclosed 

stairway during the remodeling project. Figure V5 shows the new paneling, as well as a dark fabric drape installed over the gate between the Sally Port and the Visitors’ Room.

Early in 1959 the entire project was completed, with wall-to-wall “Cactus Brown Tweed” 

carpeting on the fl oor and “good workmanship” evident throughout. Even the prisoners, 

who looked through the visiting station windows, were “quite pleased” and “admired what 

they saw.”200

By the time the prison closed, it appears as if the Visitors’ Room was being used, in part at 

least, by administrative staff . Staff may have used this area when they were uprooted for the 

renovation of the west side of the Administration Wing. The east side of the Visitors’ Room 

may also have been used by lawyers, who were allowed to meet face-to-face with prisoners 

(fi gure V2) or to process convicts arriving singly, rather than taking them through the lower 

Sally Port in the basement.

Furnishings shown in fi gure V7 include a coat rack, book case, desk lamp, electric typewriter, 

several telephones, wastebasket, and swivel typing chair. The two upholstered chairs with 

wooden arms appear to be the same as those used in the Warden’s Offi ce in the 1940s, although they have been reupholstered in a woven tweed-like fabric. These may have been the 

“worn upholstered chairs” mentioned in a March 1959 memo.201

Cell House

Overview, Disciplinary Barracks Period

The Cell House constructed by the army in 1911 had six blocks of cells, each block consisting of three tiers. Cells were constructed of reinforced concrete, with fl at steel bars across 

the front. A locking mechanism ran the length of each block so the cells could be locked and 

unlocked in unison. This is called a “locking drop bar” (fi gures DB4 and DB5) to distinguish 

it from the individual keyed lock that each cell also had. Spiral stairs at the end of each cell 

block connected the tiers, and wooden bridges were constructed to connect the second and 

third tiers with the second fl oor of the Administration Wing (fi gures DB3 and DB6).

Each cell had a sink with cold running water, a shelf attached to the wall above the sink, a 

toilet, and a 30 ̋ × 81 ̋ iron grating bunk strapped to the wall. The water supply to the sink and 

toilet was controlled by push buttons in the wall above the fi xtures (fi gure C4). Salt water was 

used to fl ush the toilets. An electric outlet box was set into the ceiling of each cell with concrete, and a 25-watt tungsten light bulb was screwed into the socket.202

199 Paul Madigan, Institution Rules and Regulations; and Warden Madigan to Director, BoP, June 

30, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-3, Box 16.

200 Business Manager, Alcatraz, to R. W. Meier, Budget Offi cer, BoP, December 5, 1958, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 5; William Overton, Engineer, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, January 21, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 17; P. Madigan, Warden, to Director, BoP, August 1, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 16.

201 C. Kelley, Sr. Architect, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, March 19, 1959, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

202 Robert Bunge, The Prison Equipment Research Bureau, to Sanford Bates, Director, BoP, November 17, 1933, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 

4-49-0; Monthly Sanitary Report, March 31, 1912 and endorsements, NARA, RG 94, Medical 

History, Alcatraz Island, Vol. 3, Nov. 30, 1898–July 4, 1913.

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Cell interiors were originally painted a very dark color, possibly black, on the bottom half and 

a lighter color on the top half (fi gures DB3 and DB5). Eventually, however, cell interior walls 

were painted a light color with black squares highlighting the sink and toilet fi xtures. The steel 

bars across the face of the cell were painted black (fi gures DB9, DB12, and C4). An undated 

illustration of a guard taking notes in a cell shows the prisoner’s fi ve-digit inmate number 

painted in white on the black bars, in addition to the cell number (fi gure C5).

The army designated the individual cell blocks numbers 1 through 6. Cells were numbered 

from north to south with Cell #1 on the ground fl oor of the southern end of the east side of 

today’s A-block. The number system continued on the second and third tiers and then continued on the fi rst tier on the west side of the block. Note that the army cell numbering system 

was replaced by the Bureau of Prisons system in 1934, when the six cell blocks were renamed 

cell blocks A through D. (See Jolene Babyak and John Martini’s Historic Structure Report 

Addendum: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Numbering Systems for a thorough discussion of the numbering system, with helpful illustrations.)

The corridors between the blocks were painted white with darker colors highlighting the railings and walkways on the second and third tiers. A 1930 photograph of the Cell House interior is captioned: “Their quarters are painted sky blue with black and white trimmings.”203 Paint 

removal in the area north of A-block, which became the Barber Shop in the federal penitentiary period, shows a layer of sky blue paint.204

Cells 43–48 on the south end of the third tier of Block 1 (A-block) were used for solitary 

confi nement during the Military Period. These cells contained no light bulbs and no bunks. 

Prisoners were allowed only a tooth brush, tooth powder, a towel, soap, and toilet paper. 

Tiers 1, 2, and 3 on the west side of Block 4 (north end of B-block) were called “Lock Up 

Row” during this period and were used to hold sex off enders. Tier 1, on the east side of Block 

2 (south end of B-block) was “Protection Row,” established for those prisoners who could 

not mingle freely among the population or who needed protection from other prisoners.Six 

prisoners were detailed daily to clean the Cell House, though they were not responsible for 

individual cells. Their cleaning supplies were kept in Cell 84, at the far north end of Block 1, 

on the bottom tier.205

The Cell House was lit with large overhead skylights and with drop cord electrical fi xtures 

with metal shades (fi gures DB5, DB7, DB9, DB10, and DB12). The fl oor was made of concrete, 

polished to a high gloss. Figure DB5 shows a row of what may be spit boxes placed in front of 

cells in Block 3, or C-block.

When the prison opened in February 1912 the ventilation in the Cell House seemed “excellent,” but operation of the system was not “entirely satisfactory.” Within weeks, however, 

the ventilation system was improved, with windows open day and night. Screens were being 

made as well, as they had been left out or forgotten during the overall construction. Cells 

were 105 ̋ long, 60 ̋ wide, and 104 ̋ high, which provided 379 cubic feet of air space for each 

203 Caption from reverse of image AAC-9355, San Francisco Historical Photograph Collection, 

San Francisco Public Library, on San Francisco Public Library website.

204 Physical evidence located and photographed by John Martini, in GGNRA fi les.

205 No. 31, No. 48, No. 49, and No. 50, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz).
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

prisoner. Ventilation was accomplished by opening the windows and by the indirect heating 

system, which was vented into each cell through 6 ̋ × 8 ̋ grates.206

In 1925, a ventilating system was installed using material that had been on site for several 

years. Pipes ran from individual cells to fans, which ensured “an adequate supply of pure 

fresh air.”207

Windows were replaced and repaired throughout the building from at least 1929 though 1932. 

In May 1929, windows on the west side of the Cell House were repaired, and in 1931, 50 hollow metal sash windows were replaced with steel detention-type windows. The next spring 

an additional 64 of the old windows were replaced with the steel detention-type windows, 

and in September 1932 a fi nal 45 windows on the east side of the Cell House were replaced.208

Figure EX9 shows the old type of sash windows.

Cell Furnishings, Disciplinary Barracks Period 

According to 1928 regulations, prisoners were allowed the following personal possessions in 

their cells:

one Bible one soap one shoe polish 

one cup and saucer one tooth powder one tooth brush

one lead pencil one comb one towel

one book of regulations one hair brush tobacco

one sapolio or sand soap one mirror pictures of nearest relatives209

one shoe brush

According to a plan provided in General Orders issued in 1915, these items were to be displayed on the shelf and were inspected weekly. The 1915 regulations also provided for a whisk 

broom in each cell (fi gure C1). Note that prisoners shaved in the Barber Shop in the basement 

of the Main Prison Building, and so did not have any shaving supplies in their cells.210

By 1930, the tobacco permitted in cells could be in the form of smoking tobacco, cigarettes, or 

pipes, and the pictures were to include either four snapshots or one photograph only. Prisoners 

may have had sewing supplies in their cells during the day, as those prisoners detailed to police 

the Cell House were responsible for collecting and distributing sewing materials. 

First-class prisoners were allowed three library books and two magazines in their cells, and 

prisoners attending evening school could keep one notebook. Second-class prisoners were 

206 Monthly Sanitary Report, March 31, 1912 and endorsements, NARA, RG 94, Medical History, 

Alcatraz Island, Vol. 3, Nov. 30, 1898–July 4, 1913.

207 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

208 Building Book, Alcatraz, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2. 

209 Regulations and Information for the United States Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, July 1, 1928, GGNRA Park Archive collections. “Sapolio” was a scouring soap made of 

ground quartz and tallow soap.

210 No. 27, in Major W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz) and General Orders 14, 

May 21, 1915, Pacifi c Branch, United States Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, courtesy Michael Esslinger.

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allowed only one library book, one Bible, and one magazine in their cells, and third-class prisoners were allowed only a Bible to read in their cells.A book of regulations was also issued 

to each new arrival.211 The rules about reading material varied, however, because in 1928 fi rst 

class prisoners could have two volumes of fi ction, two magazines, and one technical volume, 

in addition to text books and a dictionary.212

In addition to personal possessions, prisoners had the following prison clothing and bedding 

in their cells:

fi ve blankets one pair of rubber boots, two pairs of shoes

one coat when issued one pillow case

one fatigue suit one slicker, when issued one shirt

one mattress cover one cap one undershirt

two numbers one drawers one pair of socks

one pair of gloves, one handkerchief, one raincoat, and

 when issued one mattress two trousers213

Note that pillows are not on the list, but must have been issued along with the pillow cases. 

Sheets were not issued.

Immediately after the prison opened, medical staff recommended that all of the blankets be 

washed before being issued to new inmates and that mattress covers be washed every two 

weeks. Pillow cases were washed weekly, mattress covers were washed periodically, but blankets were assigned to cells rather than to prisoners, and so were not scheduled for washing 

like other bedding and issued clothing. By May 1912, Maj. C. Buck of the Medical Corps again 

strongly recommended that blankets be washed and disinfected. Two cases of tuberculosis 

were discovered in the prison, and he warned that unwashed blankets used by other prisoners could infect them with the disease.214

Overview, Federal Penitentiary Period 

Signifi cant physical changes were made to the Cell House when the Bureau of Prisons took 

over Alcatraz from the army. As the attorney general pointed out to the Secretary of War 

shortly before the transfer was made: “The Army, with ample enlisted personnel, is not dependent upon security of cells and other jail equipment to the same degree as the Prison 

Service, with a very limited guard force.”215 Serious upgrades in security were necessary, and 

renovations were made between early 1934 and the federal penitentiary’s opening in August 

of that year.

The door that led from the Commandant’s Offi ce—soon to become the Warden’s Offi ce—was 

removed and fi lled in with concrete. Tool-proof steel window guards were installed on all the 

211 No. 31, No. 48, No. 60, No. 53, and No. 57, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz).

212 Regulations and Information for the United States Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California.

213 Ibid.

214 Monthly Sanitary Report, March 31, 1912 and endorsements, and May 31, 1912, NARA, RG 

94, Medical History, Alcatraz Island, Vol. 3, Nov. 30, 1898–July 4, 1913.

215 Attorney General to the Secretary of War, December 21, 1933, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-0.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Cell House windows, and new steel plate and grating doors were installed between the Cell 

House and the outside stairways in the northwest and southwest corners of the Cell House, 

both of which led to the industrial area.216

A new sliding steel gate door was put between the Cell House and the Mess Hall, and the four 

sets of spiral stairs were removed. New staircases were constructed at both ends of B and C 

blocks, which necessitated the removal of three cells on each end. Cell blocks 1 and 6, the two 

smallest outside blocks (renamed Blocks A and D), were not to be used for the general population, and access to these was prevented by a mesh grating. The corridors between the army’s 

Blocks 2 and 3 and between Blocks 4 and 5 were enclosed with grates that created two long 

blocks.217

The space above the top of the upper tier of cells was enclosed with steel grating, as was the 

space under the radiators on the Cell House, and doors to utility corridors were replaced. The 

cell fronts on Blocks B and C were all upgraded, as were the cell locking mechanisms. The 

wooden bridges to the second fl oor of the Administration Wing were removed, and the openings to the second fl oor were fi lled in with concrete. Two-tiered gun galleries were installed 

on the north and south ends of the Main Prison Building.218

Proper ventilation in the Cell House was a concern for the Bureau of Prisons, just as it had 

been for the army. Nearly a year after the institution opened, Medical Offi cer George Hess 

termed the ventilation at night “still unsatisfactory,” though he felt that it was not due to the 

facilities, but to the temperature in the Cell House being too high at night.219 Nonetheless, the 

next year $4,000 in funding was approved to replace the 1925 ventilating fans and motors that 

were “all old and noisy and . . . badly worn.”220

Construction of the Treatment Unit, 42 steel cells replacing the army-era cells in D-block, was 

completed in 1941. (See below for more on D-block.) 

When the Bureau of Prisons took over Alcatraz in 1934, metal work throughout the Cell 

House was repainted a bright silver. All ironwork was painted black during the military period. During Johnston’s tenure as Warden, he became interested in “color psychology” and 

tried “to lessen the monotony of sameness” through color. In his book, he pointed out that 

all cells at Alcatraz were not painted exactly the same and that “some of them had white walls 

and ceilings while others were colored and there were other diff erences that made some look 

much better than others,” although they all had the same standard furnishings. Johnston particularly liked “the combination of white ceiling, dark green on the back wall around the wash 

216 Robert Bunge, The Prison Equipment Research Bureau, to Sanford Bates, Director, BoP, November 17, 1933, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 

4-49-0.

217 Ibid., HSR, 49–51.

218 Ibid., and ibid.

219 George Hess to J. Johnston, June 26, 1935, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-51.

220 W. T. Hammack, Asst. Director, BoP, to Warden, April 22, 1936, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-2.

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basin, and light green side walls,” as it was easy on the eyes and made the cells seem larger 

than those painted all white. He also described the treatment of the Cell House walls: “green 

at the fl oor base then grey to a height of six feet and white to the ceiling and the alternating 

of harmonizing colors on the vertical supports and the horizontal railings on the galleries.” 

“[E]ntirely diff erent color combinations” were used in other parts of the prison.221

In 1944 prison administrators advertised for contractors to bid on a contract for 2,000 

pounds of “coldwater” paint, which was to be used to paint the cell interiors. The Main 

Prison Building was painted inside and out during fi scal year 1935, and at that time coldwater 

paint was used inside the cells. The coldwater paint gave a fl at fi nish and, although oil-based 

paint was preferable, coldwater paint was used at Alcatraz in 1944, since previous layers were 

the coldwater type.222

Between 1944 and the mid-1950s, an oil-based wainscoting was painted in all the cells (fi gure 

C11). When the cells were due to be repainted in 1959, the old coldwater paint presented a 

problem. The Bureau of Prisons Senior Architect advised Alcatraz maintenance staff to wire 

brush the coldwater surfaces and apply an alkyd size, as a prep layer, followed by two coats 

of polyvinyl paint. The polyvinyl, or PVA paint, was “especially appropriate for use in salt-air 

areas.”223

By the mid-1950s, cell interiors were painted white on top and a medium sea-foam green below (fi gures C14, C16, C17, C18, C19, C20, and P32). The exterior of the cells, the cell bars, 

and the railings were painted “a very light pink color” and the edges of the tiers were highlighted in red.224 A dark green baseboard was painted or applied along the corridors (fi gures 

P28, P30, P32, and P34.)

The Cell House was painted in 1961–62, and by April 1962 the ceiling and half of the cells 

were complete.225 Participants in the 1962 break-out used the scaff olding and other equipment from this project to hide preparations for their escape attempt.226

Several months before the prison closed, the Custodial Report noted that correctional offi cers 

were using ball peen hammers to check cell bars for signs of tampering. The report admitted 

that the rubber mallets that had been used previously were easier on the painted bars, but 

close to closing “we are presently more concerned with security than appearance,” and the 

steel hammers were more eff ective.227

221 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 242–43.

222 Robert C. Dunbar, Construction Supervisor, BoP, to J. Johnston, September 9, 1944 and J. 

Johnston to Robert Dunbar, September 13, 1944, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, 

Box 2; Federal Offenders 1935–1936.

223 J. Casey, C. M. S., to C. Kelley, Sr. Architect, BoP, August 11, 1959, and C. Kelley to Warden 

Madigan, August 18, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Box 2.

224 “America’s Devil’s Island: French Reporter Tells of Visit to Alcatraz,” no date (pre-1961), 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Box 17.

225 T. Bradley, Captain, to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, April 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 19.

226 Jolene Babyak, Breaking the Rock: The Great Escape from Alcatraz, (Berkeley, California: Ariel 

Vamp Press, 2001), 70–71 and throughout.

227 H. Welch, Captain to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, January 9, 1963, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 19.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The May 1946 riot and escape attempt prompted many physical changes to the Cell House 

interior. By early 1947, gun ports and vision panels were cut through the Visitors’ Room, 

Administration Wing, Library, and Barber Shop walls, and various exterior walls. Gun ports 

were also installed in the East and West Guard Galleries, which were wrapped in mesh wire 

and strengthened with additional steel welded to the top bars (fi gure P14). This was to prevent 

the bars being spread open, as they were during the riot. A stairway shielded by a steel plate 

was added on the south wall to connect both tiers of the East Guard Gallery, and the stairway 

entrances to the Hospital and down to the basement were strengthened with wire mesh. 

The East and West Guard Galleries were repaired and received new tile-covered concrete 

fl oors. Damage to D-block was also repaired, and new windows were installed on the west 

side of the building.228 (See below for more on D-block repairs.)

An additional 26 tool-proof detention sashes were installed in the Cell House later in 1947, 

replacing the old detention-type windows.229 In spring 1958, 30 steel sash windows were 

removed from the west side of the Cell House adjacent to the Recreation Yard and replaced 

with glass block.230

Security was continually upgraded in the Cell House—one monthly report on custodial activities began: “we have as usual, kept the thought of improved security and control, uppermost 

in our mind.” In late 1949, mirrors were placed in the West Gun Gallery to aff ord the offi cer 

in the West Gun Gallery a view of corners of the south end of the Dining Room. At the same 

time a mirror was placed at the north end of B-block so the gun gallery offi cer could see the 

Dining Room door, and at the top of the hospital stairs so offi cers could see inmates at the 

foot of the stairs or on the steps. An additional mirror was installed adjacent to the upper level 

of the West Gun Gallery so the offi cer could see inmates waiting for the hospital attendant.231

In October 1946, Warden C. J. Shuttleworth of the Federal Correctional Institution at Milan, 

Michigan, and former Deputy Warden at Alcatraz, visited Alcatraz to cover for the Associate 

Warden, who was on leave, and to assist with the transfer of prisoners involved in various trials. While back at Alcatraz, Shuttleworth noted that black inmates were all assigned to “the 

middle gallery in the center aisle of “B” block.” He pointed out “[t]hese are among the darkest cells in the institution,” and suggested that “they should be given cells equally as good as 

the white inmates.” He proposed a diff erent arrangement and warned that the only reason 

Alcatraz did not have racial problems was that the black population was only 10–15 percent of 

the whole.232

The north-south aisle between C- and B-blocks was called “Broadway” at Alcatraz, as was 

the main thoroughfare at many other prisons. The east-west cross hall in front of the Dining 

228 HSR, 54; John B. Lammers, Construction Engineer, to Robert Dunbar, Construction Supervisor, BoP, February 17, 1947; February 24, 1947; February 28, 1947; March 14, 1947, and 

March 31, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

229 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, December 9, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

230 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, June 2, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files (no additional citation), and Latimer, Acting Warden, to R. Meier, Budget Offi cer, and Charles Kelley, 

Sr. Architect, BoP, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

231 N. Stucker to BoP, Division of Field Operations, “Monthly Report of Custodial Activities,” 

December 2, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

232 C. J. Shuttleworth, Warden, Milan, to Director, BoP, May 12, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

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Room was known by some guards as “Times Square,” although one former prisoner recalled: 

“I never heard that expression when I was here, not once.”233 Warden Johnston set up a desk 

in this area and interviewed men after the midday meal. He wrote: “[t]hat was a convenient 

location and appropriate time . . . . I had a desk close to where the men lined up for after dinner sick call.” Johnston gave the offi cer on duty a list of men he wanted to see in the morning, 

and after lunch the men would “come to the end of the cell block and wait until I called each 

in his turn over to the desk.”234

Former convict Jim Quillen recalled his 1942 intake interview with Johnston at “the interview 

area under the west gun gallery by the mess hall door.”235 By 1949, Warden Swope conducted 

interviews in the south end of A-block and the Associate Warden interviewed inmates at the 

north end of C-block, the Times Square area. Former correctional offi cer Irving Levinson 

remembered desks at both the north and south ends of the Cell House: “Both ends of the 

cell block had desks and then the offi cer in charge of both of them—later on he had an offi ce—they could use any one of the desks. He had a lot of paperwork to go through.”236 (See 

fi gures P9, P16, P17, P18, P19, and P22 for images of “Times Square,” and fi gures P26, P27, and P28 

for images of the south end of the Cell House.)

In 1951 a proposal was made to install a “combination radio and public address system” in the 

Cell House. Prior to that time, a temporary radio loudspeaker system had been hooked up periodically, and “events of national interest” and “exceptional athletic events” were broadcast 

as a special privilege. The new public address system could also broadcast records played on 

a record player, and once it was operational the Director of the Bureau of Prisons suggested 

that edited tape recordings of news broadcasts be broadcast to the inmates. Warden Swope 

disagreed with this idea for several reasons: He felt that some groups of inmates resented loud 

broadcasts and that recording and editing the broadcast would require extra personnel time. 

Alcatraz had no recording equipment suitable for recording the news, and “the installation of 

broadcasts would only be considered as an entering wedge to demand other privileges.”237

Swope pointed out that the only recorder at the institution was a disc recorder “used by the 

inmates for recording their music practice.” Therefore, they would need two instruments, one 

in the radio room to record the news and edit the tapes and the other in the Cell House to 

play the tape over the public address system. The recording machine “could not be possibly 

handled in the armory which is already badly crowded.” The playback machine would go “in 

the same cell where our present record player is housed,” which was probably in A-block.238

As matters stood, the new address system was not absolutely satisfactory. It is thought that 

speakers were set up in the utility corridors and the resulting acoustics were not good. 

Warden Swope found the result fair at best: “Music reproduction is very good but voice is 

233 Robert Guilford Oral History.

234 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 174–75.

235 Quillen, Alcatraz from Inside, 57.

236 “Daily Routine for Work and Counts,” March 21, 1949, Morris Ordway Collection, GOGA 

3249, and Irving Levinson Oral History Transcription, GOGA 18706, GGNRA Park Archive collections.

237 Warden E. Swope to Director, BoP, May 10, 1954 (two memos), NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

238 Ibid.
73

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

distorted or muffl ed by excessive reverberation and diffi cult to understand unless everyone in 

the cell house is absolutely quiet.” He felt that the only satisfactory arrangement would be to 

use individual headsets.239

In February 1955 Paul Madigan, the new warden, requested permission to acquire headphones, plugs, and jacks, to be paid for from the “Care of Prisoners” fund. The broadcast 

system was indeed a failure—when the volume was turned up the music could be heard, but 

speech was unintelligible, and if speech was clear, the volume had to be turned so low that 

inmates had to “lie on the fl oor and press their ear against the opening from the speaker corridor.” Since all the inmates had to listen, whether they liked the broadcast or not, the system 

“increase[d] the tension on the part of inmates who prefer quiet for reading or other approved activities.”240

The new radio system was installed on October 3, 1955, and the last game of the World Series 

was broadcast over the new system. Programming was available on two receivers in each cell, 

with programs broadcast from 6 p.m. through 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and from 1 p.m. until 

after 9 p.m. on weekends. Inmates could choose from a variety of broadcasts such as Perry 

Como, Rosemary Clooney, news, and shows such as “People Are Funny.” A few years later, 

Warden Madigan attributed good morale at the institution to the prisoners being allowed to 

listen to broadcasts of Giants baseball games.241

In December 1960, at the request of the custodial force, the inmate radio system was moved 

into the West Gun Gallery (fi gure P24).242 A paging system was also installed in late 1960 or 

early 1961 as part of the new Control Center security system.243

In early 1962 Warden Blackwell proposed to install an inmate commissary in place of or near 

the Barber Shop north of A-block. Though the commissary was set up sometime before the 

prison closed in March 1963, it was never a physical facility. It operated something like a mailorder system; each convict had a catalog and could order items to be delivered to his cell. The 

commissary carried art supplies such as drawing boards, brushes, canvas, oil paints, drawing 

paper, rulers, varnish, watercolors, and drawing books. It also carried books on knitting and 

crocheting, as well as crochet hooks, yarn, and thread.244 A former correctional offi cer re239 Ibid.

240 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, February 1, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 3.

241 Director, BoP, to P. J. Madigan, October 7, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 17; E. Rychner, Captain, to Lieutenant, Evening Watch, October 10, 1955, and P. 

Madigan to Director, BoP, Monthly Report, June 2, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin., 

Box 21.

242 J. Casey to B. Durham, Communication Engineer, BoP, November 30, 1960, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

243 Telegram, July 21, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3 and J. 

Casey, C. M. S., to B. Durham, Communication Engineer, BoP, November 30, 1960, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz, S, E & M Files, Box 6.

244 Blackwell to John Moran, Chief, Construction Division, BoP, January 24, 1962, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1 and Surplus Property List, February 19, 1963, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7. Warden Blackwell’s correspondence 

with John Moran included two photographs of the proposed location of the new commissary. See fi gures Bar5 and Bar6.

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called that four or fi ve cells on the ground fl oor of the west end of A-block were used to store 

commissary stock and that convicts were not allowed in those cells.245

Sometime in 1946, a portable gun detector was installed in the Cell House to supplement the 

existing stationary gun detectors. The original three gun detectors were located on the wharf, 

at the front entrance of the Administration Wing leading to the Cell House, and at the rear 

entrance to the Cell House where prisoners left the main building for the shop area. The need 

for the new gun detector was explained in an estimate developed during World War II: “[I]t 

could be used at the entrance to the basement and shifted when necessary to the entrance to 

the Dining Room in order to pick up any knives or other metals that might be brought into 

the cell block by inmates assigned to kitchen duty and if necessary could be placed at the 

doorway leading from the cell house to the recreational yard in the event that the stationary 

detector at that point should be out of order.”246

The portable gun or metal detector could also be used to supplement the mattress frisker, 

which was acquired in 1938. The Alnor Forewarn Mattress Frisker was a device housed in a 

wooden box about four feet high and was used by correctional offi cers to scan mattresses on 

a regular basis. The frisker was declared surplus in 1957.247 A “paddle-type frisker” was in use 

at Alcatraz during the early 1960s and was transferred to another penitentiary in the federal 

system when Alcatraz closed in 1963.248

In December 1961 a new portable metal detector was installed in the Cell House. It was needed for immediate use “outside the rear door of the cell house leading to the yard,” but since it 

was portable it could be used anywhere inside the Cell House.249

Inmates provided much of the general janitorial work in the Cell House. These inmates, called 

orderlies, would: “sweep the galleries, wipe the rails, wash the windows, dust the side walls, 

and polish the fl oors.”250 They also painted the Cell House walls, railings, and cell interiors. In 

a letter published in Warden Johnston’s book on Alcatraz, a prisoner wrote: “The cell house 

is clean, so clean that the fl oors refl ect light. They are of concrete; literally they are being 

cleaned continuously [so] that they are polished until they show refl ection. The same is true 

of the railings and of everything else.”251

One afternoon each week, Cell House orderlies helped move supplies under the supervision 

of the offi cer in charge. Supplies were stored in A-block, and included push brooms, scrub 

245 Jim Albright interview by John Martini, August 9, 2003, notes in GGNRA Park Archives collections.

246 Post War Program, Special Repairs and Replacements, January 22, 1945, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-06-03, Box 2 and Robert Barnes, Acting Construction Supervisor, 

to Files, June 26, 1946, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-06-03, Box 4.

247 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, March 28, 1938, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 21 and S. Andretta, Admin. Asst., Attorney General, to J. Bennett, Director, BoP, July 

25, 1957, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 5.

248 P. Madigan, Warden, McNeil Island, to Noah Alldredge, BoP, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

249 Blackwell to Director, BoP, January 3, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-06-03, 

Box 16; P. Madigan to Director, BoP, March 13, 1961 and N. Alldredge, Admin., BoP, to Mr. 

Wilkinson, BoP, March 16, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4.

250 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 241.

251 Ibid., 131.
75

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

brushes, light bulbs, cleanser, mops, toilet tissue, fl oor wax, and paint for walls and fl oors. 

One orderly was assigned to wax and polish fl oors every afternoon, and by 1952 two new 

electric fl oor polishers were requested so that one could be used exclusively in the Cell House 

and one in the Hospital and Dining Room.252

In 1952, Alcatraz administration put in a request to purchase a large two-compartment mop 

truck. They argued that “due to the large fl oor area to be covered” several inmates were employed at the same time; therefore, a large truck would be more effi cient and economical than 

the small mop buckets with wringers currently in use.253

Inmates were responsible for cleaning and straightening their own cells. At the wake up bell, 

they were to make the bed, arrange the cell “neat and orderly,” and sweep the fl oor. Cigarette 

butts, ashes, and pipe cleanings could be fl ushed down the toilet, but larger objects could not. 

Inmates could also get hot water and a scrub brush to scrub down their cells, but only with 

permission of the Cell House offi cer in charge.254

Cell Furnishings, Federal Penitentiary Period

The fi rst inmates to arrive at Alcatraz in August 1934 were permitted to keep the following 

items in their cells:

1 Bible 1 cake soap 1 blue coat

2 library books 1 drinking cup 1 pair blue trousers

2 magazines 1 shaving cup with soap and 1 blue shirt 

1 regulation book brush 1 undershirt

1 letter fi le 1 nail clipper 1 pair drawers

pictures of relatives only medicine issued by the doctor 1 belt

1 pair reading glasses tobacco—pipe or cigarette 3 blankets

1 tooth brush 1 needle and thread 2 sheets

tooth powder 1 whisk broom 1 pillow and slip

1 comb 2 pair socks 1 mattress and cover

2 towels (face and bath) 1 handkerchief 1 suit coveralls

Other articles could be kept in cells with special permission and had to be listed on a 

permit card.255

All items were prison issue except for reading materials and pictures of relatives. Bedding for 

the prison was ordered months before the fi rst inmates arrived, as Bureau of Prisons administrative staff had to adhere to strict federal procurement procedures. The army transferred 100 

252 “Routine for Cell House,” 1949, Morris Ordway Collection, GOGA 3249, GGNRA Park Archives collections; Monthly Inventory Report, Cellhouse Supplies, February 1950, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11; “Item Justifi cation–1952 Equipment Budget,” 

May 8, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

253 Item Justifi cation–1953 Equipment Budget, May 8, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

254 “Routine for Cell House,” 1949 and “Daily Routine for Work and Counts,” 1949.

255 List of articles permitted in cells, August 26, 1934, GOGA 18321, Weller Collection, GGNRA 

Park Archives collection.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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76

gray wool blankets to the prison, but when the new blankets had not arrived by July 1934, the 

Chief Clerk at Alcatraz wrote: “we need blankets very badly.”256

The new blankets measured 54 ̋ × 84 ̋ with a cotton warp and wool fi lling. Pillows weighed 

three and a half pounds and were covered in blue and white striped cotton ticking. Sheets 

and pillowcases were made of bleached cotton.257 Sometime around 1938 the Bureau of 

Prisons adopted a special cotton and wool weave, which, combined with a three-inch gray 

stripe placed eight inches from each end of the blankets, created distinctive prison service 

bedding.258 Turkish bath towels measuring 22 ̋ × 44 ̋ were also purchased by the hundreds, as 

were huck hand towels.259

In 1940 more than 330 new cotton mattresses were purchased for the Cell House, but none 

of these were replaced for the next 10 years. By 1950, inmates were given one new mattress 

and one old mattress, and 50 new mattresses were requested to replace those that had worn 

out. Alcatraz administration noted in a 1951 budget justifi cation that mattresses had not been 

replaced on schedule in the past, and “the only reason that we have been able to get by is due 

to our declining average population over the past several years.” By 1956, two mattresses were 

standard issue.260

In addition to purchasing new mattresses, Alcatraz also accepted several shipments of surplus mattresses from Tule Lake Detention Center, a former internment center for JapaneseAmericans relocated from the West Coast during World War II. The mattresses, measuring 

30 ̋ × 74 ̋ × 4 ̋, were two inches too wide, but the wider mattresses were squeezed to fi t the 

“normal inmate bed.” In 1956, natural-colored cotton drill mattress covers were purchased 

from the Marine Corps Depot.261

Tax-free tobacco was ordered by the ton for Alcatraz, for use in both cigarettes and pipes. 

It was distributed freely among the inmates to prevent its being used as a form of currency, 

although there were rules governing where and when inmates could smoke. In the 1930s the 

cigarette tobacco was packaged in cloth bags of no more than three ounces each, while the 

pipe tobacco was packaged in paper or tinfoil. Each bag came with two or three 15-count 

packages of cigarette papers. 

256 Receiving Report, July 31, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 15; L. 

Mills, Chief Clerk, to Director, BoP, July 21, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 

4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-4.

257 L. Mills, Chief Clerk, Alcatraz, to J. Bennett, Assistant Director, BoP, May 29, 1934; Invitation 

to Bid, April 25, 1934; Invitation to Bid, April 20, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-4.

258 W. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, to J. Johnston, June 26, 1940, and Purchase Authority 

form, August 9, 1938, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

259 Purchase Authorities, June 29, 1940; October 29, 1940; June 13, 1941, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

260 Item Justifi cation–1951 Equipment Budget, April 28, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 2; Institution Rules and Regulations, United States Penitentiary, Alcatraz, California, 8–9.

261 E. Swope to Director, BoP, December 15, 1954; J. Miller, Chief, Fiscal and Business Branch, 

BoP, to Warden Heritage, McNeil Island, July 28, 1958; G. Smith, Budget Offi cer, BoP, to E. 

Swope, March 8, 1954; Chief Clerk, Alcatraz, to Chief, Procurement Section, BoP, May 23, 

1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz, S, E, & M Files, Box 6.
77

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The R. J. Reynolds Company shipped more than 2,100 pounds each of Stud and George 

Washington-brand tobacco to Alcatraz in summer 1936. By 1945, the annual tobacco requirement for Alcatraz inmates was 2,736 pounds of cigarette tobacco and 3,240 pounds of cut 

plug pipe tobacco. Pipes were provided by the prison.262 Commercially manufactured cigarettes were later added to the tobacco ration on the island, and convicts smoked brands such 

as Lucky Strike, Camel, Old Gold, and Chesterfi eld. It was assumed that convicts would be 

issued the equivalent of three packs per week.263

In 1950, inmates were issued three packages of prerolled or “tailor made” cigarettes each 

week. Warden Swope emphasized that the cigarettes were “a privilege and not a right and 

will be considered in this light by all.” The cigarettes, which were stored in the Armory, were 

drawn by the correctional offi cers on each unit, who distributed them Mondays, Wednesdays, 

and Fridays. Each convict was allowed a maximum of three packs in his possession at any one 

time, and ashtrays were standard cell equipment.264

Inmates at Alcatraz did not smoke cigars, and when the institution acquired more than 50 

boxes in a transfer from the U.S. Maritime Service, the Warden immediately sought to be rid 

of the cigars and reimbursed for the tax he had paid on them.265

Convicts were permitted to smoke in their cells, but not in other locations in the Cell House 

unless specifi cally designated. Smoking was not allowed while inmates were handling or 

preparing food, although it was allowed at certain jobs according to supervisor instructions. 

Smoking was also permitted in the Yard while inmates were waiting to fi le out the rear gate 

and to their jobs.266

Razors, combs, brushes, and other grooming aids were also provided for prisoners at 

Alcatraz. Records were kept of the supplies issued, and replacements were given in response 

to a written request to the offi cer in charge of the Cell House. By 1949 toilet articles distributed and permitted in cells included one shaving cup, one shaving brush, one safety razor, two 

towels, one shaving mirror, one toothbrush, one pair nail clippers, one can toothpowder, one 

cake shaving soap, and one comb. 

Inmates shaved in their cells, and razor blades were handed out three times per week. The 

blades were picked up immediately after the inmates had completed shaving, and new blades 

were issued once each week. In the mid-1950s, 500 Star-brand metal and plastic razors were 

transferred to Alcatraz. Each of these razors came with fi ve razor blades stored in a plastic 

262 Invitation, Bid and Acceptance, May 1936 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937; J. Johnston to G. Davis, Associate Assistant Director, BoP, April 15, 1945, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11; E. Swope 

to Director, BoP, May 7, 1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 10.

263 Requisition for Withdrawal of Articles from Factory Free of Tax, for Use of the United States, 

November 5, 1943, and J. Bennett, Director, BoP, to E. Swope, October 5, 1949, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.

264 E. Swope to Evening Watch Lieutenant, January 4, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21 and Institution Rules and Regulations, United States Penitentiary, 

Alcatraz, California, revised 1956 (reprint), 8–9.

265 E. Swope to Director, BoP, July 31, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 11.

266 “Routine for Cell House,” 1949; “Daily Routine for Work and Counts,” 1949, Morris Ordway 

Collection, GOGA 3249, GGNRA Park Archive collection..

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

78

case; presumably the blades were not distributed with the razors.267 Shaving soap was provided in two-ounce cakes.268

When a new and superior type of toothbrush was introduced in 1950, it caused a run on 

toothbrushes for two months. Since the new toothbrush had “Prolon” bristles, though, it was 

believed that it would outlast the old type and result in overall savings. In 1956 two-row toothbrushes were donated to the institution, but were disliked by some of the inmates. At the same 

time, it was recommended that a better grade of combs be issued to the inmates, as the ones 

currently in use did not hold up well.269

As noted below, aluminum toilets were installed in some cells in D-block sometime before 

1956. In late 1955 the Bureau of Prisons’ Senior Architect commented, “The longest installation [of aluminum toilets] that we have had has been in the U.S. Penitentiary at Alcatraz 

Island, California . . . . I know personally that we are very satisfi ed with their sturdiness which 

has saved them from being broken on several occasions when there were minor disorders in 

certain cells where they were installed.”270

The old Eljer-brand ceramic bowls were replaced at the rate of 6–12 each year. Once extra 

bowls in storage were used up, staff plumbers began removing the bowls from A-block and 

installing them in B- and C-blocks.271 By the end of 1961 installation of Aluminum Plumbing 

Fixture Corporation aluminum toilets, “bare fi xtures without fl ush valves,” was authorized, although the job was never completed, as some of the cells in B- and C-blocks still have ceramic 

toilets.272 Figures C17 and C18 show ceramic toilets in the 1962 escape cells. Aluminum toilets 

were removed from the Cell House in May 1963.273 In 1960, at a cost of just less than $5,000, 

hot water taps were added to the cell sinks.274

In autumn 1960, Alcatraz received 336 new “cabinet-type” beds for use in the Cell House. 

These beds were constructed by Federal Prison Industries and included two lockers, or large 

drawers, one beneath the head of the bed and one beneath the foot. The metal beds were 

painted in a light yellow-cream or tan, and arrived at Alcatraz in some disrepair, with many 

parts broken and missing. Warden Madigan’s greatest concern, however, was “the extremely 

poor design for purposes of reasonable comfort.” Madigan felt that the steel beds would be 

267 Ibid.; Procurement Section Memorandum No. 649, May 11, 1954 and A. Williams, Acting 

Chief, Procurement Section, [BoP], to E. Swope, June 17, 1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 10.

268 Purchase Authority, July 18, 1940, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 10.

269 Monthly Inventory Reports, Cellhouse Supplies, February 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11; Minutes of Planning Committee Meeting, May 29, 1956, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

270 Robert Barnes, Sr. Architect, BoP, to Gus Harrison, Director, Dept. of Corrections, State of 

Michigan, November 23, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-996-03, Box 2.

271 J. Johnston to T. Butterworth, Mechanical Inspector, BoP, December 3, 1946, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2 and E. Swope to Director, BoP, December 15, 1953, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

272 O. Blackwell to Director, BoP, December 27, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 2.

273 J. Dolan, Sr. Examiner, to Director, BoP, May 28, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 6.

274 P. Madigan to J. Miller, Chief, Fiscal and Business Branch, BoP, January 13, 1962, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 5.
79

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

very uncomfortable since “the lockers are so close up beneath the springs that it is impossible 

for the springs to function in the area over the lockers, as the weight of any person immediately places the body so it rests directly on the locker and the springs function only in the rather 

small area between the lockers.”275

The Federal Prison Industries eventually agreed that the drawer units were placed too close 

to the springs and that the beds were not packed properly and agreed to pay for supplies to 

repair and retrofi t the new beds.276 It is unclear when the new beds were actually installed and 

the old bunks removed, but the new beds were in use by the time of the June 1962 escape attempt (fi gures C17, C18, and C20).

As early as January 1963, B-block was vacated due to the drop in population. Bunks and shelving were removed; the beds were packed for shipping and the shelving was used as crating material.277 When Alcatraz closed, 100 beds were shipped to Florence Penitentiary in Colorado, 

while the mattresses were transferred to the Bureau of Prison’s Terminal Island facility.278

Terminal Island requested the transfer of leftover plumbing supply stores, 100 new and 250 used 

pillows, and more than 600 used blankets, in olive drab, blue, white, and khaki.279

In spite of regulations and lists proscribing limited and purely functional furnishings in cells, 

inmates kept a variety of items in their cells over the years, and administrative oversight and 

enforcement of rules varied. When former Deputy Warden Shuttleworth returned to Alcatraz 

in 1947, he complained about the sloppy conditions he found in the Cell House:

Very few beds in the institution are neatly made up. Most of them simply are made up by 

raking the covers over the bed so that they reach the fl oor, covering up in nearly every 

instance a lot of stuff that should not be allowed in cells. In many of the cells there is a 

collection of so many books, magazines, musical instruments, sheet music, drawing 

pads, easels, paint brushes, and fi nished paintings, and other things for so-called study 

purposes.280

Shuttleworth’s concern was custodial, as well as disciplinary. He pointed out that all the extra possessions in the convicts’ cells made it diffi cult for correctional offi cers to search cells. 

He thought the lax situation made it “extremely diffi cult to search thoroughly enough to fi nd 

contraband, even weapons.”281

275 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, October 14, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, 

Box 6.

276 R. Hall, Chief, Engineering Division, Federal Prison Industries, Inc., October 28, 1960, and 

R. Hall to Mr. A. Cleland, December 1, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

277 H. K. Welch, Captain, to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, February 8, 1963, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files,. Box 19.

278 W. Bones to H. Wright, Chief, Property Management and Procurement, BoP, March 18, 1963, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7; N. Alldredge, Deputy Asst. Director, 

BoP, to O. Blackwell, March 6, 1963 and attachment and N. Alldredge, Deputy Asst. Director, 

BoP, to O. Blackwell, March 14, 1963 and attachment, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 1.

279 Items at Alcatraz needed at Terminal Island Operation, [1963], NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

280 C. Shuttleworth, Warden, Milan, to Director, BoP, May 12, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

281 Ibid.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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80

In addition, he seemed somewhat annoyed that in the “loose” atmosphere, none of the rules 

and regulations covering inmates that he had developed had been published and that inmates 

were “granted special privileges such as spending their full time fooling around practicing 

musical instruments in the basement.”282

On the other hand, Warden Johnston, who was in charge of Alcatraz during the time 

Shuttleworth was fi lling in, sounded almost proud of the diverse appearance of the cells:

some of them seemed almost bare except for the bed and standard steel table, small seat, 

and the shelves on the rear wall over the wash basin and toilet bowl; while others had 

family photos, magazine pictures, colored cards and geographic maps on the wall, current magazines on the bed and books on the table; others had pictures of Joe Louis, Jackie 

Robinson, Ted Williams, Johnny Lujack and other favorite sports fi gures cut from magazines mounted on cardboard and hung on the wall.

In addition to Johnston’s interest in color psychology noted above, he clearly supported inmates’ eff orts to improve their cells, if they were so motivated:

[E]very cell had the same standard equipment as to bed, bedding, small folding table and 

seat attached to the wall opposite the bed, electric light with shade, shelf with clothes 

hooks, identical toilet bowls, wash basins and ventilators and while many men got along 

without any additions to this standard equipment others in the course of serving their 

long sentences accumulated certain allowable possessions such as books, pictures, drawing boards, correspondence course texts and materials and we gave them more shelves 

and allowed them to use their drawing boards as extensions to the small steel table.283

(See Appendix E for more descriptions of cell interiors by Warden Johnston.)

When Edwin Swope came on as Warden in 1947, he apparently attempted to tighten up the 

policy on personal belongings in cells. In August 1948 he wrote that he was making progress 

“in cleaning some of the accumulation out of the cells and with removing many nude pictures 

that were pasted on the walls.” He thought that getting rid of law books and reference works 

would present more of a problem, though, and gave as an example an inmate named Wright 

who had “practically an offi ce set up in his cell with desk and other paraphernalia.”284

Near the end of his tenure in 1954, though, Swope was looking into installing extra shelf 

boards in cells, as well as providing new mirrors and cups. By 1956 each cell had two shelves 

installed across the rear wall. Consideration was also given to the design of a uniform picture frame for cell use, rather than a “variety of sizes.” At the same time, the Mechanical 

Supervisor off ered that his crew could make ashtrays suitable for the cells.285

282 Ibid.

283 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 241–42.

284 E. Swope to James Bennett, Director, BoP, August 13, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

285 Chief Clerk to Warden, Monthly Report to Planning Committee, February 10, 1954, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6 and Institution Rules and Regulations, 

United States Penitentiary, Alcatraz, California, 8–9.
81

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Inmates were allowed to buy and keep stringed instruments in their cells. They could practice 

from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in their cells and during recreation periods they could practice 

in the Yard or in the basement music room. Written authorization from the Associate Warden 

was required for inmates to practice in the basement.

Convicts purchased their own strings and other supplies for the instrument; before other 

arrangements were made in 1955 the Associate Warden kept and distributed all musical supplies. Inmates could not loan, sell, or give musical instruments to other inmates. Instruments 

and instrument cases were to be stored under the bed.286 (See Band Practice Room section below for more on musical instruments.)

Books, magazines, and study materials were an important part of many inmates’ lives and 

were some of the items most frequently found in cells. As with many of the regulations governing cell contents, the amount and type of reading materials permitted in cells fl uctuated 

over the years. In 1949, inmates were allowed to keep up to eight magazines, 12 books, and 24 

pamphlets in their cells. Inmates could own only technical or law books, and although they 

could own more than 12 books, they had to store extras in the “personal inmate library.”287

Inmates also had access to a wide range of books in the prison Library. (See Library section 

below for additional information.)

In 1962, prisoners who were leaving Alcatraz shipped a wide variety of reading material prior 

to their release or transfer. Titles included Teach Yourself Japanese, How to Keep Slender and 

Fit After 30, Complete Book of Crochet, The Communist Manifesto, and Contemporary Accents 

in Liberal Religion; there were also plenty of history books, dictionaries, chess books, and law 

books.288

Inmates acquired books, instruments, art supplies, and other cell furnishings in a slow and 

indirect way. Convicts could not directly purchase any of these items, but had to request the 

transaction through the Associate Warden. The Associate Warden reviewed each request to 

determine if it was legitimate, and precautions were taken “to prevent inmates from using the 

special purchase privilege for paying off gambling debts, or for other undesirable purposes.”289

This process took time, and Warden Madigan sympathized with the inmates’ frustration in 

acquiring recreational equipment and supplies such as checkers and chess games; pens, pads, 

paper, and notebooks; handball gloves, tennis shoes, and guitar strings. Although acknowledging the need for security, Madigan wrote in May 1955, “we often feel that they have justifi -

able complaint in their inability to obtain supplies with some semblance of promptness.”290

286 “Daily Routine for Work and Counts,” 1949; “Routine for Cell House,” 1949, Morris Ordway 

Collection, GGNRA Park Archive Collection; Institution Rules and Regulations, United States 

Penitentiary, Alcatraz, California, 8–9.

287 “Routine for Cell House,” 1949, Morris Ordway Collection, GGNRA Park Archives collection.

288 Joseph Weaver, Record Clerk to Storeroom Offi cer, August 20, 1962 and Inmates Personal 

Property to be Sent Home, October 29 and October 26, 1962, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park Archives collection.

289 P. Madigan to Mr. Miller, May 12, 1955, and attachment, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

290 Ibid.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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82

A few months later Alcatraz administrators decided for the fi rst time to stock items for purchase by inmates. These items included pens, notebooks, pads, paper, dominoes, and guitar 

strings. By this time inmates were allowed to keep two sheets of stationary, two envelopes, 

and three pencils in their cells. Bridge dominoes were to be made of something other than 

plastic, and plastic-coated playing cards were prohibited, as inmates could make fi rebombs 

from plastic.

In addition, a portion of the prison budget was set aside to provide pipe cleaners, checkers, 

checkerboards, chess sets, baseballs, bats, gloves, and handballs for inmates. Providing art 

supplies to the inmates was complicated, and the administration delayed a decision on the 

amount and scope of supplies they should carry, although they eventually stocked brushes, oil 

paints, paper, palettes, and other art supplies.291

The decision to carry stock on hand for inmate purchase, coming during the same time as the 

decision to install headphone sets and jacks for in-cell radio programming, must have made 

1955 something of a banner year for Alcatraz convicts.

Under Warden Blackwell, convicts were off ered classes in mathematics, Spanish, crocheting, 

and bridge starting in 1961. Blackwell considered these to be “well accepted and worthwhile 

ventures.”292 Books on knitting and crochet were popular, and, as noted above, the new commissary carried supplies for these hobbies, as well as for painting and drawing.

D-Block, Federal Penitentiary Period

Cells in A-block and D-block were used as isolation or treatment cells in the early federal 

penitentiary period. In response to a demonstration in early 1936, 16 prisoners were held in 

“the fi rst tier of the outside cells on the San Francisco side of the institution,” the west side 

of D-block. The Assistant Director of the Bureau of Prisons pointed out, “That is the small 

group of cells that we would not toolproof but set aside for emergency use.” He suggested 

funding be made available to segregate the isolation block.293

In addition to “isolation,” meaning limited privileges with minimum time outside an openfront cell, there were also “solitary” cells, which were regular D-block cells with metal vestibules built in front. These three extensions were built in 1935 by Warden Johnston: “so as to 

give us a two-door instead of a one-door entrance,” and were intentionally separated by regular cells to keep the isolation prisoners “some distance apart and so housed that they could be 

held secure and handled safely.”294 (The extensions are shown in fi gures D3, D4, and D5.) 

Prisoners in isolation had regular iron bunks with ticking mattresses, blankets, and bedding 

(fi gures D6 and D7). Those in solitary and isolation had limited meals, and prisoners in soli291 Minutes of Planning Committee, August 2, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 6; Institution Rules and Regulations, United States Penitentiary, Alcatraz, California, 8–9; List of Commissary holdings, February 19, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

292 Blackwell to Director, BoP, January 3, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

293 W. T. Hammack to Director, BoP, February 11, 1936, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

294 J. Johnston to Sanford Bates, Director, BoP, March 9, 1935, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters), 1930–1937, 4-49-3-49.
83

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

tary confi nement had no bunks, lighting, or possessions. Until 1940, inmates could also be 

held in the army-era Dungeons, located in the basement below A-block and D-block. (See 

below for more on the Dungeons.)

A month or more after the 1936 disturbance, 15 of the inmates remained in isolation status, 

with two in A-block and the remainder in D-block.295 D-block retained its original disciplinary barracks-era cells and had not been altered in the 1934 renovation. After a September 

1937 strike, all of the agitators were placed permanently in D-block to separate them from the 

rest of the population.296

In January 1939 fi ve prisoners escaped from their isolation cells in D-block, made it out of the 

Main Prison Building itself, and reached the shoreline. All fi ve were caught or killed before 

they managed to leave the island. The point was brought home to Warden Johnston and to 

Bureau of Prisons offi cials, however, that the cells in D-block were not suitable as segregation or isolation cells and that security needed to be upgraded in the isolation area. Funding 

became available to turn D-block into a maximum security Treatment Unit, and planning was 

underway by fi scal year 1940.297

Construction of the security cells was begun by the Fred J. Early, Jr. Company on June 28, 

1940. Demolition of the existing three tiers of cells and construction of concrete walls at the 

south end of the block between the Library and the cell block, and at the north end, cutting 

off D-block from C- and B-blocks, accounted for a signifi cant portion of the contract. The 

wall at the north end was constructed through the West Guard Gallery, but a door was cut out 

so that offi cers could pass from one part of the gallery to the other (fi gures D8, D9, and D10). 

The contractors next installed 42 steel jail cells with asphalt tile linoleum fl ooring, acoustic 

tile ceilings, and a new centrally controlled locking mechanism. Entrance to the new security block was from the north end, where a steel plate door was installed in the new concrete 

wall.298

Warden Johnston gave a thorough description of the cells in his 1949 book on Alcatraz:

In some respects it is the best block in the prison, but in it we had constructed six cells to 

be used when necessary for solitary confi nement. I showed [my visitors] the three tiers of 

cells, those on the ground fl oor measuring 6 feet 31⁄2 inches wide, 12 feet 91⁄4 inches long, 7 

feet 71⁄2 inches high, making them larger than average prison cells, the ones on the second 

and third galleries, size 6 feet 4 inches wide, 8 feet 91⁄2 inches long, 7 feet 63⁄4 inches high, 

facing twenty windows through which there is a view of the ships plying their way in and 

out the Golden Gate.

The six cells for solitary are the same size as the other cells on the ground fl oor but fi tted 

with two doors. The inner door is of steel bars like the other cells. The outer door is solid 

but the upper part has a pull down glass panel 121⁄2 x 19 inches. A prisoner sentenced to 

295 J. Johnston to Sanford Bates, Director, BoP, February 28, 1936, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

296 Federal Offenders 1938, 96.

297 Federal Offenders 1939, 29–30 and Federal Offenders 1940, 28–29, 34.

298 Construction progress report, July 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 1. See 

also, HSR, 51–53 and 446.

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84

solitary confi nement may be placed in the cell with the inner door closed and the outer 

door left open, or the outer door may be shut but with the panel pulled down to admit 

some light, or the solid door may be closed and the panel closed making a dark cell, all depending on the circumstances and, to some extent, on the way the prisoner reacts to solitary. All the cells have beds, toilets and wash basins except one which is called an Oriental 

or strip cell. The strip cell is reserved for the occasional destructive person who destroys 

the plumbing fi xtures of a standard cell. The ventilating system for pumping fresh air in 

and pulling bad air out is controlled in the utility corridor running the length of the block 

in the rear of the cells. The electric locking devices require the cooperation of the offi cer 

in the gallery and the offi cer on the fl oor.299

Thirty-six of the cells were furnished with steel bunks, which were left out of the initial contract. This oversight was corrected soon after the cells were completed, and the bunks were 

installed before January 1942. All of the cells except for the strip cell included a toilet, and 

according to an addition to the contract, the white enamel bowls were to be provided with 

“brown painted seats.” The term “seats” may have referred to the rims of the toilet bowls, as 

separate seats would have presented a security risk. Figures D20 and D21 show the toilets, 

without the seats. The fi nal report on the project indicates that metal seat covers had been deleted and no replacements were specifi ed.300

By 1956, bids were being accepted for aluminum sinks and toilets for the Treatment Unit.301

Figure D23 shows a cell with the new fi xtures.

In May 1946, a rebellion broke out in D-block, during which inmates broke toilets and sinks 

and threw the broken pieces through the bars to break the outside windows. Mattresses were 

ripped open and their contents, together with blankets, sheets, and pillows, were thrown to 

the ground fl oor of the block. Cells were trashed and fi res were started. 

All the participants were sentenced to 19 days in isolation, and once the solitary cells were 

fi lled, the remaining inmates had to return to their ruined cells to serve their time. According 

to one participant in the rebellion, the plumbing and windows were not repaired until after 

their sentence was complete.302

The West Guard Gallery was damaged during the May 1946 riot, and rifl e grenades were 

fi red through the windows on the west side of the building. During repairs to D-block in 

early 1947, holes in cells were welded, primed, and painted, and 26 windows were replaced. 

Linoleum fl ooring in the gallery was removed, a concrete fl oor was poured, and the new fl oor 

was tiled. Acoustic ceiling tile was also repaired, and steel plates were applied to the lower 

part of the gallery for additional protection of correctional offi cers.303

299 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 253.

300 Cell Block “D” (Appropriation P & R Maintenance 1940), August 18, 1941, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3 and Walter Sanger, Construction Engineer to Supervising Engineer, Federal Works Agency, January 3, 1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

301 Minutes of Planning Committee, June 18, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 6.

302 Quillen, Alcatraz From Inside, 78–79.

303 HRS, 448–449; HSR, 54; and John B. Lammers, Construction Engineer, to Robert Dunbar, Construction Supervisor, BoP, February 17, 1947; February 24, 1947; February 28, 1947; March 14, 

1947; and March 31, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.
85

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

A steel catwalk had been installed by the Bureau of Prisons on the west exterior wall of Dblock, continuing around the northwest corner of the Main Prison Building across the north 

end of the cell block. Entrance to the West Guard Gallery from the catwalk was through a 

door in the north wall of the building, near the corner formed by the Dining Hall/Hospital 

Wing. After the riot, a new door was cut through the west wall to the catwalk, and the original 

door was no longer used.304

The lighting fi xtures in the Treatment Unit were built into the ceiling and wall and were covered in ground glass (fi gures D20 and D21). The glass was strong, but not clear, so a 60-watt 

bulb was needed to provide enough light to read by in the cells. This arrangement was considered “very satisfactory,” as even when one prisoner stood on his bunk and banged his fi xture 

with a tin cup, the glass did not break.305 At some point, the ground glass was replaced with a 

perforated metal cover which remains in some of the cells today.

The outer doors to the solitary units, cell numbers 9–14, included the moveable panel that 

Warden Johnston described, which enabled guards to regulate the amount of daylight the 

prisoner was allowed. By 1951 the glass vision panels had been broken several times by inmates. The inmates were then “able to fi sh this glass into their cells and do themselves bodily 

harm.” In response, a “heavy, half inch mesh screen” was installed over the panels to prevent 

further breakage.306

The interior grates to the solitary cells were originally built with wire mesh over the bars (fi gure D13). This mesh, or hardware cloth, not only prevented the prisoner from seeing out of his 

cell, but it also prevented guards from seeing the prisoner inside. The Bureau of Prison’s Senior 

Architect expressed surprise upon seeing photographs of this door treatment and asked the 

Warden, “Would you recommend that as standard practice for this type of cell? It must cut out a 

tremendous amount of light and would be very hard to keep clean in most localities.”307 This arrangement was changed at some point, probably as part of the 1947 renovations.

Cell 14 was called the “strip” or “Oriental” cell. It included only a protected light fi xture and 

a fl ush rim toilet installed in the fl oor. Mattresses and blankets were given to the prisoner at 

night, but removed during the day.308

Shower cells were located at the north end of each tier. They included two shower stalls separated by a fl oor-to-ceiling partition, a light fi xture, two shower heads, two buttons to control 

the water, and nonslip terrazzo fl ooring (fi gure D17).

Prisoners were placed on a restricted diet while in the Treatment Unit. According to a plan 

drawn up in 1943, the three daily meals consisted of bread, coff ee, and soup with limited 

304 HSR, 26–27; John B. Lammers, Construction Engineer, to Robert Dunbar, Construction 

Supervisor, BoP, February 17, 1947; February 24, 1947; February 28, 1947; March 14, 1947, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

305 J. Johnston to Robert Barnes, Construction Inspector, BoP, October 22, 1941, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 120-96-03, Box 2.

306 Monthly Report of Custodial Activities, July 6, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21.

307 Robert D. Barnes, Sr. Architect, BoP, to J. Johnston, June 30, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

308 HSR, 52, and “Special Treatment Unit [Defi nitions],” May 26, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

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cereal and milk at breakfast. Every third day, a full noon meal was served. By 1958, inmates 

in open-front cells on the second and third tier, and those in solid-front cells with the doors 

open received regular meals, and only those in solitary (closed-front cells) received a limited 

diet. The menu changed again in 1959, when the Bureau of Prisons issued a set menu 

for prisoners in isolation. The Alcatraz version withheld desserts and limited intake to 2,100 

calories.309

The entire meal was to be eaten at mealtime, and it was “strictly forbidden” for food to be 

saved and kept in the cell. In 1956 a food cabinet was acquired to transport hot food trays 

from the Kitchen to D-block.310

In early 1949 it was suggested that inmates in the Treatment Unit each be authorized to purchase the following: one dozen handballs, one ream legal paper, one fountain pen, one ruled 

tablet, one handball glove, and ink for the fountain pen. The handballs and legal paper were 

to be held by the offi cer in the Treatment Unit and handed out as needed, and the inmate 

would be allowed to fi ll up his fountain pen once a day. Inmates would also be permitted to 

purchase up to two technical books, fi ction or nonfi ction, and subscribe to fi ve weekly magazines and two monthly magazines. No more than 10 magazines were allowed in a cell at a 

time. By 1953 this policy (if actually implemented) was changed, and all Treatment Unit prisoners were allowed only one magazine weekly.311

A-Block, Federal Penitentiary Period

The army installed solid fronts on six cells on the top tier of this block and used them for 

solitary confi nement. These cells continued to be used after the Bureau of Prisons took control of Alcatraz. Prisoners involved in the 1936 demonstration were isolated in the fi rst tier of 

A-block, although by 1937 “active and hostile trouble-makers” were moved to isolation in the 

unimproved D-block.312

Figures AB1, AB2, and AB3 are evidence photographs taken in 1941 when prisoner Henry 

Young was tried for fatally stabbing Rufus McCain, a co-conspirator in his 1939 escape attempt. During the trial, the defense argued that the conditions in the A-block cells and in other solitary confi nement areas such as D-block and the Dungeons were inhumane and contributed to Young’s mentally unbalanced state when murdering McCain. Young was found guilty, 

but the court’s severe criticism of Alcatraz resulted in a special investigation by the Bureau of 

Prisons.313

309 M. Ordway, Lt. Morning Watch, to Associate Warden, April 19, 1948, Morris Ordway Collection, GGNRA Park Archives collection; “Special Treatment Unit [Defi nitions],” NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21; P. Madigan to Director, BoP, January 4, 1960, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 16.

310 Associate Warden to Treatment Unit Offi cer, April 12, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21 and Minutes of Planning Committee, June 18, 1956, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

311 Minutes of Meeting of Supervisory Staff, February 8, 1949, Morris Ordway Collection, GOGA 

3249, GGNRA Park Archives collection and L. Delmore, Associate Warden, to Offi cer, Treatment Unit, June 20, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

312 W. T. Hammack to Director, BoP, February 11, 1936, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937 and Federal Offenders, 1938, 96. 

313 HRS, 438–39.
87

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Figure AB2 shows the army-era spiral staircase remaining in A-block, as well as the entrance 

to the basement. After the Treatment Unit was completed in 1941, A-block was not generally 

used to house prisoners, but graffi ti in some A-block cells indicates that convicts were housed 

there immediately following the 1946 riot.314

At some point in the 1940s, two fi rst-tier cells in A-block were opened up for use by the 

Warden or Associate Warden. In A-block, administrators could hold interviews with inmates 

without requiring the convicts to leave the Cell House. When former convict Robert Guilford 

arrived at Alcatraz in 1948, he “went around to A-block when they had a desk in there and 

I talked to the Associate Warden and Captain and Lieutenant, they all would give you some 

kind of a briefi ng.”315

By the 1950s the cells in A-block were being used for storage and for offi ce space for clerical 

workers. In 1954 the record player was housed in a cell, which suggests that it was located in 

A-block, as C- and B-blocks were used for prisoners, and D-block was cut off from the rest 

of the Cell House. When the Director of the Bureau of Prisons had the idea that news broadcasts should be recorded, edited, and rebroadcast for the benefi t of prisoners, Warden Swope 

rather grudgingly suggested that the playback recorder could be located in the same cell as the 

record player.316

Cells in A-block were also available to convicts preparing legal writs. By the mid-1950s convicts could exchange yard privileges for time in A-block, where they could use a desk and 

typewriter for their paperwork.317

A few years later, the Director and Warden Madigan discussed installing showers in A-block. 

An existing shower on the fi rst tier was installed at an unknown date. By 1961 the administration was considering removing A-block, with the idea that other facilities could be installed in 

the space. Meanwhile, the block continued to be used for interviews, meetings of disciplinary 

committees, and storage of inmate property.318

Offi ce and storage needs soon overtook the space available in the block, and equipment and 

furnishings spilled out into the corridor. Some of this may have belonged to administrative 

workers displaced by 1961–62 renovations to the Administration Wing (fi gures AB5, AB6, and 

AB7). Desks, typewriters, and other offi ce equipment were permanently located in the block, 

and at the beginning of 1962 Mr. Harvey, the Commissary Clerk, moved his entire offi ce to 

A-block, taking up 10 cells. 

Harvey supervised two inmates, who provided clerical support for his position. The mimeographing machine was moved from the Library to A-block, where Mr. Harvey supervised its 

operation, as well.319 Figure AB10 may show Harvey at work in his cell offi ce.

314 John Martini, physical investigation, 2000–03.

315 Robert Guilford Oral History.

316 E. Swope to Director, BoP, May 10, 1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-06-03, 

Box 3.

317 Ben Rayborn, interview by John Martini, August 12, 2001, GGNRA Park Archives collection.

318 Director, BoP, to Warden Madigan, September 24, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-06-03, Box 1 and Acting Warden Blackwell to George Aderhold, Supervisory Architect, BoP, July 14, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

319 Unknown to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, January 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 19.

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Dungeons/Basement Cells, Federal Penitentiary Period

The army used 11 cells in the basement of the Main Prison Building for solitary confi nement. 

The 1912 building was built on top of the 1859 citadel and the brick cells were old, damp, and 

dark by time the army used them for isolation. (See fi gure Dun1 for locations.)

Phillip Grosser, a conscientious objector during World War I, was incarcerated in the basement isolation cells for two 14-day terms. Fourteen days was the maximum a military prisoner 

could be kept in solitary confi nement. After 14 days in a regular cell he could be returned for 

another stint in solitary. Grosser described the barred iron door and the low arched cell roof, 

as well as the dampness that caused the cell door to rust and the cell walls to feel damp and 

slimy. Electric lights were installed in the basement, but were turned out, leaving solitary prisoners in total darkness. 

The Dungeons had no furnishings or plumbing, and inmates were given only a wooden 

bucket, a pitcher of water and some bread. At night, the solitary prisoner received two army 

blankets. Grosser also claimed that his cell served as a storage unit for “the ‘ball and chain’, 

straightjacket, wrist chains and other implements of medieval torture.”320

Grosser was not the only conscientious objector to be jailed in the basement Dungeons on 

Alcatraz. In a fi rst person account of his imprisonment published after his death, Grosser 

described the 1919 improvements to the underground cells as a result of protests made to the 

War Department on his behalf: 

Everything was nicely prepared, the dungeons were fl oored with concrete smoothly 

polished, all rat-holes were blocked up, the iron springs and beds arranged . . . . I told [the 

army investigator] that there was no bed in the dungeon cell where I served my 14 day 

stretch in, also that the concrete fl oor polishing was done in anticipation of his arrival.321

Although Grosser assumed his testimony would be discounted, he admitted, “The Dungeon 

was not offi cially condemned, but on the investigator’s departure the Dungeon, so far as 

Objectors were concerned, was done away with.”322

Warden Johnston described the state of the basement cells when the Bureau of Prisons took 

over from the army:

When we took over the island in 1934 we did not like the disciplinary cells that we inherited with the building. The army had solitary cells on one of the top tiers and dungeon cells 

in the basement. The basement was dry and the Army had established a mechanic’s shop 

in the cross corridor, but the fl oor was rough and the cells were in the corners close to the 

water cisterns, the brick walls of which were often damp.323

Figure Dun2 shows the exterior of a basement cell in 1933.

320 Philip Grosser, Uncle Sam’s Devil’s Island,1933, privately published, Bancroft Library, University 

of California, Berkeley, 13.

321 Ibid.,17–18.

322 Ibid.,18.

323 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 252.
89

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Although Johnston did not like the Dungeons, he did use the cells for punishment in the early 

days of Alcatraz. In winter 1935 he had two prisoners locked up in the basement, and when 

a Dr. Bixby from the Bureau of Prisons visited in early February, he found that the men were 

held in chains. The Director of the Bureau of Prisons strongly disapproved of this “antiquated 

practice,” and suggested that Warden Johnston prepare estimates to remodel unused cells into 

modern isolation cells.324

Warden Johnston agreed with Director Bates as to the “undesirability” of using the old 

Dungeons and in response built extensions to several of the army-era isolation cells in 

D-block. (See section on D-block for more on these cells.) Although the Director requested 

Johnston’s specifi c promise in March 1935 that the Dungeons would not be used “except in 

rare cases,” by early January 1936 fi ve inmates on strike became so noisy that they were moved 

to the basement cells. During a September 1937 strike, fi ve “boisterous” inmates were housed 

in the Dungeons, or “downstairs solitary,” as the cells were eventually termed.325

Although they were “badly located, poorly constructed and unsafe because they were easy to 

break out of,” Johnston wrote later that he had to use them during the 1936 and 1937 strikes 

because there were not enough secure isolation cells at Alcatraz. He admitted too that “when 

we did use them we had to chain the men to keep them from breaking out and running 

amuck.” Johnston further explained that he did not like the Dungeons and was ashamed of 

them, and as soon as funding for isolation cells came through in 1940, he had them torn out 

and the basement converted to storage space.326

General Services Administration and Indian Occupation Period

After Alcatraz closed, former correctional offi cer John Hart, his wife, Marie, and Bill Doherty 

lived on the island. According to the Harts’ son, Bud, John Hart kept one of the ground fl oor 

cells furnished to show visitors who came to Alcatraz after the prison was closed. This cell, 

shown in fi gure C21, was on “Broadway” on the south end of C-block.327

During the 1969–1971 occupation by the “Indians of All Tribes,” occupiers used cells for sleeping and living (fi gure C24). At some point during the occupation, they “reserved” cells for 

prominent political fi gures by painting the politicians’ names on the metal crosspieces over 

the cell doors. When the National Park Service began giving tours of the Cell House in late 

1973, so many visitors complained about the graffi ti that NPS staff painted over it. However, 

the graffi ti was still visible through the new paint, so NPS rangers swapped the metal covers 

with clean covers from the third tier. The covers with graffi ti remain on the third tier of the 

Cell House.328

National Park Service Period

The National Park Service’s original plan had been to open Alcatraz Island to the public for 

several years and then implement a master plan that would possibly involve demolishing the 

324 Johnston to S. Bates, Director, BoP, February 7, 1935 and Director to Johnston, February 28, 

1935, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

325 Johnston to Bates, March 9, 1935; Director to Johnston, March 27, 1935; Johnston to Bates, 

January 27, 1936; Johnston to J. Bennett, Director, BoP, September 23, 1937, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

326 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 253.

327 John Martini to Mary Grassick, e-mail, August 10, 2002.

328 John Martini to Mary Grassick, e-mail, May 15, 2003.

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prison buildings. No preservation work was done during the period 1973–78 due to the uncertainty of the prison’s future, but in former Golden Gate NRA Park Historian Jim Delgado’s 

words, “the public voted with its feet to save the prison,” by visiting the island in ever-increasing numbers.

“Alcatraz was an embarrassment,” Delgado stated. Windows and skylights were broken; there 

were no utilities; rainwater pooled on the fl oors of the Cell House and the Mess Hall; paint 

was peeling throughout the Main Prison Building, and except for a lone cell restored by park 

rangers in 1972, there were no furnishings to give visitors an idea of how the prison looked 

when in operation.329

In 1978 the park decided to allow “Escape From Alcatraz,” a movie about the 1962 escape, to 

be fi lmed on the island. This was a conscious decision on the part of park management and 

the Western Regional Offi ce to get critically needed preservation work accomplished at a time 

when there was no funding.

When Paramount Pictures wanted to change the Main Prison Building for the movie, 

Regional Historical Architect Bob Cox insisted they fi rst make the building weather-tight, and 

then perform restoration work to park specifi cations. Little documentation of these changes 

remains.330

According to former Historian Delgado, signifi cant restoration work was accomplished prior 

to fi lming. Although the roof was not repaired, Plexiglas panels were installed over all window 

and skylight openings. Electrical lighting systems, including cell lights and ceiling lights, were 

partially restored in the Cell House.

Interiors that were slated to appear in the movie were repainted. These areas included many 

of the cells along Broadway, especially on the lower tier, as well as the Times Square area 

and the large blank wall on the west side of the corridor between C- and D-blocks. Regional 

Historical Architect Cox directed the fi lm company to match the existing wall colors, as the 

NPS was not sure of the paint scheme during the 1962 breakout.

Paramount Pictures brought in army bunks and other props and replaced shelves in selected 

cells. The studio left behind the shelves and bunks, but not the props. D-block was also partially repainted, and plywood panels were fabricated to replace the missing steel covers over 

the door-closing mechanism on the fi rst tier.

The fi lm company also removed the air vents in the back walls of several cells in C-block, 

along Broadway. Delgado recalls that the decision was controversial at the time, but the NPS 

decided that it was better to allow demolition of those walls rather than to let the fi lm company use the actual escape cells. NPS staff did not want to remove the steel plates that the 

Bureau of Prisons had installed in 1962 to repair the escape holes, pending a determination 

of the plates’ signifi cance. The original idea was to repair the “temporary” holes once fi lming 

329 Jim Delgado, telephone interview by John Martini, GGNRA Park Archives collection.

330 The former Western Regional Offi ce may have completed a 106 compliance form, with the 

concurrence of the State Historic Preservation Offi ce. A copy of this document was not located for this report, but may be located in park fi les or in the fi les of the Pacifi c Great Basin 

Support Offi ce, Oakland, CA.
91

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

was completed, but park administration decided to leave them open as a visitor attraction. 

The original escape cells were reopened in 1988. They are currently on view to the public, 

dressed with movie props and reproduction escape dummy heads. 

In 1986, the made-for-TV miniseries “Six Against the Rock” was fi lmed on Alcatraz. The series told the story of convict Clarence Carnes and his version of his involvement in the 1946 

and 1962 escape attempts. Some fi nishes work and other restoration was undertaken in the 

Cell House as part of this fi lm project. Completion of a Preservation Assessment form was required by this date, and documentation for these changes should be on fi le at the Pacifi c Great 

Basin Support Offi ce in Oakland, California.

Before fi lming, the remainder of the Cell House walls were repainted, as were many additional cell interiors. D-block was repainted, and several cells along the corridor between 

C- and D-blocks were renumbered with 1946-era cell numbers. Cyclone fencing installed on 

the West Gun Gallery in 1947 was removed, and the bars were painted aluminum to simulate 

the Gun Gallery’s pre-riot appearance. 

Two walls of the 1961 Control Center were restored, using color slides from the Phil Dollison 

collection in the GGNRA Park Archive as a guide, as well as documentation from the Bureau 

of Prisons (fi gures CC4, CC5, and CC6). The eastern part of the room was not restored so 

that the camera could shoot through the original location of the issue window.

Temporary bar gates were installed in the Sally Port in the location of the originals. The park 

considered keeping them, but they were eventually removed because they restricted visitor 

fl ow. Also during the fi lming, explosive squibs were placed along walls to simulate gunfi re. 

These discolored the paint, but had no other eff ect, and after fi lming was complete the burn 

marks were painted out.331

Mess/Dining Hall Wing, First Floor

The Kitchen is located on the ground fl oor of the north wing of the Main Prison Building, 

adjacent to the Mess or Dining Hall. A Pantry, Storeroom, and Guard’s Mess Room were located in the Kitchen area, and a Butcher Shop, Vegetable Room, and Refrigerator Room in the 

Basement were also part of the Kitchen operation. In a 1953 renovation, most of the butchering operation, the vegetable preparation, and some storage functions were moved to the 

ground fl oor, Kitchen furnishings were reshuffl ed, and an offi ce for the Culinary Steward was 

erected in the center of the Kitchen.

An extension on the north side of the wing originally held a Storeroom and small Cook’s 

Room, and the Basement of the extension contained an ice cream freezer and refrigerators. In 

1943 the Bakery was moved from the Basement into this north extension (fi gures BP3 

and BP5).

Kitchen, Disciplinary Barracks Period

Shortly after the new prison building opened in 1912, the Kitchen was described in an army 

sanitary report as “commodious” with appointments that were “entirely satisfactory.” The 

331 Jim Delgado, telephone interview by John Martini, GGNRA Park Archives collection. Passages 

verbatim.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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92

equipment in the new Kitchen included four 80-gallon steam kettles, four four-bushel steam 

vegetable kettles, three steam meat roasters, one 100-gallon steam coff ee urn, one 60-gallon 

steam tea urn, one triple-fi re French range, two large sinks for dishwashing, and two small allpurpose sinks. 

There were some minor problems with the steam apparatus, and window screens were 

needed due to the “proximity of stables and previous experience with fl ies,” but in general the 

Kitchen, the adjacent Pantry, Storeroom and “overseers mess room” and the Bakery, Bakery 

Storeroom, and Refrigerator and Vegetable Rooms in the Basement were considered well 

equipped and sanitary.332

In his January 1913 Sanitary Report, Maj. Henry Greenleaf commented that although individual meals and menus were very satisfactory, with “[t]he bread, meat, potatoes, onions, macaroni, rice, beans, cabbage, dried fruit, etc,” well prepared, the menus did not provide enough 

variety in the prisoners’ overall diet. Greenleaf felt that for the money provided for prisoners’ 

rations “a much better [menu] could be provided that would be palatable, varied and attractive.” He went on to point out the advantages of a varied diet: “Such a mess besides supplying 

the scientifi c, calorifi c and life sustaining ingredients would go a long way toward removing 

mental depression or despair that has resulted probably in cases of insanity.”333

Col. R. C. Van Vliet, Alcatraz commandant, replied that not only did he pay “strict attention” to the prisoners’ food and feel sure that it was satisfactory, but also that the prisoners’ 

ration was the same as that for the enlisted men. He admitted that steam cooking could get 

monotonous, and “at present nearly all the cooking is done on [the] range as an experiment,” 

but pointed out that a large mess fund was “used liberally” to supplement the ration and that, 

“personally I hear of no complaint from prisoners as to the food or quantity.”334

In 1928, a bread slicer, a steam cooker, and a 16-inch Sterling-brand potato peeler were installed in the Kitchen. The following June, an oil-coal-burning Rays range with three ovens 

was installed in the Kitchen, at a cost of more than $1,200. A new range was installed in the 

Hospital Mess Kitchen on the second fl oor of the north wing at the same time.335

In August 1929, new tile fl ooring was laid in the Kitchen of the “General Mess,” as the Dining 

Hall was known during the army period. The same summer, the fl oor and walls of the Bake 

Shop in the Basement were covered with white tile, as was the fl oor of the Bread Room and 

the “overseers’” or N.C.O. Mess adjacent to the Kitchen.336 (See fi gures BP3 and BP5 for room 

arrangement during this period.)

The following summer the ovens in the Bakery were upgraded with the installation of two 

turbine oil burners, a blower, and a pump, and the replacement of the old chimney. The new 

332 Monthly Sanitary Report, March 31, 1912 and indorsements [sic], NARA, RG 94, Medical History, Alcatraz Island, vol. 3, November 30, 1898–July 4, 1913. 

333 Ibid. 

334 Ibid. The mess fund was made up of money assessed of each soldier in the company and 

used for the benefi t of the entire company.

335 Building Book, Alcatraz, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

336 Ibid.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

oil system “replac[ed] wood as fuel.”The Bakery was heated with steam heat and lit with seven electric lights. The oil-fi red oven installed in the army’s Basement Bake Shop was manufactured by Werner and Pfl eiderer and measured 17 ́ × 10 ́ × 71⁄2 ́. It had a 500-pound capacity, 

and its iron front, door, and draw plates were enclosed in brick (fi gure BP5). The Bakery also 

contained a kitchen sink.337

The Kitchen detail consisted of 40 general prisoners who were managed by a mess sergeant 

and three enlisted assistants acting as overseers. The detail included two men working in the 

Storeroom, one assigned to the Staff Mess, one in the Bread Room, eight cooks, 14 Kitchen 

police, four dishwashers, two pot washers, two butchers, four in the Vegetable Room, one 

assigned to the ice plant, and one janitor. Cooks covered shifts from 3:00 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. 

daily, including Sundays and holidays, and the other Kitchen staff covered shifts from 5:00 

a.m. until 6:30 p.m., or until the work was completed.338

Three “cook-overseers” were assigned a 24-hour shift from noon until noon. The overseers 

slept in the rear Squad Room on the west side of the Administration Wing (fi gure BP3). Most 

prisoners on this detail were required to bathe and shave daily, and to keep hands and fi ngernails clean. Smoking was permitted in the Kitchen, but not while prisoners were preparing 

food. Prisoners were cautioned not to throw cigarette butts and matches out the windows, 

but were to put them in “receptacles provided.”339

Prisoners used the toilets in their own cells when necessary, and had to check in with the 

cook overseer before they left the Kitchen. The overseer was also responsible for opening and 

locking doors before and after work, and for searching all rooms when the day’s work was 

complete. Overseers closely checked all “butcher knives, cleavers, etc.” to make sure that none 

left the Kitchen area. Garbage was collected after breakfast and dinner (the midday meal) 

daily, and refuse from the evening meal was placed in cans with tight covers and stored over 

night.340

When the Main Prison Building was transferred from the army to the Bureau of Prisons in 

1934, the army turned over much, if not all, of the large kitchen equipment to the Bureau. The 

list included the following:

one Rays-brand oil range with three ovens

three 40-gallon cast-iron steam roasters

one 40-gallon Wearever aluminum steam cooker 

one three-compartment stainless steel sink with drain board, measuring 96 ̋ × 36 ̋ × 12 ̋

one two-compartment galvanized steel sink with drain board, measuring 57 ̋ × 31 ̋ × 12 ̋

three 80-gallon cast-iron steam cookers

one 80-gallon aluminum steam cooker

337 Ibid.; Specifi cations . . . Removing Old Bake Oven at U.S. Penitentiary Alcatraz, California, 

April 17, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

338 Maj. W. R. Stewart, Executive Offi cer, USDB Alcatraz, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), 

November 13, 1930, GGNRA Park Archives collections. 

339 Ibid.

340 Ibid.

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94

one John Van Range Co. 100-gallon coff ee urn

one John Van Range Co. 60-gallon tea urn

one Sterling motorized potato peeler

two metal vegetable bins 341

The range was installed parallel to the north Kitchen wall, and the cookers and urns were 

lined up east to west in the center of the Kitchen proper (fi gure BP3). Figure K1 illustrates the 

cookers and the range.

The army also turned over a hand-operated elevator that connected the east side of the 

Basement, across from the Bake Shop, to the east side of the ground-fl oor Kitchen (fi gures 

BP3 and BP5).342

In addition, the army transferred many smaller kitchen tools and pieces of equipment without 

reimbursement. These included a meat block, a tin colander, one-quart tin dippers, four sizes 

of bake and roast pans, 20-gallon stock pots, galvanized bread racks, a butcher saw, a dough 

scale, coff ee or sugar scoops, dough scrapers, a butcher’s table, a kneading table, and a dough 

trough. Aluminum tableware for the Mess Hall was also transferred in quantity.343

The army used hand-wound Ansonia wall clocks throughout the institution, and one was 

installed in the Kitchen as well. (See fi gures P9 and SP7 for examples of these early 20th-century 

clocks.) By 1951 the army clock remained in the Kitchen, although it does not appear in any 

historic photographs located for this report.344

Kitchen, Federal Penitentiary Period

When the penitentiary opened in 1934, the new administration made several acquisitions for 

the Kitchen. These included a set of scales, a metal steam table with 10 trays, and two coff ee 

urns.345 In early 1935, Alcatraz administrators were allocated funds to acquire a dishwashing 

machine with dish tables at either end, in addition to two 60-gallon steam-jacketed stock pots, 

two 20-gallon pots, and two 10-gallon pots. The dishwasher was the fi rst priority, as the soap 

and cleansers required for hand-washing were expensive and “the extremely hot water keeps 

the men’s hands in a moderately scalded condition.”346

The new Champion dishwashing machine installed in summer 1935 was a complete success, 

and Warden Johnston reported, “[t]he Stewards and guards have nothing but praise for the 

machine.” The end tables for the dishwasher cost extra, however, and the prison substituted 

341 Real Estate Branch, Offi ce of Quartermaster General, War Department, to Historical Records 

Unit, September 10, 1934, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

342 Real Estate Branch, Offi ce of Quartermaster General, War Department, to Historical Records 

Unit, September 10, 1934, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

343 Transfer of Quartermaster property to Dep’t Justice without reimbursement, June 16, 1934, 

and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 15.

344 Item Justifi cation–1952, May 8, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 2.

345 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, August 29, 1934; Specifi cations, U.S. Penitentiary, Alcatraz, 

Calif., Serving Counter or Steam Table, May 15, 1934, and attachments, and W. T. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden, February 6, 1935, and attachments, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

346 J. Johnston to W. Hammack, February 12, 1935, and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

an old galvanized table on one end and a wooden table at the other until they could aff ord 

stainless steel tables for each end.347

Dishes were soaked in sinks before they were run through the dishwasher, although by 1941 

the sinks did “not look very good.” Because the Kitchen was not equipped with tray racks, 

trays were dried after coming out of the dishwasher and stored on the steam kettles. When 

they were taken off the steam kettles they were warm for serving.348

In 1941 the Bureau of Prisons culinary inspector recommended that the dishwashing section be separated from the rest of the Kitchen with glass partitions, but Warden Johnston 

vetoed the idea, claiming that partitions would worsen the steam in that area and that he 

did not want a section partitioned off . A couple of years later, an inspection report stated, 

“Dishwashing is done in the main kitchen . . . .” When the white tile fl ooring in the Kitchen 

was in need of repair in 1947, the Bureau of Prisons Construction Supervisor wrote that the 

fl oors in the “kitchen, dish washing room and bakery” should be repaired or patched with tile 

on hand, rather than replacing the entire fl oor.349 This wording suggests that the dishwasher 

was in a partitioned area at that time.

A description of the area prior to the 1953 Kitchen renovation places the dishwashing operation on the west side of the Kitchen:

[O]n the South side was the dishwashing equipment which was poorly placed for a number of reasons. The stainless steel trays had to be carried to and from the main dining 

room by way of the front entrance from the kitchen to the dining room. The steam and 

water from the machine kept the kitchen damp and the fl oor wet making it very messy 

and hard to keep clean. The dinner and supper meals were hampered by the dish washing 

crew leading to general confusion during the preparation of these meals.

The pot and pan washing tank was situated against the South wall in the center, which 

meant carrying dirty equipment across the kitchen and around the dishwashing machine. 

A wooden table placed against the Southwest corner served as a storage place for clean 

equipment.350

The Champion dishwashing machine became unserviceable around 1947, and was replaced 

by a Colt “Autosan,” acquired on surplus from the navy. By 1950 the Champion had been declared surplus, and the replacement Colt was leaking. The following March, Alcatraz administration was authorized more than $2,100 for purchase of a new dishwasher.351 The new dish347 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, September 13, 1935, and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

348 [Mr. Taubken] to Mr. Hammack, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21 and Johnston to W. Hammack, November 12, 1941, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.

349 Ibid.; Robert Dunbar, Construction Supervisor, BoP, to Johnston, October 30, 1947, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

350 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

351 Item Justifi cation–1951 Equipment Budget, May 5, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 3 and Special Authorization, March 30, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4.

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96

washing machine had arrived by November 1951, and Alcatraz administration hoped to install 

it on the west side of the Kitchen/Dining Hall Wing, in accordance with a plan being developed to rearrange the Kitchen.352 (See fi gure K7 and below for more on the rearrangement.) 

An inspection of the water supply and general sanitation at the prison took place in April 

1936, and the U.S. Public Health Service sanitary engineer was impressed by the good conditions in both the Kitchen and the Bakery, calling them “of the very highest order.” He was 

particularly impressed with the state of the refrigerators, noting that they were “exceptionally clean, with the food products neatly arranged and stored in them.” He also noted that the 

food was of “fi rst-class quality.”353

Soon after the 1936 inspection, funds were approved for the purchase of a mixer, three 60-gallon steam kettles, a three-compartment steam cooker, a food cutter, two stainless steel tables 

for the dishwashing machine, a one-oven stove, a new potato peeler, and an electric refrigerator for the Correctional Offi cers’ Mess. A solicitation for bids for the food cutter and the 

steam cooker was issued a year later in June 1937. The same solicitation included aluminum 

roast pans, percolators, and three metal Kitchen work tables measuring 10–12 feet long.354 It is 

not clear when this equipment was delivered.

According to a September 1941 culinary inspection report, the Kitchen had “plenty of work 

tables,” and the coff ee urn and coff ee maker were in good shape. The cake mixer and “Buff alo 

chopper” were in good condition, as was the ice cream machine. A deep fat fryer was on order, and four electric griddles were close to delivery. A later inspection report noted that the 

carving tools were worn, but they were stored properly in a locked cabinet.355

One of the work tables referred to in the report was a new stainless steel table measuring 

9 ́ × 2 ́ × 2 ́7 ̋. Warden Johnston decided that stainless steel tables were preferable to wood in 

the Kitchen and Bakery, and was authorized to spend $250 on one in spring 1941.356

Although the 1941 culinary inspection found the household-type kitchen sink in the basement 

Butcher Shop “hardly adequate” for cleaning and soaking meats, Alcatraz administration did 

not consider replacing the sink “an urgent matter.” The meat grinder and platform scales were 

in good condition, and a new meat saw was on order. Overall, sanitation in the Butcher Shop 

was “excellent.”357

352 E. Swope to Director, BoP, November 6, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 1.

353 H. B. Hommon, Sanitary Engineer, U.S. Public Health Service, Report on Water Supplies and 

General Sanitation, U.S. Penitentiary, Alcatraz, California, April 1936, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

354 W. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden, April 22, 1936 and attachments and 

Invitation, Bid and Acceptance, June 22, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

355 [Mr. Taubken] to Mr. Hammack, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21; Johnston to W. Hammack, November 12, 1941, and G. Foss, Chief Steward, BoP, Memorandum for the Files, June 10, 1943, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 11.

356 W. Hammack to Captain Conner, May 9, 1941 and Special Authorization 4906, May 16, 

1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

357 [Mr. Taubken] to Mr. Hammack, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21; Johnston to W. Hammack, November 12, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The Vegetable Preparation Room in the basement was furnished with a Reynolds #45 motorized potato peeler and a vegetable slicer deemed a “safety hazard.” The culinary inspector recommended slicing vegetables with a special attachment available for the Hobart mixer, which 

was kept in the Kitchen. By 1943, the vegetable slicer was no longer in this room, although the 

inspection report mentioned a wooden work table, vegetable storage bins, and a “galvanized 

home-made sink.”358

By 1954 the vegetable peeler was “gradually deteriorating,” and Alcatraz culinary staff and the 

Warden were on the lookout for a replacement from federal surplus lists. A Sterling brand 

peeler surplused from the navy was recommended to them by the Bureau of Prisons.359

Near the basement vegetable preparation area was an area where Culinary Department workers stored regular prison clothing when they changed into kitchen service uniforms. Warden 

Johnston described it in his 1949 book on Alcatraz: 

Close by [the refrigeration plant] but near the windows one prisoner was peeling potatoes and two were trimming and washing lettuce, beets and carrots for the salads. On the 

opposite wall were clothes hooks, boxes and bins and shoe racks with changes of clothing 

for the cooks, bakers and kitchen workers so that they would be spic and span with white 

coats, caps and aprons as they took their stations to serve food at the steam table.360

Toilet facilities for inmate Kitchen help were located in the basement—“the proper place,” 

according to Warden Johnston. An Offi cers’ toilet was located “adjoining the kitchen,” in the 

north extension to the Kitchen/Mess Wing, and was for the use of the guards and civilians 

who worked in the Kitchen (fi gure K7).361 At some point, however, this toilet was designated 

for inmate use. The window above the toilet was replaced with glass brick, as were all the windows in this area. In 1960 Warden Madigan reported that the “inmates [sic] toilet on the west 

side of the kitchen” had one of the glass bricks knocked out just after the inmates’ supper 

time.362

Until the mid-1950s, inmates working in the Kitchen could bathe whenever they wished in a 

basement shower set aside for the purpose. A September 1953 report, however, suggested installing a can washer for the garbage disposal unit in the space “where the shower was located 

in the basement of the culinary building.” The can washer was constructed in March 1955.363

358 [Mr. Taubken] to Mr. Hammack, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21; Johnston to W. Hammack, November 12, 1941, and G. Foss, Chief Steward, BoP, Memorandum for the Files, June 10, 1943, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 11.

359 Swope to Director, BoP, July 2, 1954 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 4.

360 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 246.

361 Johnston to W. Hammack, November 12, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 11.

362 Madigan to Director, BoP, May 3, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

363 Mr. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17; S. Sale, Supervisor, 

Culinary Operations, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, September 22, 1953; S. Sale 

to Myrl Alexander, March 24, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 17.

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98

In January 1936 more than 100 of the working inmates went on strike. The strike largely affected those working in the laundry, but Deputy Warden C. J. Shuttleworth noted in his report to Warden Johnston that although he did not know who the leader was in the Kitchen, 

one inmate did “dump about 400 pounds of prepared vegetables on the fl oor before walking 

out.”364 This gesture seemed to be the extent of the uprising in the Kitchen.

According to the 1943 culinary inspection report, 25 inmates were assigned to the Culinary 

Department. These convicts supported the Stewards and Offi cers assigned to the department 

and ate in the Kitchen. By 1952, this arrangement was perceived as too lax by the Bureau of 

Prisons’ Supervisor of Culinary Operations, who remarked, “These inmates seem to have 

more or less their own way . . . .”365 Convicts working in the Kitchen ate “specially prepared 

food” in the Bakery and the Kitchen, setting up extra tables for their meals. Inmates were not 

allowed in the Butcher Shop, and all work there was done by cooks or stewards.

Smoking in the Kitchen was obviously discouraged, but Culinary Operations Supervisor S. 

Sale noticed inmate staff , Culinary Department staff , and Correctional Offi cers smoking in 

the Kitchen in his 1952 inspection. He reportedly asked the Chief Steward “how he expected 

to enforce this smoking regulation if he did not discipline himself in this regard.”366

The usual ratio of custodial staff to inmates was 12 to one—typically there were 24 inmates 

working in the Culinary Department, supervised by one Steward and one Correctional 

Offi cer. Prior to the 1953 renovation, three staff were required to supervise the “spread out” 

areas in the basement, which included the vegetable preparation area, the refrigerators, a 

storeroom, and the Butcher Shop.367

By 1955 there were 25 inmates assigned to the Culinary Department. Assignments included 

four cooks, three bakers, three “dish machine operators,” and two pot and pan washers. One 

inmate worked in the Offi cers’ Dining Room, one in the Vegetable Room, four in the Dining 

Room, and one served as “typist and utility.” Two inmates washed walls and did special cleaning jobs, and an extra man was used as relief. Two inmates manned the diet cart, and the man 

who waxed the Dining Room fl oor was also added to the Culinary Department roster.

At the time of the 1955 inspection, Culinary Supervisor S. Sale praised the quality of the food, 

the supervision, and the sanitation at the Alcatraz kitchen operation. He noted that among 

the culinary staff “[m]orale is just about as good as I have ever seen it,” and pointed out that 

all inmates were “dressed in neatly pressed clean white clothing.” Soon after Sale’s visit, 

Alcatraz culinary workers were authorized to wear white long-sleeve shirts, rather than the 

short-sleeve shirts previously proscribed. The change was a concession to the chilly climate at 

364 C. J. Shuttleworth, Deputy Warden to J. Johnston, Warden, March 8, 1936, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

365 Mr. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

366 G. Foss, Chief Steward, BoP, Memorandum for the Files, June 10, 1943, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11; Mr. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. 

Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 17.

367 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Alcatraz, but fi gures K3, K4, and K5 show that long-sleeve shirts were worn by inmates working in the Kitchen before the 1955 authorization.368

Sale also found “noteworthy” the fact that since most of the Kitchen functions had been 

moved to the ground fl oor in 1953 and the basement areas were eff ectively closed off to convicts, “no intoxicating concoctions have been found.”369 Brewing activity decreased in the 

Alcatraz Kitchen until spring 1958, when two or three batches of home brew were discovered. 

One of these was hidden in a fi re extinguisher in the Bakery.370

A 1962 inspection of the culinary operation noted 30 men assigned to food service, all of 

whom were “well trained and . . . doing a very good job.” There was a waiting list of inmates who wanted to be assigned to food service which, according to the Bureau of Prisons’ 

Administrator of Food Services, indicated that the Kitchen assignment was not considered a 

punishment. Many of the inmate workers received meritorious good time and some received 

meritorious compensation.371

In December 1962, inmate Kitchen workers John Paul Scott and Darl Parker attempted to 

escape; although both got off the island, Scott was caught on the small island next to Alcatraz 

called “Little Alcatraz,” and Parker was caught on the rocks near Fort Point, under the Golden 

Gate Bridge. As Kitchen workers, Scott and Parker were in and out of the basement frequently, and had access to basement supply rooms. At some point they must have been left 

unattended, because they were able to saw the bars on the basement windows, through which 

they eventually escaped. Parker used the elevator shaft to get to the basement, and shortly 

after the attempt the shaft was “inclosed [sic] with expanded metal and a plate tumbler type 

lock installed on the gate.”372

The purchase of three electric ranges and three electric refrigerators was authorized in 

January 1950, but not all of this equipment was acquired. Within weeks, the Bureau of 

Prisons’ Supervisor of Culinary Operations weighed in with his opinion on the best oven for 

the Alcatraz Kitchen, “I think you should have a bake oven, but I cannot agree that it should 

be an electrical oven. The cost of operating an electrical oven of the type you mention is prohibitive. I think you should have an oil burning oven of the revolving tray type.”373

Supervisor H. R. Taubken also took the opportunity to outline how the ovens operated:

[I]n loading these ovens, it is absolutely necessary to balance the weights. When heavy 

items such as roasts or baked beans are to be cooked, the pans should be properly spaced. 

368 S. T. Sale, Food Service Administrator, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, March 

24, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17 and Myrl Alexander, BoP, 

to Warden Madigan, April 22, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin., Box 1.

369 S. T. Sale, Food Service Administrator, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files 129-96-03, Box 17.

370 Madigan to Director, BoP, June 2, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

371 W. Rauch, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, 

May 15, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

372 Babyak, Breaking the Rock, 240–41, and H. K. Welch, Captain, to Fred T. Wilkinson, Assistant 

Director, BoP, January 9, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 19.

373 Special Authorization, January 31, 1950; H. R. Taubken, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to 

Warden Swope, February 13, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4.

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100

In other words, if you load the oven shelf by shelf, the oven will be thrown out of balance 

and the shearing pins will be broken in order to save the motor from burning out.374

The rotary oven that was fi nally authorized in June 1950 was “intended as a replacement to an 

old oven left here by the army and located in the kitchen basement.” This was the old oilfueled oven that was no longer safe to use.375

The oven was located on the north wall of the Kitchen, with steam pots and a large coff ee urn 

nearby. Culinary Steward George Stouder outlined some of the defi ciencies in the arrangement:

The kitchen oven is directly in front of the entrance against the West wall. Behind this wall 

is the bakery with the door South of the oven. . . . the stationary kitchen work table was in 

front of the oven with four steam pots and a 50 gallon coff ee urn lined up in front of the 

table. The steam and water pipes for these pots ran along the line of pots about 14 inches 

from the fl oor. These exposed pipes were a sanitary problem as food spilled from the pots 

and would cook on them, making them very hard to keep clean, a condition conducive to 

insect infestation. The lids on the pots were so placed that the pots were only accessible 

from the front side and the back side was very diffi cult to clean because of the stationary 

work table. It was necessary to carry food prepared for cooking on the work table around 

the line of steam pots to the front. At the North end of the line of pots were four 36 × 

21 ̋ electric grills which were stationary and partially blocked the passageway at that end 

between the oven. These grills were used for only three or four meals a week, but took up 

valuable space at all times. 

The steamer was located between the dishwasher and the oven, thus making another 

stumbling block at that end of the oven and work table.376

By 1950, Kitchen staff were cooking with the electric griddles and the original oil-burning 

range. There was a new bake oven in the Bakery adjacent to the Kitchen, but it was not intended for “roasting meats and cooking other types of food” (fi gures K14 and K15). Once the 

new oven was installed, it could also be used as a backup in case the bake oven failed. The 

contract was eventually awarded to the E. J. Chubbuck Company for a 12-bun-pan-size oven, 

which was installed against the north wall separating the Kitchen proper from the Bakery (fi gures K2, K3, K4, K5 and K7).377

In 1951, Alcatraz administration, together with Bureau of Prisons Culinary Inspector S. Sales, 

developed a plan to rearrange the Kitchen. The new plan brought the Butcher Shop up to the 

fi rst fl oor, created a new Offi cers’ Dining Room in the northeast corner of the Dining Hall, 

374 H. R. Taubken, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Warden Swope, February 13, 1950, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4.

375 Special Authorization, January 31, 1950; H. R. Taubken, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, 

BoP, to Warden Swope, February 13, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 4.

376 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

377 Special Authorization, January 31, 1950; H. R. Taubken, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, 

to Warden Swope, February 13, 1950, and Item Justifi cation–1951 Equipment Budget, May 

5, 1950 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

and established a freestanding Culinary Department offi ce in the center of the Kitchen 

(fi gure K7).378

The need for a new arrangement that would decrease inmate use of and access to the 

Basement was noted as early as 1948. Warden Swope pointed out, “[T]here is a print shop, 

Butcher Shop, vegetable preparation room and toilet in this section and . . . it is used, more or 

less, as a loafi ng place for inmates assigned to the culinary unit. . . . A number of assaults have 

occurred in the basement of the kitchen and this should be taken into consideration as well as 

the lack of supervision that we can give this area.”379

By 1951, the elevator in the northeast corner of the Kitchen was “worn out and dangerous” 

on both the Kitchen and basement levels. It is not known if this elevator was replaced, but in 

1961 the elevator was inspected, found to be in “very poor condition,” and was due to be 

replaced.380

A new dishwasher arrived in autumn 1951 and was installed in the southwest corner of the 

Kitchen, as outlined in the new plan. This was “a small room placed so its East wall is also the 

West wall of the main dining room.” It held the ice cream freezer and served as a storage unit. 

One letter from the Bureau of Prisons refers to this area as the “Old Ice Cream Room.”381

As part of the 1951–53 renovation, two doors measuring 18 ̋ × 29 ̋ each were cut into the south 

wall of the new Dishwasher Room (the north wall of the Dining Room) “so clean and dirty 

trays could be passed directly in from the main dining room.” A 33 ̋ × 48 ̋ steam-heated closet 

for storing clean trays was also built on the north wall of the Dining Room, between the two 

Dish Room doors.382

In conjunction with the installation of the new dishwasher, Alcatraz administration also requested funding for a stainless steel food tray drying rack, although the money was not made 

available until May 1952.383 The pot and pan washing tank, which had been located on the 

west Kitchen wall, was moved to the north wall, west of the oven, during the renovation. A 

new stainless steel table was installed in front of the tank to hold dirty pots and pans.384

Further implementation of the plan to rearrange the Kitchen stalled until December 1952, 

when Chief Steward George Stouder suggested that the Offi cers’ Dining Room should be left 

378 Mr. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

379 Warden Swope to Director, BoP, July 12, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 1.

380 Mr. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, 

February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17 and G. Jones to 

Director, BoP, July 6, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

381 Robert Barnes, Senior Architect, BoP, to Warden Swope, November 16, 1951, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4 and George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions 

Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

382 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

383 E. Swope to Director, BoP, November 20, 1951, and S. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, 

BoP, to Warden Swope, November 26, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 4; Item Justifi cation–1953 Equipment Budget, May 8, 1952 and Special Authorization, May 22, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

384 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

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in its existing location and that a wall be constructed across the east side of the Kitchen from 

the Bake Shop wall “across to the grating leading from the main kitchen to the basement,” to 

create a separate room for the Butcher Shop and the Vegetable Preparation Room.385

This plan was approved by the Bureau of Prisons’ Senior Architect, who directed Warden 

Swope “to enclose the space with a concrete block partition in which a maximum number of 

glazed steel-sash openings and an entrance door are provided.”386 The door was located in the 

center of the new wall, with Plexiglas windows installed in the wall itself so inmates working 

in this space could be observed.387

Meanwhile, a stainless steel reach-in refrigerator was purchased for installation on the east 

wall of the new Butcher Shop. This refrigerator was locked with a hasp and padlock, and one 

section was to be kept especially secure to store foods such as yeast (which could be used in 

brewing) and fl avoring extracts (which have high alcohol content.)388 After its installation in 

mid-1953, Warden Swope noted, “The new reach-in refrigerator recently put in operation in 

the main kitchen is well proving its worth in trips saved to the basement each day by the culinary staff ” (fi gure K19).389

The Kitchen remodeling project proceeded slowly. By September 1953 the new Butcher Shop 

partition was complete except for windows.390 One of the important features of the plan was 

the creation of a new offi ce for the Culinary Supervisor, or Chief Steward, in the space in 

front of the oven. Prior to the renovation, “The steward’s offi ce was a desk placed anywhere 

in the kitchen where he might momentarily fi nd room; generally, it was against the North wall 

just inside the entrance to the dining room.”391

The new Steward’s Offi ce was a freestanding structure made of glass brick and Plexiglas, and 

had windows on all sides, “so that the steward can observe the entire kitchen, with the exception of the bakery” (fi gures K8 and K9). By the end of October 1953, the new offi ce was complete “with the exception of door, lights and wire mesh for ceiling.”392

As early as 1961, removal of this “old culinary offi ce” in the middle of the Kitchen was recommended, and a Bureau of Prisons offi cial suggested that the steward use the old Offi cers’ 

385 E. Swope to Director, BoP, December 10, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 1.

386 E. Swope to Director, BoP, December 10, 1952 and Charles Kelley, Architect, BoP, to Warden Swope, December 17, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1; 

[Warden Swope] to Director, BoP, October 7, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 17.

387 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

388 E. Swope to Director, BoP, September 26, 1952 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4 and E. Swope to Director, BoP, December 10, 1952, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

389 [Warden Swope] to Director, BoP, September 11, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 17.

390 Ibid.

391 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

392 Ibid.; Warden Swope to Director, BoP, October 23, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Dining Room for his offi ce, returning—probably unknowingly—to the original 1951 Kitchen 

reorganization plan.393

Installation of the Steward’s new offi ce in the center of the Kitchen prompted the relocation 

of the fi ve steam-jacketed kettles from the center of the room to the west wall. (See fi gures K1, 

K3, K4, and K5 for the old location and fi gures K10 and K11 for the kettles in the new location.)

The kettles were originally received from the navy, and were painted gray when they arrived 

at Alcatraz, where Kitchen staff tried to burn off the gray paint and instead left black marks 

on the pots. After that, diff erent methods of cleaning the kettles were attempted, but they all 

failed. The exteriors of the kettles were painted with aluminum paint in April 1950 as a last 

ditch eff ort to upgrade their appearance. In 1952, the kettle fi nish came up in a culinary inspection report, which noted the “mistake” of painting the kettles and recommended removing the paint.394

A new red tile “sump” or drainage pit was installed along the west wall as part of the 1953 

renovation. A steamer, the 50-gallon coff ee urn, and the steam kettles were placed on a new 8 ̋ 

high, 19 ̋ wide platform that was part of the sump. Steam and water lines fed directly from the 

fl oor into the equipment, which eliminated exposed pipes. A work table was placed parallel to 

the sump, about four feet away from it.395 By March 1955 a ventilation hood was installed over 

the steam kettles, and was due to be painted (fi gure K13).396 Exhaust canopies for the griddles 

and dish tanks were funded in May 1956.397 All of the steam kettles were surveyed in 1963 

when Alcatraz closed.398

During the 1953 renovation, the stationary griddles were detached from the fl oor and retrofi tted with wheels. When not in use, they were rolled out of the way and stored in the Bakery. 

When they were needed, the griddles and deep fat fryer were plugged into new electrical outlets installed in the south wall of the new Dish Room.399 Three of the grills were surveyed in 

1963.400

Around the time of the renovation the high-pressure cooker in the Kitchen and two food 

carts used in the Kitchen and Dining Hall were in need of replacement. The Steam Chef 

cooker, manufactured by the Cleveland Range Company, was obsolete when Alcatraz acquired it from the navy around 1947. The carts, used to transport hot food containers to and 

393 W. C. Overton, Engineer, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, August 15, 1961, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

394 E. Swope to Director, BoP, April 14, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 11; S. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, 

BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

395 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

396 S. T. Sale, Food Service Administrator, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

397 Minutes of Planning Committee Meeting, May 29, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

398 G. H. Jones, Food Administrator, to Mr. Bones, Purchasing Agent, January 8, 1963, GGNRA 

Park Archives collections, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection, Box 1. 

399 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

400 N. L. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Blackwell, March 6, 1963 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1. 

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from the steam table and to move dirty dishes from tables to the dishwasher, were thoroughly 

worn out and beyond repair. Funding was provided in early 1951 for an aluminum steam 

cooker and for two food carts or dish trucks.401

The Kitchen food cart was stored “along the South wall just inside the Dining Room entrance, 

which with the bread slicing equipment made a crowded condition there” (fi gure K6). The 

cart was used to deliver approximately 85 hot meals daily.402 In September 1961 the Steward 

acquired two “hospital type” food carts on surplus. One was used to transport food from the 

Kitchen to the new Offi cers’ Dining Room on the second fl oor of the Administration Wing, 

and the other was kept in the basement for use on the elevator.403

In 1953 the Hobart mixer was moved from its location on the east wall of the Kitchen—which 

would become part of the new Butcher Shop—to the north Kitchen wall, east of the oven. 

The Culinary Steward noted that the original location was awkward: “Even the location of 

this mixer was poor because it was necessary to maneuver the mixing bowls through the 

small space between the grills and the coff ee urn to reach the work table or kitchen oven.”404

A large Blakeslee-brand mixer was installed in the Kitchen at some point, but by late 1959 it 

was considered “troublesome,” and was replaced by a surplus Hobart mixer with all available 

attachments. A Hobart slicer was acquired at the same time.405 The mixer was surveyed in 

February 1962 and replaced with a smaller machine with a DC motor. That mixer, along with 

a Savory toaster, two aluminum food carriers, and a stainless steel tray rack, were transferred 

to McNeil Island Penitentiary in 1963.406

The Culinary Department received seven surplus “8 × 8 × 8” walk-in refrigerators from the 

Department of Defense at the beginning of 1958; these were installed in the Basement beneath the Kitchen. The additional refrigeration enabled the department to carry meat supplies 

for over a month, whereas they had previously been able to keep only a week’s supply of meat 

on hand.407 The basement refrigerators were painted by inmates in summer 1959.408

401 Item Justifi cations–1951 Budget, May 5, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 4; P. G. Smith, Acting Administrative Offi cer, BoP, to Warden Swope, November 

27, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3; Special Authorization, 

February 14, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4.

402 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

403 G. H. Jones, Food Administrator, to Director, BoP, September 5, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

404 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

405 V. A. Craig, Food Administrator, Alcatraz, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, 

BoP, October 31, 1959, and V.A. Craig to G. H. Leiser, December 2, 1959, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

406 G. H. Jones, Food Administrator, to Director, BoP, February 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03; Purchase Orders November 28, 1962 and January 22, 1963, 

GGNRA Park Archives collections, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection.

407 Warden Madigan to Director, BoP, February 3, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 16 and Associate Warden to Warden, January 15, 1958, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 5.

408 R. E. Costin, Acting Food Administrator, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, 

August 7, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.
105

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The basement refrigerator units were transferred to La Tuna Penitentiary when Alcatraz 

closed, and one of the reach-in units from the ground-fl oor Kitchen was transferred to 

Terminal Island Penitentiary, along with a stainless steel 16-cubic-foot capacity unit.409

A new surplus ice cream freezing unit was installed on the west side of the Butcher Shop in 

December 1953. It was used to make ice cream, and as a deep freezer for fresh and frozen 

meat. The vegetable preparation equipment was also moved upstairs to this room sometime 

in 1955.410 A new Taylor ice cream maker was purchased in 1959. It had two units—one to 

make ice cream, which was to be used “frequently for Milk Shakes,” and a second “hardening 

cabinet,” in which the ice cream was stored.411 The milk shakes proved to be very popular, and 

the ice cream machine received a lot of use. Warden Madigan remarked, “I think [milk shakes 

are] a wonderful morale factor since some years ago they would think we were ‘crazy’ if we 

served milk shakes in prison.”412

The ice cream cabinet, ice cream maker, and the refrigerator in the Vegetable Room were 

moved to the old Offi cers’ Dining Room in autumn 1960. The new Offi cers’ Dining Room on 

the second fl oor of the Administrative Wing had opened on July 29, 1960, and the transfer of 

the ice cream equipment provided “more working space,” and enabled Culinary Department 

staff to clean both rooms more thoroughly.413 A fan was soon installed in the Vegetable Room 

to remove heat and odors from the Kitchen.414 The ice cream freezing unit was sent to La 

Tuna Penitentiary when Alcatraz closed in 1963.415

The old Offi cers’ Dining Room was repainted by the end of November, and it was used for 

“slicing meat, making ice cream and storage for paper cups, plates, etc.” The steward also 

pointed out that it was “the only space in the main kitchen that can be kept under lock 

and key.”416

Once the Basement Storerooms were freed up, the steward moved food supplies from the 

dock storeroom into the basement in autumn 1961. First, however, he cleaned, painted, and 

rearranged the basement area. As part of that eff ort he surveyed three unused refrigerators 

409 N. L. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Blackwell, March 6, 1963 and 

attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1 and “Items at Alcatraz 

Needed at Terminal Island Operation [1963],” NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 7.

410 [Warden Swope] to Director, BoP, December 22, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 17; George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 

1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1; S. T. Sale, Food Service Administrator, BoP to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files 129-96-03, Box 17.

411 V. A. Craig, Food Administrator, Alcatraz, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, 

December 2, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

412 Madigan to Director, BoP, May 3, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

413 G. H. Jones, Food Administrator, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, November 6, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

414 G. H. Jones, Food Administrator, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, April 3, 

1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9

415 N. L. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Blackwell, March 6, 1963 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

416 G. H. Jones, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, November 30, 1960, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

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106

and removed a partition between two rooms. The resulting large room was used as a storeroom for subsistence supplies.417

A “shadow box knife locker” was built on the west wall of the Butcher Shop, next to the basement stairs (fi gure K18). It could be observed at all times in this location, and “any knives 

missing are refl ected by their silhouettes on the locker wall.”418 Meat cutting was carried out 

in the basement adjacent to the meat refrigerators until at least spring 1959, as better custodial 

control could be exercised in that location.419

At some point, the Butcher Shop had a Jim Vaughan meat saw, with a 30 ̋ × 18 ̋ stainless steel 

work table, but by June 1960 the saw was crated and waiting on the dock for transfer to another penitentiary.420 By 1962 Warden Blackwell was apparently hoarding meat saws, as there 

were nine at Alcatraz and they were “badly needed throughout our service.” A spring inspection of the Culinary Department revealed the surplus, and plans were made to redistribute 

the saws to other institutions within the Bureau of Prisons.421

Later in 1962, the Culinary Department acquired a used meat tenderizer with a DC motor, 

which was installed in the basement shop area.422 The meat tenderizer, a Globe meat slicer, 

an Enterprise meat grinder, and a Delta meat saw and chopper were declared surplus when 

the institution closed in 1963, and the 21⁄2-foot-square meat block was transferred to McNeil 

Island Penitentiary.423

Prior to the rearrangement of the Kitchen, the coff ee urns were located inside the Kitchen, 

which was separated from the Dining Room by a grate. A 1952 culinary inspection report 

recommended that when the Kitchen equipment was relocated, the urns be moved “near the 

grille” so inmates could receive hot coff ee. In 1952 new AerVoid insulated beverage containers were used in the “main line mess,” and two additional 10-gallon containers were purchased in 1959.424

The Culinary Inspector also pointed out in his report that the Kitchen was in need of roasting 

pans, a mixing bowl for the vertical mixer, a ring bowl and stand for mixing large quantities 

417 G. H. Jones to Director, BoP, September 4, 1961, and G. H. Jones to Director, BoP, July 6, 

1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129, 129-96-03, Box 9.

418 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

419 S. T. Sale, Food Service Administrator, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, March 

24, 1955, and G. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, to Myrl Alexander, April 20, 1959, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

420 A.C. Kaeppel, Business Manager, to R. W. Moore, Associate Warden, Penitentiary, Lewisburg, 

June 29, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Box 4.

421 W. H. Rauch, Administrator of Food Services, to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, May 

15, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

422 G. H. Jones to Director, BoP, September 7, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 9 and Receiving Report, August 8, 1962, GGNRA Park Archives collections, Jack 

Fleming Alcatraz Collection.

423 N. L. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Blackwell, March 6, 1963, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1 and Purchase Order, January 22, 1963, 

GGNRA Park Archives collections, Jack Fleming Alcatraz Collection.

424 S. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17; Item Justifi cation–

1953 Equipment Budget, April 15, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 3; R. E. Costin, Acting Food Administrator, Alcatraz, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of 

Food Services, BoP, August 7, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.
107

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

effi ciently, and a “French fry potato cutter.” Money for these additions was authorized in May 

of that year.425

At the same time, the Culinary Department received funding to replace “various old stock 

pots” with seven covered thermal food containers. The stock pots were used to carry hot food 

and beverages from the Kitchen to the Hospital, the Treatment Unit (D-block), and A-block. 

Prior to the acquisition of the thermal food containers, “[t]he food for the hospital and special 

treatment unit was served from pots and buckets.” An electric food cart was also purchased to 

deliver food to D-block, the Special Treatment Unit.426

Later acquisitions included a 30-gallon mop truck, a four-slice electric toaster, two aluminum 

delivery cabinets for the Bakery, a bun divider, and a two-compartment stainless steel sink with 

a drain board.427 The Kitchen at Alcatraz also acquired surplus aluminum pots and pans, brass 

and aluminum pitchers, iron frying pans, and a large quantity of other kitchen supplies from the 

U.S. Immigration Detention Quarters in 1945.428 New tables and kettles were acquired in 1958, 

and the Food Service Administrator for the Bureau of Prisons commented, “Pretty soon, in spite 

of its antiquity, the Alcatraz culinary unit will be as modern as our newest.”429

Six maple-top tables were acquired in summer 1960, with three used for butchering in the 

basement, and three to be used in the Kitchen.430 The same year, the steward was searching 

for an ice cube machine that operated on direct current. He pointed out that for years the 

Alcatraz Kitchen had made ice “in #10 cans in the food lockers.” He felt two cans worth was 

all the ice they needed, and that the Kitchen could “do without” a new $1,200 ice machine.431

By summer 1961 there was more enthusiasm for the ice making machine, and approval was 

given for the purchase of a 200-pound capacity ice cube maker. It was to be installed in the 

Kitchen and near the Dining Room, “in view of the kitchen Offi cer and the Steward on duty 

so that it cannot be tampered with.” The new ice maker was working “perfectly” by the end of 

October, operating on alternating current (fi gure K12).432

In spring 1956 heavy mesh screen was installed on windows in the Kitchen, the basement area 

below, and in the Dining Room. The new mesh prevented inmates from throwing “knives or 

425 S. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17 and Special Authorization, May 22, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

426 Item Justifi cation–1953 Equipment Budget, April 15, 1952 and Special Authorization, May 

22, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3 and George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

427 Invitation, Bid, and Award, June 4, 1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box [unidentifi ed].

428 Partial list of Culinary Equipment received from the United States Immigration Detention 

Quarters, November 8, 1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Box 4.

429 G. A. Foss, Food Service Administrator, to Warden Madigan, June 25, 1948, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.

430 G. H. Jones, Food Administrator, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, August 

8, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9. 

431 G. H. Jones, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, November 30, 1960, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

432 G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Service, BoP, May 31, 1961, and attachments, NARA, 

RG 129, Box 4; G. H. Jones to Paul Madigan, June 6, 1961, and G. H. Jones to O. Blackwell, 

October 31, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

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108

other types of contraband” into the Recreation Yard.433 A couple of years later, in early 1958, 

some of the windows were removed, as the concrete surrounding them was failing. The bar 

frames were “secured by strapped steel” in preparation for installation of glass brick, but 

when this job was delayed by heavy rainfall the windows were covered with heavy paper or 

tarpaulin.434

The new windows had a vent in the top of each window, and Warden Madigan hoped that 

this would ventilate the Kitchen in warm weather. A motor and blower were also installed in 

the basement to draw heat and steam through the fl oor and vent it through one of the basement windows.435 Within a few years it was clear the new windows were not, in fact, providing enough ventilation, and a recommendation was made to improve the exhaust system: 

“Since the windows have been sealed shut, air movement is insuffi cient to rid the kitchen of 

smoke and heat.”436

Two new fans were installed in the Dishwashing Room in summer 1960, and a new gas-operated dishwasher was acquired the same year. The dishwasher was not installed, however, 

until late 1961, as it was larger than the previous machine and therefore complicated to install. 

Overhead lights were installed in the Dishwashing Room sometime in 1961 or 1962.437

In 1950 a request was made to switch from the “Soda Acid” type of fi re extinguisher used in 

the Kitchen, Cell House, Hospital, and other areas to a “Foamite” type of extinguisher. The 

soda acid extinguishers presented a safety concern, as they contained sulfuric acid, to which 

inmates could gain access.438

After an outbreak of weevils in the storage room behind the Bakery, a glass window above the 

door to the room was replaced with a heavy screen. This increased circulation, and a fan was 

also set up in the room to keep the air moving.439

An electric spray gun for applying pesticide was acquired by the Culinary Department in 

1962, and combined with a fresh coat of paint throughout the department, it helped keep 

roaches under control. The Steward’s “full scale war on roaches” notwithstanding, he was 

still not able to “eradicate them entirely.” Mouse traps were also used in the Kitchen and surrounding culinary areas, but the Kitchen was “not bothered by fl ies, insects or bugs,” other 

than roaches.440

433 Madigan to Director, BoP, May 1, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

434 Madigan to Director, BoP, March 31, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

435 Madigan to Director, BoP, May 1, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

436 G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, 

April 20, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

437 G. H. Jones to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, September 2, 1960; September 30, 1960, and December 7, 1961, and G. H. Jones to Director, BoP, July 6, 1962, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

438 Item Justifi cation–1951 Equipment Budget, May 5, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

439 V. A. Craig, Food Administrator, Alcatraz, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, 

December 2, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

440 G. H. Jones, to Director, BoP, July 6, 1962 and September 7, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.
109

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The Kitchen was painted by inmates in summer 1960; by the beginning of August painting 

in the Dish Room was complete and that of the Bakery was well underway. The old Offi cers’ 

Dining Room was completed by the end of November.441 In April 1961 the paint job was complete, and the Kitchen looked “very nice,” with a green base and a white ceiling. At the same 

time, two refrigerators in the Basement were removed, which freed up space in that area.442

The Kitchen fl oor was tiled with small white hexagons each measuring approximately 3⁄4 ̋ 

across. By 1961 it was cracked and worn, as was the wall tile (fi gures K4, K5, K6, and K12).443

The raised platform on the west side of the Kitchen was tiled in red quarry tile, as was the 

Bakery fl oor. (See fi gure K13 for the steam kettle platform and K16 for the Bakery fl oor.)

Offi cers’ Dining Room, Federal Penitentiary Period

When the Bureau of Prisons fi rst took over Alcatraz in 1934, an area in the southwest corner 

of the Kitchen was partitioned off for use as an Offi cers’ Dining Room, and held a “buff et,” or 

sideboard, fi ve or six feet long, along with tables and chairs. Although the culinary inspector 

recommended improvements to the Offi cers’ Dining Room, Warden Johnston considered the 

furnishings “simple, neat, clean, practicable and satisfactory.”444

In 1947, an electric hospital food cart was transferred from the Medical Center for Federal 

Prisoners, Springfi eld, for use in the Offi cers’ Dining Room.445 The next year, representatives of the union representing Correctional Offi cers met with the Director of the Bureau of 

Prisons when he visited Alcatraz. One of their requests was that offi cers’ lunches “be put up 

in a container that would keep them hot and tasty.” To that end, $465 was appropriated in 

January 1949 to purchase food containers for offi cers’ lunches.446 Prior to this, meals delivered to the guard towers and other posts were carried in “old fashioned lunch pails,” so that a 

meal “was generally cold by the time it reached the posts.”447

A new drip coff ee urn was authorized for the Offi cers’ Dining Room in 1950, to replace the 

Silex-brand coff ee makers on hand. The new coff ee maker was more economical and sanitary 

and required less handling “by the inmate on duty in the mess.”448

441 G. H. Jones, Food Administrator, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, August 

8, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9 and G. H. Jones to G. H. 

Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, November 30, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

442 G. H. Jones to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, April 3, 1961, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

443 W. C. Overton, Engineer, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, August 15, 1961, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

444 [Mr. Taubken] to Mr. Hammack, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21; Johnston to W. Hammack, November 12, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.

445 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, October 10, 1947 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

446 E. Swope to J. D. Miller, Budget Offi cer, BoP, January 17, 1949, and Special Authorization, 

January 24, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4.

447 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

448 Special Authorization, February 28, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 4.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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110

In later years, the facility served around 60 meals daily. The Dining Room was short of silverware, and sometimes did not have enough clothes racks for the Correctional Offi cers’ jackets, 

so they had to put them on the fl oor.449

The Offi cers’ Dining Room, left in its original location during the 1951–53 Kitchen rearrangement, was spruced up in the middle of 1953. The tables and chairs were refi nished in mahogany, and presented “an excellent appearance.” Table cloths with plastic covers were used on the 

tables. Funding for a four-foot-long steam table was authorized in May 1952. The new steam 

table would replace an old and unsanitary food cart that had been used to move meals from 

the Kitchen into the Offi cers’ Dining Room.450

On July 29, 1960 a new Offi cers’ Dining Room opened on the second fl oor of the 

Administration Wing. The old Offi cers’ Mess, or Dining Room, was converted to a storeroom, 

as it was far more convenient than the storerooms in the basement. It was also used as meeting space for Culinary Department staff .451

Bakery, Federal Penitentiary Period

When the army turned over the Main Prison Building to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934, the 

Bake Shop was located on the west side of the Kitchen/Mess Wing basement. Early in 1934, 

the Bureau of Prisons took steps to have the army bake oven in the basement removed, and to 

install a new bake oven. The contractor removing the old oven was to repair the wall between 

the oven and the adjacent Proofi ng Room and prepare the fl ooring for installation of the new 

oven. Where the footprint of the new oven did not cover the footprint of the old, the contractor was to install one-inch white hexagonal ceramic mosaic tiles over the concrete base, to 

match the existing tiles.452

The Dalton Manufacturing Company provided the new oven made of “rust resisting steel 

sheets with steel and cast iron reinforcing.” The fi re box was integral to the oven, and located 

in the bottom section, which would make the new bake oven smaller than the cast-iron version with separate fi re box, and would guarantee a uniform heat within the oven. The Reel 

Type bake oven could turn out 300 pounds of bread per hour, and was fueled by the oil burner system used with the old army oven.453

The army also transferred a dough mixer in the Bakery to the Bureau of Prisons. The mixer 

was considered old by 1937, and a safety survey that year recommended that it be replaced, as 

it would be expensive to make it safe.454

449 Mr. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

450 S. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, September 

22, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17 and Item Justifi cation–1953 

Equipment Budget, May 8, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

451 G. H. Jones, Food Administrator, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, April 3, 

1961, and G. H. Jones to O. Blackwell, February 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 9. 

452 Specifi cations . . . Removing Old Bake Oven at U.S. Penitentiary Alcatraz, California, April 17, 

1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

453 Specifi cations . . . Reel Type Bake Oven for U.S. Penitentiary, Alcatraz Island, California, March 

21, 1934, and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 

1930–1937.

454 J. Johnston to J. Bennett, Director, BoP, October 21, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.
111

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The 1941 inspection report strongly recommended moving the Bakery upstairs, which the administration had already planned to do. As early as June 1940, Warden Johnston wrote, “Plans 

for moving the bakery from the basement to the main fl oor have been completed. By so doing 

more personal supervision of the bakery will be possible, the baking service will be improved 

and the custodial problem will be lessened.”455

Although the Culinary Inspector felt that all culinary operations should be moved from the 

basement to the ground fl oor, Warden Johnston pointed out, “we have no room upstairs for 

the butcher shop and the vegetable preparation.” He felt that when the Bakery was moved 

to the north extension of the Kitchen/Dining Wing, “we will have surrounded the kitchen to 

advantage.”456 The former Bakery would be used as a storeroom and offi ce.

The oil range in the Kitchen was in bad condition in 1941, and Alcatraz administration hoped 

for authorization to purchase a new rotary oven. When the Bakery was moved upstairs to the 

Kitchen the oil-fi red range was supposed to be removed, but by 1943 it was still in place.457

The Bakery was equipped with three four-foot-long dough troughs and a bread mixer when 

it was located in the basement. The cast-iron troughs, “purchased about 1934,” became rusted 

on the inside, and in 1949 authorization was given to acquire a stainless steel bread trough to 

replace the old ones.458

The Proof Room, in which the dough was set to rise, was located near the oven in the basement and was “unsightly,” but a new proof box was installed in the north extension to the 

Kitchen in autumn 1941. By the time of the 1941 culinary inspection, money was already appropriated for a new bake oven, although it had not yet been ordered. 

The bread slicer, the “old rotary single knife type” was worn, and Warden Johnston agreed 

with the recommendation that it should be replaced for safety reasons. The work table was in 

fi ne shape, and the acquisition of the recommended “barrel type” fl our sifter was also under 

consideration.459

After the Bakery was reinstalled on the ground fl oor a subsequent culinary inspection noted 

the Bakery equipment was “all in excellent condition” and the products were “outstanding.”460 Aside from bread, cakes, and pies, the Bakery at Alcatraz also turned out other specialties. One former inmate recalled, “every morning they had fresh rolls or donuts or chocolate 

455 Federal Offenders, 1940, 35.

456 Johnston to W. Hammack, November 12, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 11.

457 [Mr. Taubken] to Mr. Hammack, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21; Johnston to W. Hammack, November 12, 1941, and G. Foss, Chief Steward, BoP, Memorandum for the Files, June 10, 1943, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 11.

458 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, June 9, 1949 and Special Authorization, June 14, 1949, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4.

459 [Mr. Taubken] to Mr. Hammack, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21; Johnston to W. Hammack, November 12, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.

460 G. Foss, Chief Steward, BoP, Memorandum for the Files, June 10, 1943, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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112

coated donuts or coff ee cakes.”461 During the 1961 Christmas season, the steward wrote that 

the Bakery staff “has made the Christmas fruit cake and it is being stored in the basement to 

age until Christmas.”462

New tile fl ooring and wainscoting was installed in the Bakery in 1951, although there was 

some confusion about funding for the project. The tile had been received at Alcatraz in late 

summer 1944, and since inmate labor was not available to do the job, the institution was authorized to hire civilians. When civilians were not located to do the work, the project apparently ground to a halt and the tile was stored.463 The tile in storage was used to repair fl oors in 

the Kitchen and Bakery in 1947.

The bread slicer was located on the west wall of the Kitchen prior to 1953, but it was removed 

to the Bakery during the 1953 renovation.464 (See fi gure K6 for the pre-1953 location.) Two new 

dough proofi ng cabinets were acquired through the General Services Administration (GSA) 

in spring 1960, and a Champion dough mixer was located in government surplus later in the 

year. The Steward, titled “Food Administrator” by 1960, was happy to have the mixer, as the 

Bakery did not have one.465 The “dough room and proof box” was surveyed and abandoned 

on Alcatraz when the penitentiary closed in 1963.466

By spring 1961, the Steward was not pleased with the sanitation in the Bakery, nor in the 

Kitchen or the Dining Room. In a staff meeting, he pointed out, “The bakery doesn’t get the 

cleaning or the supervision it should have and all stewards [are] instructed to spend as much 

time as possible in this area.” He wanted improvement by the next month’s meeting.467

By February 1962 improvements had been made in the Dining Room, Kitchen, Bakery, and 

basement, and the entire staff “expressed pleasure at the state of cleanliness and sanitation.” 

Gene H. Jones, Chief Steward, pointed out that these conditions were the result of “persistent 

and determined action by the inmates assigned to the Culinary Department.”468

Mess Hall, Disciplinary Barracks Period

The Mess Hall constructed by the army in 1911 was a “large well lighted and ventilated 

room.” Army prisoners marched to the Mess Hall quietly and at attention, and as they walked 

461 Robert Guilford Oral History.

462 G. H. Jones to Director, BoP, December 7, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 9.

463 E. B. Swope to Director, BoP, April 9, 1951 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

464 George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

465 Koeppel, Business Manager, Alcatraz, to Mr. Leiser, BoP, April 28, 1960, teletype transcription, NARA, RG 129, Box 4 and G. H. Jones, Food Administrator, to G. H. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, September 30, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 9.

466 Business Manager, Alcatraz, to J. D. Miller, Chief, Fiscal and Business Branch, BoP, May 31, 

1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

467 G. H. Jones to Paul Madigan, June 6, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 9.

468 G. H. Jones to O. Blackwell and G. H. Jones to Director, BoP, February 5, 1962, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.
113

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

through the mess line they were allowed to take only as much food as they could eat during 

the 20-minute meal time.469

Army prisoners used Quartermaster-issued mess tables and barracks stools, shown in the 

foreground of fi gure M1. The stools were the 1884 model, and may have originally been painted blue, as sky blue was the color traditionally used by the U.S. Infantry, and infantry units 

were stationed on the island. The benches and tables visible in the upper left of fi gure M1 

were probably functional “post-made” pieces. 

The army mess benches were upgraded at some point, and new benches with wooden seats, 

metal frames and legs, and ball feet were installed (fi gure M2). These benches were transferred to the Bureau of Prisons, and were used in the Dining Room until 1961.

When the army left Alcatraz, the Quartermaster at Alcatraz “turned over to the Department 

of Justice without reimbursement” equipment such as post-made wooden mess benches, 

along with aluminum soup bowls, drinking cups, saucers, soup plates, and six-compartment 

plates. The army also transferred two- and four-quart aluminum pitchers, as well as table 

forks, knives, and spoons.470 Cups, plates, and cutlery are shown in fi gures M1 and M2.

During the disciplinary barracks period, the Mess Hall and the Kitchen were separated by 

a wall. A framed door with transom and two swinging doors provided access to the Kitchen 

(fi gures BP2 and M1). By 1930 these doorways had been removed, along with the center part 

of the wall, creating a large, secured opening between the Kitchen and the Mess Hall (fi gures 

BP3 and M2).

The Mess Hall walls and columns were fi nished in a dark color up to about four feet from 

the fl oor, and the upper walls, columns, trim, and ceiling were painted in a lighter color, or 

white. The fl ooring was scored concrete, and small single-bulb drop fi xtures lighted the room 

(fi gures M1 and M2). Note also the draped grand piano stored out of the way in the northeast 

corner of the room, visible in fi gure M1.

Prisoners entered the Mess Hall through double doors at the south end of the room. As 

they entered, they were faced with a motto—“The Stone Which The Builders Rejected Has 

Become The Head Of The Arch”—painted on the wall over the doors.471 The motto was 

painted over by the time Alcatraz was transferred to the Bureau of Prisons.

As detailed in the Historic Occupancy section above, prize fi ghts were held in the Mess Hall 

during the time the army operated the prison. Bleachers were set up in the room, and a seating capacity of 998 spectators was established.

469 Monthly Sanitary Report, March 31, 1912 and attachments, NARA, RG 94, Medical History, 

Alcatraz Island, Vol. 3, November 30, 1898–July 4, 1913 and Regulations and Information 

for the United States Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, July 1, 1928, GGNRA Park 

Archives collections.

470 Index to Army Transfer Vouchers and attachments, June 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 15 and Surplus property transferred from the War Department, 

October 31, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–

1937.

471 Martini, Alcatraz at War, 49.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

114

On fi ght nights, the evening meal was served at 4:45 p.m., and prisoners reentered the Mess 

Hall to be seated for the fi ght at 7:15 p.m. The gate between the Cell House and the Mess Hall 

was then locked and up to 450 army and civilian spectators were admitted through the freight 

gate adjoining the basement Clothing Room. 

Prisoners and visitors did not mix in the Mess Hall, and visitors were permitted only in the 

hall itself and in the toilets in the Basement Shower Room. Fighters used the Bread Room in 

the southwest corner of the Kitchen as a dressing room, with “night cans” placed in the room 

for their convenience (fi gure BP3).

After the fi ght, visitors and off -duty soldiers left the building, followed by prisoners returning 

to their cells. Once a prisoner count was taken, visitors were allowed to board boats and return to San Francisco. Following the cell check, the fi ghters and a mess detail returned to the 

Mess Hall for the fi ghters’ supper. Another prisoner detail was also returned to the Mess Hall 

to remove the bleachers.472

Dining Room, Federal Penitentiary Period

During the penitentiary period inmates entered the Dining Room in two lines, which split 

either side of the steam table at the north end of the room. Inmates got their meals from the 

steam table, then proceeded to the dining tables. Former inmate Jim Quillen described the 

procedure:

When it was time to go to the dining hall, tiers from B block and C block were opened 

simultaneously by guards at the end of each tier, using manually-operated control levers. 

The entire tier population stepped out of their cells and proceeded single fi le into the 

dining hall. When the lines from B and C blocks met at the dining hall door, they each 

maintained a single fi le down the center of the dining hall to the large steam table where 

prisoners picked up trays and silverware. The lines split at this point and B block turned 

right at the steam table and C block turned left.

 . . . As we passed along the steam table, we extended our trays to the inmate serving the 

line. He would give a measured portion of the food he was serving. If we did not want any 

particular dish, we were not obligated to take it however, we were required to eat what we 

took or face disciplinary action.473

The Regulations for Inmates cautioned inmates not to waste food and not to remove food 

from the Dining Room. They were to note the ration posted on the menu board on the wall 

and then “take all that you wish to eat within the allotted amounts, but you must eat all that 

you take.”474

During the early penitentiary period, inmate servers from the Culinary Department served 

from the steam tables, as Quillen described above. The Steward supervised food preparation 

in the Kitchen, transportation of the food to the steam table, and set up of the food in the 

472 Maj. W. R. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, GGNRA Park 

Archives collections.

473 Quillen, Alcatraz from Inside, 52.

474 Madigan, Institution Rules and Regulations, United States Penitentiary Alcatraz, California, 11. 
115

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

steam table. Once the inmates entered the Dining Room, however, the Steward returned to 

the Kitchen. 

During meal times the gate between the Kitchen and the Dining Room was closed and a 

Correctional Offi cer supervised inmate kitchen help in the Dining Room and those who 

served at the steam table. The steam table was manned by two Correctional Offi cers, in addition to the Captain or Lieutenant of the Guard. Prisoners were not allowed to return to 

the steam tables, but seconds could be served to the tables by the inmates working the steam 

tables. By 1951 a self-service system had been developed, which worked out “very well.”475

Ten men sat at each table, fi ve on each side. One former convict described the procedure: 

When the ten men got to the [table] . . . you had to stand there until all ten of you got 

there. Then you sat down. . . . You’d sit down when they told you to sit down . So you’d sit 

down and start eating . . . you always ate at the same place with the same guys all the time . 

. . . Then when you got through eating . . . you sat there until the Guard [released you] . . . . 

One table would get up at a time and you’d march out single fi le. The fi ve guys on the fore 

side would come out and then the next guys would follow right behind them. Then they 

would come to the next table and they’d go like this. Everybody get up, march out single 

fi le.476

The Dining Room was a sensitive area within the prison, and security there was very strict. 

Keeping custodial control over the mass movement of prisoners three times a day was diffi -

cult enough, but once they got to the Dining Room there were many ways the convicts could 

cause trouble. In an early letter to the Director of the Bureau of Prisons, Warden Johnston 

pointed out: 

The messhall is the place where prisoners are likely to act in unison to show displeasure 

with food, rules, lack of privileges, absence of parole or any other feature of their control 

under fi rm discipline. . . . It is impossible to predict what will happen or when or where 

but experience has shown that the messhall is generally the place where agitators focus 

mass action.477

A former convict summed up the possibility of disorder constantly simmering below the surface in the Dining Room:

One night when we all came in they had spaghetti and meatballs and it was good. Man, 

I’m waiting to start and eat this. I sat down and I didn’t even get a chance to start. The guy 

on the other side . . . picked the end of the table up and went whew!, table and all, it just 

fl ew over and in less than two seconds, every table in here was turned upside down.478

475 J. Johnston to W. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, November 12, 1941, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11 and Mr. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, 

to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files 129-96-03, Box 17.

476 Robert Guilford Oral History.

477 Johnston to Director, BoP, April 21, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-36.

478 Robert Guilford Oral History.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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116

When Warden Johnston was preparing Alcatraz to receive federal prisoners in early 1934, the 

Bureau of Prisons suggested installing a built-in tear gas system in the Dining Room as an additional security measure. The president of Federal Laboratories, Inc., the company which 

manufactured the system, forwarded his professional opinion: 

The majority of prison riots have started in mess halls, and in the opinion of most penologists it is here that you must prepare for the greatest problem. When a riot occurs in the 

mess hall it should be stopped instantly. Unless it is stopped instantly the prisoners are 

very apt to kill or injure a number of your guards.479

In the end, Johnston installed 10 tear gas discharge units in the Dining Room, conceding that 

although he did not feel that it was absolutely necessary, “[w]e are obliged to consider it as an 

experiment, a safeguard, and in the nature of insurance.” The gas controls were installed on 

the catwalk outside the Dining Room in “weather protected boxes” (fi gure M4). The “silvered 

metal” units originally installed measured two inches in diameter and about eight inches long. 

They discharged a vaporized gas that was not pressurized until the unit was activated.480

The gas cartridges and detonators were supposed to be changed every 18 months, but by the 

mid-1940s were changed every three years or so. It was eventually recommended that all the 

units be recharged every two years, rather than replacing a few every few months.481 Although 

present throughout the federal penitentiary period, the gas units were never activated.

During his tenure at the beginning of the penitentiary period, Warden James Johnston regularly attended the noon meal in the Dining Room, in part to observe the operation, and in 

part because he gave daily interviews to inmates in the Cell House after the meal. He described his custom: 

I went to the dining room, took a position at the steam table, saw what was served and 

how the men took to it, noted what food items they liked and what they passed and if any 

of them wanted to talk to me about food as they did occasionally, especially during war 

time with its rationing and shortages, I was informed and prepared.482

In September 1937 some of the Alcatraz inmates determined to strike, giving as their reason 

that in other institutions inmate workers were paid for their labor, while at Alcatraz they were 

not. Warden Johnston interviewed all of the strikers, many of whom went back to work. 

The strike had been “conducted in an orderly manner,” until during one noon meal one of the 

young prisoners stepped out of line and attacked Warden Johnston from behind, throwing 

him to the fl oor and kicking his face. Several Correctional Offi cers immediately came to the 

Warden’s assistance, with one of the offi cers hitting the convict with a billy club.

479 [John Young], President, Federal Laboratories, Inc., to J. Johnston, February 21, 1934, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-36.

480 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, April 21, 1934 and Specifi cations, Built-In Gas Equipment, June 

1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-36; 

Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 245.

481 E. Swope to J. D. Miller, Budget Offi cer, BoP April 26, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 9 and K. Baldwin, Minutes of Planning Committee Meeting, January 

26, 1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

482 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 174.
117

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The offi cer on the catwalk outside of the Dining Room broke the window with his rifl e and 

ordered the convicts inside to line up against the walls, which they did. There was no further 

disturbance among the inmates and neither weapons nor gas were used on the convicts.483

Although Warden Johnston was knocked unconscious by the attack and suff ered cuts to the 

face and head, as well as a bad cut to his ear, he recovered fully and returned to the Dining 

Room within a week. He assumed his usual position in the Dining Room, explaining, “I had 

just got out of bed and was able to put on my clothes and come to the offi ce for the fi rst time. 

I went immediately to the messhall and stood on the spot where I fell and checked the lines 

in, stayed through the meal and checked the lines out as I deemed that to be the best way in 

which to resume my duties.”484

The food at Alcatraz had a well-deserved reputation for quality and variety, and a menu for 

each meal was posted in the Dining Room. Around 1939, the Alcatraz administration purchased a black bulletin board with white letters that spelled out the menus. Warden Johnston 

mentioned the blackboard “back of and above the steam table” in his 1949 book, along with 

two “longer but narrower blackboards”485 left and right of the center board. These bore the 

American and National League baseball scores, as well as the scores of Alcatraz baseball 

teams (fi gures M5, M7, M8, and M9).

Large chalkboards were also posted outside the Dining Room entrance with Warden 

Johnston’s condensed version of the daily news (fi gure P9). Figures M3, M5, M7, M8, M9, 

M10, M11, M18, and M26 show the various places the boards were hung, and provide details 

of typical meals enjoyed by Alcatraz inmates.

One steam table was suffi cient to serve all of the inmates, as at Alcatraz “the number of men 

cared for is small.” Until late 1941 there was no back service bar to hold pans and utensils 

after they were removed from the steam table, so they were set on the fl oor. After a Culinary 

Department inspection in 1941, though, pans and utensils were kept on the steam table.486 At 

some point a shelf was attached to the gate to the Kitchen, and the shelf served as storage for 

steam table pans and utensils (fi gures M8, M9, M10, and M18).

Warden Johnston described the serving setup in his book:

The stainless steel steam table was spotless. In the center were two stacks of stainless steel 

food trays placed there so that they would be warmed to about the right degree of heat 

when the prisoners, coming in for the meal, picked them up and passed along the table 

getting their portions of what was being served.487

483 Summary Regarding Facts, Alcatraz Demonstration, W. T. Hammack, Acting Director, BoP, 

September 25, 1937 and E. J. Miller, Deputy Warden, Attack on Warden J. A. Johnston by 

Burton Phillips #259-Az, September 24, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-57.

484 George Hess, Chief Medical Offi cer, to Surgeon General, September 28, 1937 and J. Johnston to J. V. Bennett, Director, BoP, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison 

Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-57.

485 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 245.

486 Mr. Taubken to Mr. Hammack, BoP, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files 129-96-03, Box 21 and J. Johnston to W. Hammack, BoP, November 12, 1941, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.

487 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 246.

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The Dining Room at Alcatraz did not have a cart to hold dining trays until 1952, when the 

administration purchased a stainless steel cart or “truck” with a capacity of 300 trays488 (fi gures M11 and M24). All tray dispensers or dish trucks were surveyed when Alcatraz closed in 

1963.489 Beginning in autumn 1961, inmates carried their own trays to the rear of the Dining 

Room after each meal.490 They presumably deposited them at the opening to the Dish Room, 

shown in fi gure M13.

As mentioned above, Alcatraz administration retained the mess tables transferred from the 

army almost until closing. By 1946, Warden Johnston was attempting to locate a suitable varnish for the soft poplar tabletops. He claimed that the hot coff ee pitchers and cups quickly 

destroyed the varnish and wanted to locate something stronger, but was told by the Bureau of 

Prisons that the recommended fi nish for soft woods was linseed oil, and the tables should be 

treated with that.491

By 1950 a project to recondition all the tables was underway, but because the penitentiary did 

not have a fl oor sander, the work had to be done by hand, which was “very wasteful of manpower.”492

The suggestion to switch to four-man tables was fi rst made in 1955, but Warden Madigan and 

his staff felt that the larger tables were better from a custodial standpoint.493 In May 1958, 

Alcatraz received 42 surplus eight-man tables from the navy installation at Treasure Island. 

These Formica-topped tables were stored in the “tunnel”—the army’s sally port/guard house 

complex on the road to the dock—but were never put into use.494

The Dining Room was slightly rearranged at this time, by placing two tables “closely spaced 

just inside the entrance.” The tables were moved to keep the lines of inmates moving directly 

toward the steam tables “rather than straying off toward the sides of the room.”495

488 E. Swope to Director, BoP, November 20, 1951 and S. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, 

BoP, to E. Swope, November 26, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 

4; Item Justifi cation–1953 Equipment Budget, May 8, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

489 N. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, to O. Blackwell, March 6, 1963 and attachment, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

490 G. Jones to Director, BoP, November 6, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 9.

491 Johnston to Bennett, Director, BoP, February 1, 1946; Johnston to Robert Dunbar, Construction Supervisor, BoP, March 2, 1946, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2; 

Robert Dunbar to Johnston, March 28, 1946, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 1. 

492 Justifi cation, Floor Sander, and Special Authorization, April 25, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

493 Madigan to S. Sale, Food Service Administrator, June 22, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

494 Memorandum for Record, Lieutenants’ Meeting, June 26, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6 and P. Madigan to Director, BoP, June 2, 1958, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 16. See “Alcatraz Guardhouse Abbreviated Historic 

Structure Report (Final Draft),” prepared by Lerner and Associates, Architects, for the NPS 

(San Francisco, 2003) for more on the tunnel.

495 Memorandum for Record, Lieutenants’ Meeting, June 26, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

In June 1961, Alcatraz administration received approval from the Bureau of Prisons to acquire 

65 four-man tables and 272 chairs for use at the tables. The stacking plastic chairs were purchased from the R. Mars Company in Washington, D.C., and were ordered in coral, green, 

yellow, salmon, blue, and gray.496 The tabletops were plastic and measured 36 ̋ × 36 ̋, and 

the chrome pedestal bases were 30 inches across.497 The tables were completely installed on 

October 9, and they “improved the appearance of the dining room one hundred percent” 

(fi gures M26, M27, M28, M29, and M34).498

Around this time two large framed pictures, probably landscapes, were installed on the north 

wall of the Dining Room, east and west of the opening to the Kitchen (fi gures M33 and M34).

Once the new tables were in place, inmates would continue to sit in the same areas as they 

had before, but would obviously sit with fewer men. As a result, “it should be a little easier for 

inmates to be seated with those men they can get along with quite well.” This was important, 

as fi ghts could and did break out “because of the ill feeling existing between inmates seated at 

the same table.”499 Overall, the new tables and chairs were a huge success with both inmates 

and staff , one of whom wrote on the fi rst night the tables were in use, “A casual observer at 

our supper meal would have thought we had been using four-man tables for ten years.”500

When Alcatraz closed in 1963 the chairs, tables, bases, pedestals, and tops were split between 

Florence Jail and McNeil Island Penitentiary.501

The aluminum cups transferred by the army were wearing out by 1937, and Warden Johnston 

obtained funding for 240 replacement cups. Small aluminum and stainless steel pitchers for 

syrup or ketchup were also ordered for the Dining Room a couple of years after the penitentiary opened.502 In 1940 new stainless steel trays, bowls, and cups were purchased for the 

Dining Room.503

By 1941 the cups were “pretty badly battered” again, and needed to be replaced.504 Aluminum 

saucers were transferred to Alcatraz from Atlanta Penitentiary in 1947, and salt and pepper 

shakers were due for replacement in 1953.505

496 Purchase Order, June 16, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

497 G. Leiser to P. Madigan, June 26, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 3.

498 G. Jones to Director, BoP, October 9, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.

499 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, July 3, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

500 O. Blackwell to Director, BoP, October 12, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 21.

501 N. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, to O. Blackwell, March 6, 1963, and attachment, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

502 Johnston to Director, BoP, May 5, 1937 and Invitation, Bid, and Acceptance, November 14, 

1936, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-23.

503 Federal Offenders 1940, 35.

504 Mr. Taubken to Mr. Hammack, BoP, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

505 G. Davis, Chief Accountant, BoP, to Warden, Atlanta, May 22, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4 and S. T. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Myrl 

Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, September 22, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

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In 1939, Alcatraz purchased 350 stainless steel cereal bowls. The 14-ounce bowls were designed to fi t in one of the compartments on the stainless steel food tray manufactured by 

Federal Prison Industries. By 1950, more bowls were needed, and were manufactured for 

Alcatraz by Federal Prison Industries in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania.506 Four hundred fi fty-six of 

the six-compartment trays were reported as excess in April 1956.507

New pie tins, salt and pepper shakers, and cream dispensers were purchased for use with the 

new four-man tables in late autumn 1961.508

Spoons and forks were set out on the Dining Room tables, with knives used “only on special 

meals where the main item necessitates the use of one.”509 A former inmate recalled having to 

ask for a knife before meals: 

[I]f you had a meal which required a knife to cut the meat, I would look and if there was 

no knife there, I wouldn’t sit down. I’d call the Guard, “hey, look.” . . . The spoon and the 

fork made no diff erence. All they were interested in was the knife.510

 Plastic dishes and trays were introduced to the Dining Room on January 8, 1962. Inmates’ 

reactions were “neutral,” but initial breakage created a serious problem for the Culinary 

Department.511 The fi rst shipment of Melamine dinnerware came from Nemir Industries. It 

included 32-dozen marbleized trays, 32-dozen 11-inch compartment plates, 64-dozen sixinch bread and butter plates, 32-dozen seven-ounce conical coff ee cups, and 32-dozen 16-

ounce chowder bowls. The dinnerware came in a variety of colors—sea-foam green, green, 

yellow, and “fl ame.”512

The new dishes were used in the Special Treatment Unit in D-block for a trial period in 

October 1961. Over a 10-day period serving only 11 men, at least 11 plates were broken. Some 

of the plates were broken intentionally by inmates and some were broken accidentally by 

dishwashers, even though the dishwashers were “a good crew.”513 The Culinary Department 

soon returned to using paper plates in the Special Treatment Unit.514

After a 20-day trial period, 46 trays, 212 plates, one saucer, 36 bowls, and 43 of the new 

plastic cups were broken. The Warden and Culinary Department staff blamed the breakage 

506 E. Swope to Director, BoP, March 31, 1950 and G. Davis, Chief Accountant, BoP, to Warden, 

April 11, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 4.

507 Report of excess Personal Property, April 24, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files.

508 G. Jones to Director, BoP, November 6, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 9.

509 S. Sale, Food Service Administrator, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, March 24, 

1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

510 Robert Guilford Oral History.

511 [Unknown] to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, February 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 19.

512 Purchase Order, June 27, 1961, attached to Gene Jones to Director, BoP, August 8, 1962, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

513 G. Jones to Director, BoP, November 6, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 9.

514 G. Jones to O. Blackwell, October 31, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 9.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

on “faulty plastic,” and had to acquire additional plates to serve meals.515 Furthermore, the 

dishwasher was warping the plastic trays so that they could not be stacked.516 The Culinary 

Department was under the impression that the Nemir-brand dinnerware was defective, and 

ordered replacements from the GSA. The GSA dinnerware was “a uniform sand color,” and 

held up much better than the other brand.517

Eventually the Culinary Department, in consultation with the Bureau of Prison’s Administrator 

of Food Services, determined to keep the plastic dishes, but to discontinue purchasing from 

Nemir Industries and to buy Watertown- or Dohrmann-brand dishes instead. In addition, they 

were to acquire “bin-type” dispensers for the dishes, rather than stacking them on tables in 

front of the serving line, as was the current practice.518 By July 1962, plastic dinnerware breakage 

was “almost non-existent,” as all of the Nemir dinnerware was gone.519

Milk arrived at the dock at Alcatraz each morning at 8 a.m., delivered in three- and fi ve-gallon 

cans. Once on the island it was poured from one can into another to make sure it contained no 

contraband. A spare can was sent to the dock each morning for this procedure, but although 

it was clean, it was not completely sterilized. This process, in addition to the fact that milk on 

hand was used fi rst so all the milk served was 24 hours old, led to some milk spoilage. 520

Through the 1950s, milk was served in the Dining Room with ladles, which was somewhat 

ineffi cient.521 By 1958, the Administrator of Food Services for the Bureau of Prisons recommended that two milk dispensers be acquired for the Dining Room so the ladling could 

be discontinued.522 In late 1961 the Steward and the Warden began discussing serving milk 

in half-pint paper containers and by October the switch was approved by the Bureau of 

Prisons.523 The milk was stored in the “Dairy Box” in the Kitchen basement until just before it 

was served, as the best refrigeration was available in the basement.524

There was no water cooler in the Dining Room, but cold water was served in a “stock pot 

fi lled with ice.” Sometimes cups were reused without washing, an unsanitary practice cited by 

the Chief Steward of the Bureau of Prisons in 1943.525

515 O. Blackwell to Director, BoP, February 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 16.

516 G. Jones to O. Blackwell, February 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.

517 G. Jones to Director, BoP, April 9, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.

518 W. Rauch, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, 

May 15, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

519 G. Jones to Director, BoP, July 6, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 

9.

520 G. Jones to Director, BoP, October 9, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.

521 Mr. Sale to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

522 G. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, April 

20, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

523 W. Rauch, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, to O. Blackwell, October 16, 1961, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.

524 G. Jones to O. Blackwell, October 31, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 9.

525 G. Foss, Chief Steward, BoP, Memorandum for the Files, June 10, 1943, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 11.

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Coff ee urns were originally located in the Kitchen, but were moved to the Dining Room fl oor 

probably after the 1952–53 Kitchen renovations.526 The 1956 Regulations for Inmates allowed 

inmates to “go to the coff ee urn on your side of the dining room only when no other inmate 

is there.” The Regulations cautioned inmates not to go to the urn “for the purpose of visiting 

with others.”527

By October 1961 coff ee was served “at the steam table,” and second cups were served by a 

waiter in the Dining Room.528 Photographs taken before the new dining tables were installed 

at that time show coff ee urns on wheeled metal carts, probably located near the steam tables 

(fi gure M23). Figures M32, M33, and M34 show coff ee urns placed on the new pedestal 

tables.

When the Bureau of Prisons took over from the army in 1934, the existing light fi xtures in the 

Dining Room were replaced with “incandescent refl ector type light fi xtures” attached directly 

to the ceiling (fi gures M10, M11, M12, M17, M30, and M32).529 In 1958, fi ve emergency lights 

were installed in the Dining Room, placed to provide emergency lighting for both the Dining 

Room and the Kitchen.530

Acoustical tile was installed in the Dining Room in spring 1959, and a few months later “broken Masonite used over the sound proofi ng on the ends of the dining room” was replaced. 

Noise suppression was an important aspect of control in a large space like the Dining Room, 

and the Warden thought the repairs would make “a noticeable diff erence” that would “surprise all of us.”531

Around this time, glass brick was installed in the window openings on the west side of the 

Dining Room, Kitchen, and second-fl oor Hospital. By the following spring, some of the inmates in the Culinary Department punched through the acoustical board at the ends of the 

Dining Room, causing the board to look “shabby” and the convicts to lose their jobs.532 (See 

fi gure M19 for the glass brick windows.)

The main Dining Room fl oor was made of cement, which was waxed to a high polish, as in 

the Cell House.The fl oor around the steam table was tiled in 1941, in preparation for a Prison 

Convention meeting to be held in San Francisco.533 Linoleum was laid in the Dining Room in 

526 Mr. Sale to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

527 Paul Madigan, Institution Rules and Regulations, 11.

528 G. Jones to Director, BoP, October 9, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.

529 W. Overton, Engineer, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

530 Madigan to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, April 2, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz, Box 6.

531 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, May 1, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 16 and V. Craig to G. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, October 1, 1959, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9. Note that funding for acoustical 

ceilings in the Administrative Offi ces, Dining Room, and Auditorium was requested as part 

of a 1945 postwar construction program. See Johnston to Director, BoP, January 9, 1945, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

532 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, May 3, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16. 

533 Mr. Taubken to Mr. Hammack, BoP, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

late 1948. By late 1959 the linoleum had been patched and painted, which was “a big improvement.”534

The area around the steam tables showed “considerable wear” by 1961 and Alcatraz administration hoped to tile it over.535 In June 1962, funding was received for new fl ooring for the 

Dining Room, and in August more than $1,200 worth of 9 ̋ × 9 ̋ red marbled asphalt tile was 

delivered to the island.536

As noted above, Warden Johnston was interested in the psychology of color, and he proudly 

described the color scheme in the Dining Room in his 1949 book: 

[T]he colors—emerald green at the fl oor base, a lighter reseda green half way to the pillars and side walls, and ivory ceiling—entirely diff erent from the cell blocks reminded 

[visitors] of what I had said about the psychology of using contrasting colors in diff erent 

departments of the prison to relieve the eyes and minimize the monotony of constantly 

seeing cold gray steel.537

A culinary inspector visiting the Dining Room in 1941, however, viewed the treatment differently, remarking on the “dado of bilious green . . . painted on the wall to a height of about 

four feet.” He preferred a tile dado for the walls and pillars, but they remained painted various 

shades of green and white throughout the penitentiary period (fi gures M21, M22, M32, and 

M33).538

Figure M10, dated August 12, 1954, shows the north Dining Room wall without a dado, although the painted treatment remains on the pillars. Figure M16, dated 1956, shows a darkpainted dado on the west and north walls. A dado in some shade of green seems to have been 

used until the penitentiary closed in 1963. The Dining Room was painted in 1952, and again in 

1959, although that job progressed slowly and does not appear to have been completed until 

May 1961.539 When fi nally fi nished, the area above the dado was painted a fl at white in place of 

the light yellow used previously (fi gure M34).540

534 Louis Berman, Assistant Solicitor, Department of Labor, to P. G. Smith, Chief, Purchasing Unit, 

BoP, July 8, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Box 5 and V. Craig, Food Administrator, Alcatraz, to G. 

Leiser, BoP, December 2, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9. See 

also L. Mills, Administrative Manager, to Director, BoP, July 19, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 15.

535 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, March 6, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 16.

536 O. Blackwell to Director, BoP, June 1, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16 and Receiving Report, August 29, 1962, GGNRA Park Archives collections, Jack W. 

Fleming Alcatraz Collection.

537 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 245. “Reseda green” is a grayish-green.

538 Mr. Taubken to Mr. Hammack, BoP, September 30, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21. 

539 Mr. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, 

February 13, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17; V. Craig, Food 

Administrator, Alcatraz, to G. Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, October 31, 1959; 

G. Jones, Food Administrator, Alcatraz, to Administrator of Food Services, BoP, June 5, 1961, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

540 G. Jones to Director, BoP, May 5, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.

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124

Holidays and other special events were commemorated with special meals in the Dining 

Room, and occasionally with suitable decorations. Christmas of 1948 was celebrated with unusual style in the Alcatraz Dining Room. The Protestant chaplain reported: 

The dining hall was decorated with red and green streamers hung upon the overhead 

beams. A large Christmas tree decorated with lights and upon a revolving stand was 

placed in the dining hall. Two imitation candles about fi ve feet high were placed one on 

each side of the door to the dining hall.541

White sheets were borrowed from the laundry and used as table cloths on the mess tables 

(fi gure M6), and when one of the Correctional Offi cers off ered to photograph the Christmas 

tree, 10 of the inmates working in the culinary unit asked to pose with it (fi gure M7).542

Christmas trees continued to be set up in the Dining Room during the holiday season, although in 1959 one of the convicts grabbed the tree, tore it down, “and then dragged it around 

the dining room until he was overpowered by three offi cers who took him off to the isolation 

unit.”543

In 1961, Culinary Department staff made laurel Christmas wreaths to hang in the Dining 

Room, and by early December fruit cake had been made in the Bakery and was being stored 

in the basement until Christmas.544

One convict wrote to his sister, “I doubt if you will believe this but we have a half a chicken 

Southern fried, every other Sunday and many other nice things.” He went on to describe the 

table settings and menu for a Memorial Day dinner: 

I wish you could have seen our dining room tables this noon. Snow white table cloths and big 

boquets [sic] of fresh geraniums on each table. It was a huge T-bone steak with mashed potatoes, gravy, kernel corn, bread rolls and butter, a salad consisting of lettuce leaf, half a pear in 

Jello, some olives and sweet pickles with chocolate cake for dessert so you can see that we did 

alright out here.545

Another Memorial Day meal featured large T-bone steaks, french fries, and strawberry shortcake. With cut fl owers on all the tables, the Dining Room “looked very nice,” and the Culinary 

Department received “quite a few compliments.”546

The 1962 Fourth of July meal consisted of T-bone steak, french fries, mushroom gravy, and “a 

variety of vegetables in salads and side dishes.” Dinner music was provided by the inmate or541 Charles Paine, Protestant Chaplain, “Report of Christmas Activities,” December 1948, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

542 E. Swope to Director, BoP, February 4, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 7.

543 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, January 4, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 16.

544 G. Jones to Director, BoP, December 7, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 9.

545 Alvin Karparauz to Mrs. Emily Janbe, May 30, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz, Alcatraz Admin. Files 129-96-03, Box 16.

546 G. Jones to Director, BoP, June 5, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.
125

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

chestra.547 Figure M14 shows the orchestra set up in the Dining Room around 1955. In spring 

1962 the Cell House radio system was tied into the Dining Room, and Warden Blackwell’s 

staff began broadcasting “ball games, music and other items of interest” during meals.548

Basement

Overview, Disciplinary Barracks Period

The basement of the Main Prison Building originally housed a Bakery, a Vegetable Room, a 

Print Shop, a Barber Shop, two Clothing Rooms, a Plumbing Shop, a hallway, various storerooms, and the Shower Room. The Shower Room and a clothing storage space were located 

underneath the Cell House, and the other spaces were under the Kitchen and Mess Hall. The 

remainder of the basement consisted of storage rooms and eight isolation, or “dungeon,” cells 

(fi gure BP5).

A Forbes steam sterilizer for drinking water and a 500-gallon hot water heater were also installed in the basement. The ventilation in the basement was “entirely natural,” though not 

“entirely satisfactory.” When the building opened in 1912, the army’s inspecting surgeon felt 

that the small windows located on one side of the large basement rooms did not provide suffi cient air, especially in rooms where food was stored and prepared.549

The refrigerating plant was housed in an extension at the north end of the wing and was illuminated by 12 electric lights. In October 1931 a cooling tower with an ammonia condenser 

was installed in the plant, at a cost of $683.68 (fi gure BP5).550 The army transferred two builtin refrigerators to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934, in addition to a two-ton capacity ice plant 

with four motors. 551

Barber Shop, Disciplinary Barracks Period

During the Disciplinary Period, two enlisted overseers were in charge of the Shower Room, 

the Clothing Issue Room, and the Barber Shop. The Barber Shop operated from 7:30 a.m. 

until 5:00 p.m. or later Monday through Saturday, with various breaks during the day. 

The Barber Shop was located on the west side of the Basement, adjacent to the two Clothing 

Rooms (fi gure BP5). Prisoners came to the shop daily to shave, and no razors were permitted 

outside the shop. Towels were issued to the Barber Shop from the Clothing Room as necessary, and razors, shears, and clippers were stored in a locked box. This box was turned over to 

the Gate Keeper at night. An inventory of shop equipment was taken monthly.

The Barber Shop windows opened from the top only, and no articles were to be passed 

through them. Loitering in the Barber Shop and visiting away from the shop by members of 

547 G. Jones to Director, BoP, August 8, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.

548 O. Blackwell to Director, BoP, June 1, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin., 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

549 Monthly Sanitary Report and endorsements, March 1912, NARA, RG 94, Medical History, 

Alcatraz Island, vol. 3, November 30, 1898–July 4, 1913.

550 Building Book, Alcatraz, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

551 Transfer to Department of Justice, September 10, 1934, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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126

the shop detail were prohibited. A copy of the Barber Detail Instructions was posted in 

the shop.552

Figure Bar1 shows prisoners shaving and receiving haircuts in the Barber Shop. Three chairs 

are full (note part of the third chair barely visible in the bottom left corner) and rectangular 

framed shaving mirrors hang at eye-level throughout the room. Two sets of cubby holes run 

around the room, each holding a shaving mug and brush. The walls are painted a dark color 

below the shelving, and a light color above. A darker painted splash guard runs around the 

base of the wall, and the fl oor is polished concrete. Each prisoner has a towel, distributed by 

the Clothing Room, and men working on the Barber Shop detail are distinguished by their 

all-white fatigues. The white overcoat was stored in the Barber Shop, rather than removed to 

the prisoner’s cell.553

Shower Room/Bath Room, Disciplinary Barracks Period

When the new prison building opened in 1912, the Basement bathing facilities were considered to be “more than ample,” and were “probably more up to date than any like institution.”554 An inspecting surgeon in the Army Medical Corps, however, recommended that 

those men working in the Bakery, Kitchen, Laundry, Engine Room, and Plumbing Shop be 

granted more than the usual single opportunity to bathe each week.

The Shower Room, connected by a stairway to the Cell House, included 48 shower baths, 

16 lavatories (sinks), eight water closets, two fi ve-foot-long urinals, and a 1,500-gallon steamheated hot-water heater.555

By 1930, four general prisoners worked on this detail, with the Shower Room, or “Bath 

Room” as it was termed in military regulations, open from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday through 

Friday and shorter hours on Saturday. Prisoners were assigned a specifi c time to shower, and 

were required to shower at least three times weekly. 

Prisoners working the Bath Room detail were responsible for policing the room and dealing 

with laundry coming in and out of the Clothing Room. Dirty clothing was exchanged in the 

Bath Room “article for article,” and no extra clothing was allowed. While in the Bath Room, 

prisoners could use nail fi les and nail clippers, which were chained down.

Clothing or other unauthorized articles were not to be carried from the Bath Room to cells, 

nor were articles to be passed out the windows or stored in the Bath Room. Overseers were 

cautioned to prevent unauthorized issue of clothing, visiting by members of the detail, loitering by general prisoners, and “immoral practices.”556

552 Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, Inside Barber 

Detail Instructions, October 14, 1930, in GGNRA Park Archives collections.

553 Ibid.

554 Monthly Sanitary Report and endorsements, March 1912, NARA, RG 94, Medical History, 

Alcatraz Island, vol. 3, November 30, 1898–July 4, 1913.

555 Ibid.

556 Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, Bath Room 

Detail Instructions, October 14, 1930, in GGNRA Park Archives collections.
127

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Clothing Room, Disciplinary Barracks Period

Two adjoining Clothing Rooms were located on the east side of the basement wing. Prisoners’ 

clothing was sent to the Clothing Room for cleaning and repair, although prisoners were not 

allowed to bring clothing into or out of the Main Prison Building. Three prisoners were detailed to work in the Clothing Room, issuing regulation clothing and hand towels to general 

prisoners Monday through Saturday. One of the detail was “on pass,” meaning he could run 

errands outside of the Main Prison Building from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. without a special 

written pass.

New prisoners were sent to the Clothing Room immediately after their arrival on Alcatraz, 

and from there they were searched, bathed, equipped, and given a haircut.557 The Clothing 

Room overseer was responsible for the search, and confi scated and stored personal property 

other than valuables in a separate locked storeroom. The Executive Offi cer stored any valuables. Prisoners were issued receipts for all personal property.558

The Clothing Room overseer was also responsible for cleaning and repairing civilian clothing 

in anticipation of prisoner release. On the day of release, prisoners turned in all government 

property in the Clothing Room and personal property was returned to them. Prisoners were 

provided with a complete suit of civilian clothing, including shoes, cuff links, and overcoat.559

Print Shop, Disciplinary Barracks Period

The Print Shop was located on the west side of the basement, between the Bakery and the 

Barber Shop. Six prisoners were assigned to this detail, working with no overseer. They 

worked Monday through Friday and Saturday mornings. The Print Shop was opened and 

closed by the Plumbing Shop overseer, who searched the shop before closing it each day at 

4:30 p.m.

The Print Shop was under the authority of the Adjutant Offi cer, who ordered all the work carried out there. Six hand towels were allowed to be kept in the shop, but personal belongings 

or toilet articles were forbidden.560

By 1930 Capt. John Cook supervised the shop, which supplied printing to the Ninth Corps 

Area “at a fraction of its ordinary cost.”561 When the army left the island, fi ve printing presses, 

a paper cutter, a binding machine, a book-binding press, and most of the Print Shop equipment and fi ttings were transferred to the Bureau of Prisons.562

557 Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, Clothing Room 

Detail Instructions, October 13, 1930, in GGNRA Park Archives collections. 

558 Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, Instructions for 

New Arrivals, November 5, 1930, in GGNRA Park Archives collections.

559 Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, Instructions for 

Released Prisoners, October 28, 1930, in GGNRA Park Archives collections.

560 Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, Print Shop Detail 

Instructions, September 15, 1930, in GGNRA Park Archives collections.

561 Winthrop Martin, “A Common-Sense Prison,” in The Review of Reviews, July 1930, GGNRA 

Park Archives collections.

562 Transfer to Department of Justice, September 10, 1934, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

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128

Plumbing Shop, Disciplinary Barracks Period

The Plumbing Shop was a small room on the east side of the basement. The inside plumbing 

detail consisted of four general prisoners who were to perform “necessary plumbing work in 

Building 68.” A military overseer locked and unlocked the shop himself, searching the shop 

before he closed it. This overseer was responsible for the Print Shop as well.

Plumbing tools were not to be used by prisoners not assigned to the plumbing detail. 

Prisoners on this detail were assigned four hand towels to be collected at the Clothing Room 

and kept in the shop. The plumbing detail used the toilet in the Shower Room during working 

hours, and was allowed two smoking periods daily.563

When the army left Alcatraz in 1934, a hand-powered forming machine, a 36-inch squaring 

shear, a bar folder, and a bench punch were transferred to the Bureau of Prisons.564

Bakery, Disciplinary Barracks Period

The Bakery was located in the northwest corner of the basement, adjacent to a storeroom. 

The room was steam heated and lit with seven electric lights. As discussed in the Kitchen section above, the army used a Werner and Pfl eiderer-brand 500-pound-capacity bake oven and 

a 500-pound-capacity dough mixer. In June 1930 the wood-fueled oven was updated with the 

installation of two turbine oil burners.565 A storeroom was located across the hall from the 

Bakery when the Main Prison Building opened in 1912.566

Four prisoners worked in the Bakery, rising at 3:00 a.m. and working until the day’s work was 

completed. Members of the detail bathed and shaved daily, and were to keep their hands and 

fi ngernails clean. They were issued one hand towel each from the Clothing Room. The Bakery 

uniform consisted of white shirts and white trousers, and Bakery workers enjoyed a minimum 

of three smoking breaks each day.567

Overview, Federal Penitentiary Period

The Bureau of Prisons upgraded security in the basement when they took over the prison in 

1934. The Bureau installed “solid steel doors on the inside and grated tool-proof steel doors 

on the outside entrance to the kitchen basement requiring two separate individuals with two 

separate keys, one from the inside and one from the outside, in order to get anything in or out 

of the basement.” The Bureau also built “a steel cage sally port within the inner door as an additional protective measure.”568

563 Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, Bath Room 

Detail Instructions, October 14, 1930, in GGNRA Park Archives collections.

564 Transfer to Department of Justice, September 10, 1934, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

565 Building Book, Alcatraz, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2; Specifi cations . . . Removing Old 

Bake Oven at U.S. Penitentiary Alcatraz, California, April 17, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

566 Monthly Sanitary Report and endorsements, March 1912, NARA, RG 94, Medical History, 

Alcatraz Island, vol. 3, November 30, 1898–July 4, 1913.

567 Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, Bake Shop Detail 

Instructions, October 16, 1930, in GGNRA Park Archives collections.

568 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, January 15, 1936, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-56.
129

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Throughout the federal penitentiary period, the confi guration and use of space in the basement remained fl uid. No fl oor plans or drawings have been located for this period. Basement 

space was used primarily for food preparation and storage, for inmate clothing distribution 

and storage, and for the Shower Room. 

It is clear that these multiple uses, and the fact that convicts were continually moving about 

in most of the basement rooms, created security and custodial control problems. In 1948, 

Warden Swope noted that “[a] number of assaults have occurred in the basement of the 

kitchen.” He proposed a reconfi guration of the Kitchen “in order to eliminate as much as possible the use of the basement.” Swope pointed out that the basement was used “as a loafi ng 

place for inmates assigned to the culinary unit,” and he wanted any inmates allowed in the 

basement to be accompanied by an offi cer.569

(See Kitchen section, above, for details about the use of the basement for food preparation and 

storage throughout the federal penitentiary period.)

Barber Shop, Federal Penitentiary Period

Warden Johnston discussed the Barber Shop in a 1935 letter to the Bureau of Prisons, describing it as “in the basement opposite the bath house,” and pointing out that it was “a place 

where we try to avoid any congregating or gathering of men except under supervision.”570

One inmate barber served the needs of the whole prison, with each convict having “a regular 

hair cutting time and . . . a particular hour and a particular day for going to the shop.”571 The 

barber could give about 14 haircuts each day, which was usually suffi cient, except for those 

times when a military transport in port “gives us a rush job at the laundry,” and haircutting 

appointments were shifted to accommodate the additional work for the prison industry. On 

occasions when the regular schedule was disturbed, an extra barber was assigned to accommodate the additional haircuts before and after the big job.

“In the early years of the federal prison”, the correctional offi cer in charge of the Barber Shop 

was also in charge of the Clothing Room and Shower Room. Warden Johnston preferred to 

keep “one barber busy [rather] than have two men there idle part of the time,” so the guard 

had only one barber to supervise.572

At the time the federal penitentiary opened, the barber was supplied with hand clippers. A 

year or so later, Warden Johnston argued “we are not in need of stringing out jobs by hand 

work when it can be done more effi ciently by approved methods,” and in October 1935 he was 

authorized to spend $25 for a set of electric clippers for the Barber Shop.573 By spring 1938, 

569 E. Swope to Director, BoP, July 12, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 1.

570 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, October 24, 1935, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-3.

571 Ibid.

572 Ibid.

573 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, October 24, 1935, and W. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, to 

Warden, Alcatraz, November 2 1935, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison 

Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-3.

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130

those clippers were “out of commission about half of the time” and Johnston was authorized 

$51 to acquire a Moore 30-G Pivoted Peerless clipper.574

In 1946 Johnston advertised for another heavy-duty electric hair clipper, and in July 1948 

began using three pairs of Andis-brand “vibrator”-type clippers. By 1950 the Andis clippers 

were “just about worn out,” although they were not fully depreciated in value. Alcatraz administration put in a request for funding for three heavy-duty Oster-brand Model 111 clippers, 

which could withstand the “tremendous amount of use” necessary in an institutional barber 

shop.575 By 1956 two of the pairs of clippers in use were “badly in need of repairs,” and the 

quality of barber combs was not satisfactory.576

During the federal penitentiary era, Alcatraz inmates shaved daily with safety razors in their 

cells. The suggestion that Alcatraz inmates switch from safety razors to electric razors was put 

forth in summer 1941. At that time, Warden Johnston wrote, “I do not know whether the time 

has arrived when we can use electric shavers.” He went on to state the undoubted fact that removing razor blades from the inmates would be safer, but that some inmates could be expected to break the new electric shavers, which would then be diffi cult to service.577 Inmates continued to use safety razors, and the 1956 Regulations include directions for storing one shaving 

cup, two razor blades, one safety razor, one cake of shaving soap, and one shaving brush.578

In December 1949, the Barber Shop was relocated from the basement to the north end of Ablock. The great advantage to this change from the custodial perspective was that inmates no 

longer had to go to the basement for haircuts. When the Barber Shop was in the basement, 

the stair entrance had to be locked and unlocked for prisoners to pass back and forth, and 

custodial staff had to “shake down” inmates coming and going from the shop. Inmates milling 

around in the basement, where “they could connive for clothes,” posed a custodial problem. 

With the shop relocated to A-block, Alcatraz administration had “better security as well as 

better control of inmates.”579

In anticipation of the move, selected shaving supplies from the basement Barber Shop such 

as safety razor blades, witch hazel lotion, polished steel shaving mirrors, straight razors, razor 

blade sharpeners, and styptic powder were declared surplus.580

Figures Bar2, Bar3, and Bar4 show the Barber Shop in the mid-1950s. Two of the barber 

chairs were moved from the basement to A-block, and painted wooden shelving, mirrors, 

and a sink were installed on the south wall. The original iron spiral staircase remained in the 

574 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, April 7, 1938, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 10. 

575 Invitation, Bid, and Acceptance, March 28, 1946, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 10 and Item Justifi cation–1951 Equipment Budget, May 5, 1950, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2. 

576 Minutes of Planning Committee, May 29, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 6.

577 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, July 16, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 10. 

578 Paul Madigan, Institution Rules and Regulations, 8–9.

579 N. Stucker to BoP, Division of Field Operations, January 4, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

580 Surplus Property Declaration, November 8, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 10. 
131

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

space. The walls were painted in a medium tone, the concrete fl oor was waxed, and metal 

lighting fi xtures like those in the Dining Room were located near the barber chairs. Figure 

Bar2, dated 1954, shows barber supplies such as white towels, tin cups, and a shaving mirror 

on the shelves, although fi gures Bar3 and Bar4 show few barber supplies.

A “fume type cabinet sterilizer using formaldehyde” was used in the Barber Shop at this time, 

although the Medical Director for the Bureau of Prisons pointed out that this type of cabinet 

kept instruments sterilized, rather than actually sterilizing them. This type of fume cabinet 

was no longer in general use, and he recommended a hot oil method of sterilization used with 

an electric dental sterilizer.581

One “very wet” afternoon in late 1961, 50 inmates were allowed to use the Barber Shop to play 

bridge, chess, and dominoes. These activities were “thoroughly supervised,” and the opportunity to have a recreational period during inclement weather was “greatly appreciated by the 

inmates.”582

Band Room, Federal Penitentiary Period

As early as November 1936 an inmate orchestra was “beginning to round into shape with 

twelve regular members and two alternates.” A total of 25 prisoners was playing regularly, 

but it is not clear where they practiced.583 In spring 1947, the acting warden complained of 

inmates being granted “special privileges such as spending their full time fooling around practicing musical instruments in the basement.”584

Within months of the Barber Shop relocating to the ground fl oor of the Cell House, the 

former Barber Shop space was in use as a Band Rehearsal Room. In June 1950 a Wilcox-Gay 

“Recordette” was acquired “for use by the inmates in the band rehearsal room to make instrumental and vocal recordings.” The machine was very popular with the convicts, but the 

microphone that came with the recorder was not a good one, and six months later the 

Warden requested and received funding for a new one.585

The “Recordette” made recordings directly onto the recording disc. This was “unsatisfactory 

for the reason [that] when errors are made, there is no way of correcting them; the record 

must be destroyed.” Inmates could buy their own discs and, with approval, send them to relatives. In summer 1951, the Alcatraz administration acquired a new Sonograph Wire Recording 

machine, which was preferable because it recorded the music on wire rolls before it was transcribed to the recording disc.586

581 Stanley Krumbiegel, Medical Director, BoP, to Mr. Miller, March 21, 1951, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 10.

582 [Custodial] to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, January 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 19.

583 Wayne Hunter, Chaplain, to J. Johnston, November 1, 1936, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937.

584 C. J. Shuttleworth, Warden, [Federal Correctional Institution Milan] to Director, May 12, 

1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

585 E. Swope to Director, BoP, January 22, 1951, and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

586 Swope to Director, BoP, August 16, 1951, and J. Miller, Fiscal Offi cer, BoP, to E. Swope, September 17, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

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132

Interest in musical instruments continued, and the administration at Alcatraz carried on soliciting funds for repair of prison-owned instruments and acquisition of additional music so that 

more inmates could participate in the orchestra or band. Minutes of one meeting pointed out, 

“It is noted that the men who are permitted to practice more or less regularly are seldom involved in disciplinary problems.” In early 1955 instrument practice in the recreation yard was 

under consideration “on an earned privilege basis.”587

Figures BR1, BR2, and BR3 show inmates practicing in the Basement Band Room around 

1950. The Barber Shop shelving has been removed, but the dark and light contrasting paint 

scheme remains. Figure BR3 shows a set of wooden storage closets on the south wall near the 

doorway. The musicians use folding wooden chairs equipped with cushions, and one straightback wooden chair. Painted wooden music stands hold sheet music. Figure BR1 shows a tuba 

propped upright on either its own wooden stand or a combination of two music stands.

During the project to reinforce Cell House supporting beams in October 1955, a temporary 

Shower Room was set up in the Band Room. At fi rst, drainage of the shower water presented 

a problem, but it was worked out by mid-November.588 It is possible the Band Room was 

painted at the completion of the project in November, along with the Shower Room and 

Clothing Issue Room.589 (See below for more on the supporting beam project.)

By 1962 inmates were gathering regularly in the Band Room, “a basement room adjacent to 

the clothing exchange area,” to practice and play “band-type music.” Occasionally, the group 

played during a meal (fi gures M14, M30, and M34).590

At the time of the institution’s closing, Alcatraz had on hand three accordions, two banjos, a 

clarinet, a bassoon, a French horn, several coronet horns, a drum and cymbal, a piccolo, three 

saxophones, and a trombone.591

Lower Sally Port, Federal Penitentiary Period

The basement hallway dividing the Shower Room from the rest of the north basement area 

was not known offi cially as the Lower Sally Port, but served the purpose as a secure entrance 

to the basement of the Cell House. During the Disciplinary Barracks era this entrance was 

known as the “Freight Gate.” One stairway led directly from the Dining Room to the lower 

hallway, and an exterior stairway led from outside the west wall to a door into the basement 

hall (fi gure BP5). 

When the Bureau of Prisons took over Alcatraz in 1934 the agency installed a new “cut off 

grating and door inclosing [sic] the stair hall leading from the mess hall to the basement.” 

The stairwell leading directly from the Cell House to the Shower Room was “protected by a 

587 Minutes of Planning Meeting, February 21, 1955 and Minutes of Budget Planning Committee, April 16, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

588 Madigan to Director, BoP, September 23, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 17 and Madigan to Director, BoP, November 18, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Box 1.

589 Madigan to Director, BoP, October 10, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 17.

590 C. Eckenrode, Superintendent, Vocational Education and Training, BoP, to H. Moeller, Assistant Director, BoP, June 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

591 “Welfare,” [Surplus property, 1963], NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 12-96-03, Box 7.
133

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

soft steel grating” that the Bureau of Prisons did not upgrade, as the stairway led only to the 

Shower Room.592

Many prisoners fi rst entered Alcatraz through the Lower Sally Port. A former convict described his arrival:

We were lead around to a side of the building, where there was a large solid-steel door. In 

the center of the door was an opening about 4 ̋ × 8  ̋. It was covered by a sliding section 

of iron . . . . Slowly the large gate opened. We were temporarily blinded by the very bright 

fl oodlights from within. Our fi rst point of entrance was simply a large cell directly inside 

the door.593

Once inside, the new inmates were directed to the benches in the hallway by a correctional 

offi cer:

One of the men opened another door and said, “You cons, walk over to the benches 

along the wall. Do not be seated until we have removed your restraints.” . . . The man with 

a canvas bag stepped forward and started removing the chains and cuff s. In a matter of 

minutes all of our chains had been removed. . . . One by one we sat down on the hard 

wooden bench.594

Figures LSP1, LSP2, and LSP3 show the military-era mess benches in use in the Lower Sally 

Port and few other furnishings visible in the room. This series of photographs, taken in 1962, 

documents a group of convicts leaving Alcatraz. Figure LSP1 shows a wall-mounted telephone and framed list of extensions on the south wall. A green fi re hose cabinet appears in 

fi gure LSP2. The walls are painted a medium taupe or tan on the bottom and light tan on top. 

Woodwork is painted a dark green, as are the stair railings visible in the foreground of fi gure 

LSP2. Floors are fi nished in waxed concrete, as in the rest of the Cell House.

Shower Room, Federal Penitentiary Period

An early 1936 inspection by the U.S. Public Health Service found the shower baths at Alcatraz 

“clean and generally in excellent condition.” The fl oors in the Shower Room were regularly 

disinfected, and prisoners were required to use a disinfecting foot bath before entering the 

shower. These measures successfully prevented athlete’s foot among the inmates.595

In summer 1937, funds were authorized for a new hot-water tank in the Shower Room, as the 

tank in place was in “bad condition” and overdue for replacement.596 The shower stalls built 

down the center of the Shower Room were originally separated by “marble slab[s],” which 

were painted black sometime before November 1953. The plain marble was not easy to clean, 

592 Robert C. Bunge, Consulting Engineer, Prison Equipment Research Bureau, to Sanford Bates, 

Director, BoP, November 17, 1933, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-0.

593 Nathan Glenn Williams, From Alcatraz to the White House, 197. 

594 Williams, From Alcatraz to the White House, 197–98.

595 Report on Water Supplies and General Sanitation, U.S. Penitentiary, Alcatraz, California, April 

1936, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-51.

596 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, July 3, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters,) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-2.

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134

but the painted surface “was even more diffi cult to keep free of mineral deposits from the water, oils of the human body, and the residues of soap.”597

Figure S1 shows a row of the painted marble partitions connected by a metal pipe. Note that 

the fl oor of the shower stalls is a continuation of the concrete fl ooring used throughout the 

room and that there is no defi ned shower pan. Army-built mess benches like those used in the 

Dining Room are placed in front of the showers. 

The Clothing Issue Room was relocated to the west end of the Shower Room in December 

1949. A gated chain-link fence blocked off a section of the room, with a distribution window 

facing the showers (fi gure CR1). Moving prisoners out of the Shower Room, across the lower 

hallway, and into the original Clothing Issue Room was “diffi cult,” and the change was made 

to improve security in the basement.598

In May 1954, under the direction of the Bureau of Prisons, Alcatraz staff removed samples of 

“reinforced concrete from around the main steel beams in the shower room under the cell 

house.” The beams supporting the Cell House were so deteriorated that the situation caused 

“gravest alarm,” especially as any settling of the building would inactivate the Cell House locking system.599

Although the situation was dangerous, work on the supporting beams did not begin until the 

following year. Clearly, the showers had to be temporarily relocated so that reconstruction 

work could take place. At fi rst it was suggested that the showers be moved to two cells in Ablock, but as they were not big enough it was suggested that the showers be reinstalled in the 

Clothing Issue Room.600

A temporary Shower Room was fi nally installed in the Band Room in late September 1955.601

Initially, there was some trouble with shower water drainage, but the problem was soon corrected and the temporary room was felt to be suitable, “even though it is small.”602

The concrete was completely removed from the beams by the middle of November. Materials 

for the project were brought into the basement “through the double door in the hall way 

just outside the clothing room.” The term “clothing room” probably refers to clothing storage rooms on the south side of the basement, as inmate clothing was issued from the Shower 

Room. The beams and pillars in the Clothing Issue Room were cleaned and repaired also as 

part of the project, the Clothing Issue Room having been temporarily relocated as well.603

597 W. Anderson, [BoP], to Mr. Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, December 4, 1953, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

598 Monthly Report of Custodial Activities, January 4, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

599 [Warden] to Director, BoP, May 21, 1954, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 17.

600 Memorandum for Record, April 26, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03 , 

Box 17.

601 Madigan to Director, BoP, September 23, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 17.

602 Madigan to Director, BoP, November 18, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Box 1.

603 Ibid., and Madigan to Director, BoP, May 1, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 17.
135

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The Shower Room project was nearly complete by October 1956. The shower drain was 

cleaned, a new curb was installed “to keep the shower water from splashing over the fl oor,” 

and showers and mixing valves were reinstalled.604 The partitions were not reinstalled, however, creating an “open room for showering,” which improved custodial control of the area.605

By November 1 the room was painted, and it looked “better than it has ever looked before.”606

The mess benches transferred from the army were returned to the Shower Room, and the 

new curb and the pillars and pipes within the shower area were painted a pale buff or light tan 

color. Columns outside the shower were painted dark green part way up, and the same tan 

color from midpoint to ceiling. Lighting fi xtures consisting of a single bulb attached directly 

to the ceiling are illustrated in fi gure S2, though at least one pendant fi xture with a porcelain 

refl ector still survives in the room (fi gure S5). 

A single toilet was located in the southeast corner of the Shower Room, and a white enamel 

sink and urinal were attached to the south wall. Water fountains were installed at either end 

of the row of showers (fi gures S2 and S3). 

Figure S4, an image from the Indian occupation period, shows a close-up view of the original 

showerheads, as well as soap holders made out of junction boxes strapped to a pipe running 

the length of the shower trough. 

Clothing Issue Room, Federal Penitentiary Period

The Clothing Issue Room was originally located on the east side of the basement, and 

was where inmate clothing and linens were stored, repaired, and distributed. To get to the 

Clothing Issue Room from the Shower Room, inmates were required to “go through two 

doorways and one hallway.” Disorganized movement of prisoners was always a custodial concern, and “[a]s this was at the time when large groups of inmates were in [the] central bathroom, it made control of this function . . . diffi cult.”607

In December 1949 the Clothing Issue Room was moved to the west side of the Shower Room, 

where it was cut off from the rest of the room by a chain-link fence. Access was through a 

locked gate or a service window (fi gure CR1). 

Each inmate was issued two sets of clothing, which included coveralls, trousers, shirts, undershirts, drawers, and socks. Other work or athletic clothing was issued as needed. One set 

of clothing was worn, and one was in the laundry. When clean clothing was received from 

the laundry, it was sorted, repaired, and “binned” for reissue to the inmates after their weekly 

shower. Replacement clothing was handed out at this time also.608

604 Madigan to Director, BoP, June 1, 1956, and October 10, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

605 P. Madigan to Robert Barnes, Senior Architect, BoP, April 16, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Box 1.

606 Madigan to Director, BoP, November 1, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 17.

607 Monthly Report of Custodial Activities, January 4, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

608 Minutes of Planning Committee Meeting, February 17, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

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In early 1953 it was proposed that each inmate be provided with an additional uniform so 

that there was suffi cient time each week to prepare a full outfi t in good condition. At this time 

the bath procedure was also changed so that bathing and clothing issue were a “continuous 

operation without stops for adjustment of clothing issue problems.” Inmates were sent to the 

Clothing Issue Room after their shower for “such attention to [their] clothing as the offi cer in 

charge may fi nd necessary.”609

As part of the 1955–56 project to reinforce the steel support beams beneath the Cell House, 

the Clothing Issue Room was relocated in autumn 1955. Once the area had been cleared, 

workers “cut into the wall between the clothing room and dungeon in one area directly under 

“B” block to see what condition the wall [was] in.”610 The new steel support beams were in 

place by April 1956, and by October the work was complete. The Clothing Issue Room and 

Shower Room were painted, and overall the job was considered a success.611

When Alcatraz closed in March 1963, the following furnishings were in the Clothing Issue 

Room:

1 metal clothes rack 2 carts, metal 1 table, metal, wood top, on 

1 metal bin, 2 compartment 1 table, wood, 7 feet long rollers

15 benches, wood, metal legs 1 desk, typist, double-pedestal 1 bookcase

1 counter, wood, with cabinet 1 electric fl oor polisher 2 tables, small wood

 built-in 2 chairs, folding, wood 1 cabinet, wood

3 mop wringers 2 chairs, wood, arm 1 metal shelving, 7 sectional

6 buckets 1 chair, wood, straight back 1 clothes rack, wood,

1 table, 10 feet long, on rollers 1 chair, swivel, with arms compartmented612

The wooden table is visible in fi gure CR2, dated 1961–62. The 15 wood and metal benches 

were those used in the Shower Room and the adjacent hallway, also called the Lower Sally 

Port. (See above for more on the Lower Sally Port.) Figure CR1 shows what may be a desk or 

a set of shelves positioned against the fence and below the issue window. Various shelves 

appear in this image, as does a fi re extinguisher at the far left. Figure CR2 also shows what 

appear to be labeled wooden shelving units holding folded inmate clothing. The fl oor is polished concrete, and the lighting consists of a single unshaded bulb.

A new Remington typewriter was transferred to the Clothing Issue Room in summer 1956, 

and a machine for marking the clothing was acquired in summer 1955.613 The marking machine was surveyed when the prison closed in 1963.614

609 Ibid.

610 Madigan to Robert D. Barnes, Senior Architect, November 18, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Box 1.

611 Madigan to Robert Barnes, Senior Architect, BoP, April 16, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Box 1 and Madigan to Director, BoP, November 1, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03 Box 17.

612 Lists of property [1963], NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

613 Major Equipment Records, July 1, 1955 and July 1, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

614 N. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, to O. Blackwell, March 6, 1963, and attachment, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.
137

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Only months before Alcatraz closed, additional security bars were installed on the Clothing 

Issue Room windows facing the Golden Gate.615 This security upgrade was in response 

to a December 1962 escape attempt during which two inmates working in the Culinary 

Department sawed through bars on the basement windows. (See Kitchen section above.) 

Print Shop, Federal Penitentiary Period

The entire contents of the Alcatraz Print Shop were declared surplus to military needs and 

transferred to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934.616 (See Appendix F for a list of the contents of the 

Print Shop during the Disciplinary Barracks period.)

Soon after the Bureau of Prisons took over Alcatraz, Warden Johnston noted that the “print 

shop is used very little at this Institution, almost none . . . .”617 The Bureau of Prisons considered transferring the printing equipment to Terminal Island Penitentiary in 1939, but by the 

time the transfer of the equipment was approved in 1941, Terminal Island no longer had need 

of it. Instead, the equipment was to be transferred to McNeil Island Penitentiary.618

By 1949, Alcatraz still had a prisoner working in the shop, but “he is not kept busy by the little 

work which we have here.” At that time, the Alcatraz Print Shop was approved to do a small 

printing job for the U.S. Civil Service, provided that organization furnished the paper.619

By 1960 the Print Shop at Alcatraz was no longer in operation, and the plant was closed. The 

equipment was declared surplus, although details of its disposal or transfer are not known. A 

comparison of the lists of property transferred to the Bureau of Prisons by the army in 1934 

and the lists of surplus property prepared by the Bureau of Prisons shows that most of the 

army equipment remained at Alcatraz until 1960.620

Refrigeration Room, Federal Penitentiary Period

In the 1940s a new refrigeration plant was installed in the north extension off the basement. 

Warden Johnston described the new arrangement: “One unit of the plant was at freezing temperature for storage of meats, the next box was identical in appearance but the temperature a 

little higher for thawing out and storage of meats prior to use, and the third box was for milk 

and eggs and certain vegetables.” 

Johnston went on to describe inmate workers in the area, but it is unclear whether they were 

working in the refrigeration plant itself or outside of the Bakery in the basement wing. He 

615 H. Welch, Captain to Fred Wilkinson, Assistant Director, BoP, February 8, 1963, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 19. 

616 Shipping Ticket, June 16, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 15; 

Transfer to Department of Justice, September 10, 1934, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

617 J. Johnston to J. Bennett, Director, BoP, October 21, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930-1937, 4-49-3-59.

618 W. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, to Mr. L. Vallee, September 19, 1939 and W. Hammack 

to J. Johnston, March 26, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

619 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, January 10, 1949 and Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, to 

E. Swope, January 12, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

620 J. Miller, Chief, Fiscal and Business Branch, BoP, to S. Andretta, Admin. Assistant, Attorney 

General, April 1960 and Equipment Disposal Report, May 20, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

S, E, & M Files, Box 6 and Excess Property list, no date, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

Box 5.

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138

wrote, “Close by but near the windows one prisoner was peeling potatoes and two were trimming and washing lettuce, beets and carrots for the salads. On the opposite wall were clothes 

hooks, boxes and bins and shoe racks with changes of clothing for the cooks, bakers and 

Kitchen workers so that they would be spic and span with white coats, caps and aprons as 

they took their stations to serve food at the steam table.”621

The refrigerators were replaced in early 1958, “just in ‘the nick of time,’” as they were “showing signs of early disintegration.” The seven new refrigerators were 8 ́ × 8 ́ × 8 ́ walk-ins 

transferred from the Department of Defense.622 However, the early refrigerators were not 

removed, and remain in place. (See Kitchen section, above, for more on the Refrigeration Room.)

Hospital Wing, Second Floor

The Hospital is located on the second fl oor of the north wing of the Main Prison Building. 

The medical complex contained sick wards, a Dispensary, storage areas, an Operating Room, 

medical offi ces, and laboratories. During the military period, the Hospital was maintained as 

an “emergency fi rst-aid station,” and diffi cult cases were transferred to Letterman General 

Hospital at the Presidio of San Francisco.623 While the army operated the Hospital, some 

changes were made to the confi guration of cells, offi ces, and living quarters. 

During the penitentiary period the Hospital was under the operation of the U.S. Public Health 

Service (USPHS), and was accredited or “registered” by the American Medical Association 

as early as June 1935.624 Patients typically were treated in the Hospital for most ailments and 

procedures, rather than being removed from the island. Major changes to the Hospital were 

made in 1952, when the large communal Sick Ward was divided into six cells, and in 1957, 

when psychiatric restraint cells were installed.

Hospital, Disciplinary Barracks Period

During the construction of the Main Prison Building, the post surgeon at Alcatraz expressed 

concern that the new Hospital was too small and lacked an operating room, a laboratory, and 

a dark room. The surgeon, Maj. C. Buck, felt that the Hospital should be located in a separate 

building altogether. The Surgeon General disagreed. However, within months after the prison 

opened on February 6, 1912, a project to remodel the new Hospital was 20 percent complete, 

suggesting that some type of postconstruction changes were made.625

By early December 1912 the constructing quartermaster at Alcatraz was given authority to 

install an elevator from the Hospital to the prison roof. The idea was to build a wooden sun 

621 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 246.

622 Associate Warden to Warden, January 15, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 5.

623 Director, BoP, to Dr. Walter Treadway, Assistant Surgeon General, U.S. Public Health Service, 

January 29, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 

4-49-1-9; Col. George Weeks, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1933, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

624 William D. Cutter, Secretary, American Medical Association, to Medical Offi cer in Charge, 

United States Penitentiary Hospital, Alcatraz Island, June 29, 1935, NARA, RG 129, , Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-9.

625 Maj. C. D. Buck to Surgeon General, January 20, 1912 and Brig. Gen. H. G. Sharpe, QMG, to 

Secretary of War, November 23, 1912, NARA, RG 92, General Correspondence, 1890–1914; 

HRS, 318; Constructing Quartermaster, Alcatraz, to Quartermaster General, September 30, 

1912, NARA, RG 92, Document File 1800–1914.
139

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

deck on the roof with a windbreak high enough to protect hospital cots.626 It is not known 

whether this sun deck was constructed, but the elevator was installed on the outside of the 

east face of the wing during the military period (fi gure BP4). 

In 1917 or early 1918 the 9 ́ × 15 ́ medical storeroom shown in fi gure H1 was partitioned from 

the Dispensary. The Storeroom contained eight shelves along the north wall and seven shelves 

along the east wall. A locked cabinet was built at one end of the new room, and the opposite 

end contained additional shelving (fi gure H2).627 By 1930, the section of the Dispensary west 

of the Storeroom had been partitioned to form an offi ce, leaving the Dispensary considerably 

smaller than when originally constructed (fi gure BP4). 

By 1921 the Hospital included a Waiting Room, Clerk’s Room, Offi ce, bathroom for the ward, 

32-bed Main Ward, another smaller ward, the First Sergeant’s Room, a Psychiatric Room, 

Linen Room, Cook’s Room, Kitchen, Mess Room, Property Room, Scullery, Dormitory, 

Dispensary, Receiving Room, Operating Room, Attendant’s Bath Room, Venereal Dressing 

Room, Dark Room, and Pantry. (See fi gure H1 for a fl oor plan of the Hospital Wing ca. 1921.)

A 9 ́ × 26 ́ Dental Offi ce was located in the southwest corner of the second fl oor of the 

Administration Wing.628

The Hospital was heated with steam, as was the rest of the Main Prison Building, and it was illuminated with 63 electric lights. The Hospital Kitchen was originally provided with two coal 

cooking ranges, but in June 1924 a new Rays oil and coal range was installed in the kitchen of 

the Hospital Mess (fi gure H3). The army turned over the oil range to the Bureau of Prisons in 

June 1934.

The fl oors in the Hospital were cement; it was not until October 1931 that red, mahogany, and 

black tile was laid over the original fl ooring. Thirty-four windows in the Hospital had window shades, and all the windows were fi tted with screens. In the early 1920s the Hospital was 

outfi tted with six water closets (toilets), two urinals, four wash sinks, eight wash basins, two 

shower baths, and two bathtubs. By 1934 modifi cations had been made to some of the plumbing fi xtures, and there were fi ve toilets, three kitchen or wash sinks, fi ve wash basins, one 

shower bath, and one bath tub.629

Although both enlisted men and prisoners were treated in the large Main Ward on the north 

end of the Hospital Wing, enlisted men were surrounded by 61⁄2-foot-high wooden screens. 

They also used a separate toilet and bath on the east side of the Hospital. According to the 

1925 Annual Report, the “isolation ward” was divided into four rooms, “two of which open 

on the main hall.”630 Although this confi guration does not appear on either of the fl oor plans 

from the military period, it is possible that the unidentifi ed “ward” and “psychiatric” rooms 

shown in fi gure H1 south of the Main Ward may have served as the isolation ward at that 

626 Offi ce, Chief, Quartermaster Corps, to Constructing Quartermaster, Alcatraz Island, December 7, 1912, NARA, RG 92, Document File 1800–1914; HRS, 318.

627 Building Book, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2. 

628 Ibid.

629 Ibid.

630 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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140

point. Two 1930s fl oor plans show two cells opening directly onto the Sick Ward (fi gures BP4 

and BP8).

The Operating Room was described as “a large well heated, ventilated, lighted and equipped 

room, used only for emergency or minor surgical operations.” As noted above, serious cases 

were transferred to Letterman General Hospital at the Presidio. The “dressing room” or “receiving room” was located adjacent to the Operating Room and was used “for taking sick call, 

[and] minor surgical procedures.” By 1930 this room was called the “sterilizer room.” The 

X-ray unit was up and running, and a dark room was located in the northeast corner of the 

Dressing Room. It was used “for eye, ear, nose and throat examination and treatment, and for 

the development of X-ray fi lms” (fi gures H1 and BP4).631

The X-ray unit was ordered by the post surgeon in 1918. When it was delivered, the surgeon 

was on leave, and one of the offi cers accepted it and plugged it directly into a wall outlet. The 

machine was destroyed and another one had to be requisitioned.632

The 1925 report noted that the Pharmacy and “clinical laboratory” were combined, probably in the Dispensary Room illustrated in fi gure H1. These rooms were described as 

“well equipped and in charge of a competent technician.” The Medicine Storeroom in the 

Pharmacy contained a “concrete narcotic and liquor cabinet,” which provided “adequate 

protection” for these substances. By this time the Attending Surgeon’s Offi ce was located on 

the west side of the wing, probably in the new space within the Dispensary illustrated in fi gure 

BP4. His offi ce was described as “adjoin[ing] the Pharmacy and Clinical Laboratory and furnishes an excellent degree of privacy for consultations.”633

The Squad Room for the enlisted men working in the Hospital was located on the east side of 

the Hospital Wing. The Recreation Room for enlisted men was also in the “hospital section,” 

although it is unclear whether the room was used by all enlisted men stationed on the island 

or just those assigned to the Medical Department. New furniture and a radio receiving set 

were acquired for the room in early 1925. The room was used “a great deal by the men and is a 

special need because of the narrow limits of this island station.”634

Although the Commandant at Alcatraz seemed perfectly satisfi ed with the layout and arrangement of the medical complex, the Assistant Director of the Bureau of Prisons found the facilities inconvenient and awkward. He described “one instance:”

[The army is] trying to use every minute of the time of expert consultants and surgeons 

who are employed on a part time basis. Under the present arrangement the nurses are 

told to remain in a certain part of the hospital while the visiting doctors are in attendance. 

The doctors have no place to disrobe and prepare for the operating room except out in 

the main hall where they fi nd it necessary to change their clothing in full view of prisoners 

631 Ibid.

632 Dr. G. Fahrenson interview.

633 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

634 Ibid.
141

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

or anyone who may pass along the corridor. The operating room is crowded to an unreasonable extent. The X-ray room is in the basement and the doctors who are preparing for 

an operation, after they have washed up and gotten ready on the top fl oor, accompany a 

patient down to the fi rst fl oor in order to secure an X-ray. When they have more than one 

prisoner to operate, instead of being able to prepare a prisoner in one room while work 

is going on in another the specialist has to wait out in the hall while one patient is being 

removed and the next patient gotten ready.635

Hospital furnishings included 14 single iron bedsteads, four desks, six dining tables, one 

kitchen table, two “common” tables, 16 wall lockers, and one refrigerator. Between June 

1932 and June 1933 a new two-compartment stainless steel sink measuring 54 ̋ × 24 ̋ × 18 ̋ was 

installed in the Hospital Kitchen. The same year a new 42.5-cubic-foot electric refrigerator 

was also installed, and rectangular glazed white tile was laid on the walls in the Kitchen and 

Scullery. A white Portland cement fl oor was poured in the Scullery at the same time (fi gure 

H3).636 The stainless steel sink was turned over to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934.637

The army began painting the interior of the Hospital Wing in 1925 and completed the job before the end of June 1926.638 Sometime in 1932 or early 1933 the Hospital was painted again. 

The Dental Offi ce on the south side of the second fl oor Administration Wing was also painted 

at this time. Three large wooden storage cabinets were installed in the Hospital Wing in 1932–

33 as well. One was used for blank forms in one of the offi ces, one was used to store linen in 

the ward, and a third was for “general utility purposes.”639

At the same time, white enameled sinks were installed in the Pharmacy and in the Operating 

Room. A new white enameled wash stand and two new white enameled slop sinks were also 

installed in the toilet room used by the patients in the Sick Ward. The Operating Room sterilizer was repaired, and the offi ces at the north end of the wing received new electric light 

fi xtures. One of the Hospital Ward toilets was removed, and a tile and slate shower bath was 

installed for the use of sick prisoners. A new tile shower bath was also installed in the enlisted 

men’s toilet at the south end of the wing, near the enlisted men’s quarters.640

The Annual Report for 1925 noted that the dental infi rmary was “well equipped with operating and laboratory material and appliances,” but pointed out that since the disciplinary 

barracks at Alcatraz had not had a Dental Corps offi cer permanently on duty since January 

1921, many patients needing dental treatment could not be served.641 Prior to the transfer of 

635 W. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, to Director, BoP, January 11, 1934, NARA, RG 129, , 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-42.

636 Building Book, Alcatraz, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2; Col. George Weeks, Commandant, 

Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 

1933, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

637 Real Estate Branch to R & U Branch, Historic Records Unit, September 10, 1934, in Building 

Book, Alcatraz, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

638 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1926, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

639 Col. George Weeks, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1933, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

640 Ibid.

641 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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Alcatraz to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934, Assistant Director William Hammack noted that 

the army did have a dental chair and complete dental equipment, although the chair was 

not the preferred Ritter brand. He felt the army dental equipment would be acceptable for 

use in the new facility, but noted “it does not make as good appearance as the more modern 

equipment.”642

Hospital capacity was listed as 34 patients throughout most of the military period, although 

when the army turned over the facility to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934 capacity was noted 

at 30 patients and 10 orderlies. The 1925 report noted that the Main Ward and the Isolation 

Wards combined had a capacity of 40 beds.643 The Annual Report for 1933 noted that the authorized strength of the enlisted detachment in the Medical Department had been reduced to 

11 men, which was “not adequate to operate the medical department activities at all times.”644

Prisoners attending sick call or visiting the dental unit were required to rinse out their 

mouths, and to be sure that “no tobacco stains are on your lips or tongue.” They were to stand 

in line quietly at sick call and if sent to the Hospital were to remain “quiet and strictly obedient,” keeping themselves neat and using appropriate language around Hospital attendants and 

nurses.645

By 1930, the Hospital detail consisted of one assistant cook, two kitchen police, two janitors, 

and one dining room orderly. These men were under the charge of the Post Surgeon. One of 

the detail was a “pass man” who ran errands for the Medical Department staff . He carried a 

pass with him when he left the Main Prison Building, but he was allowed to go outside of the 

building without a pass to operate the exterior elevator that ran from the disciplinary barracks 

Kitchen on the ground fl oor of the Hospital Wing up to the Scullery next to the Hospital 

Kitchen. The Scullery window leading to the elevator was locked except when there was an 

overseer in the Hospital Kitchen.646

Prisoners sent to the Hospital for an interview were to wait in a “quiet and orderly” manner 

in the “Main Hall” at the south end of the wing near the stairway to the Cell House. Prisoners 

sent to the Hospital to receive treatment were to report directly to the Dispensary (pharmacy) 

or other designated treatment location. Property of prisoners in the Hospital was stored in 

a storeroom, but it is not clear whether that room was located in the Hospital Wing or in the 

Cell House proper.647

642 Director, BoP, to Dr. Walter Treadway, Assistant Surgeon General, USPHS, January 29, 1934, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-9.

643 Building Book, Alcatraz, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2; Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, 

Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 

1925, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

644 Col. George Weeks, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1933, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

645 “Regulations and Information for the United States Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California: 

For the guidance of General Prisoners Confi ned Therein.” July 1, 1928, GGNRA Park Archives 

collections.

646 No. 14, October 10, 1930, in Maj. W. Stewart, Executive Offi cer, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, 

Alcatraz, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, GGNRA Park Archives 

collections.

647 No. 40, October 20, 1930, in Maj. W. Stewart, Executive Offi cer, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, 

Alcatraz, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, GGNRA Park Archives 

collections.
143

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Hospital, Federal Penitentiary Period

When Alcatraz was transferred to the Bureau of Prisons, the U.S. Public Health Service was 

appointed by law to “supervise and furnish the medical and psychiatric service” at the new 

penitentiary. The Surgeon General pointed out that because “the institution at Alcatraz Island 

is to be organized with emphasis on the maximum safety features, it will not be feasible to arrange temporary visits to the mainland for treatment of intercurrent illnesses.” He requested 

that the medical offi cer in charge at the U.S. Marine Hospital in San Francisco consult with 

Bureau of Prisons representatives to determine army medical supplies and equipment suitable 

for transfer to the Bureau of Prisons hospital. The Surgeon General cautioned, “[I]t will be 

necessary to provide reasonable equipment to meet the medical needs, which you appreciate 

are very diversifi ed. In making your representations concerning supplemental equipment, you 

should keep in mind the diversifi cation of diseases and disorders to be treated here.”648

The surgeon organizing the new Hospital at Alcatraz was “disheartened” by the existing facilities in the Main Prison Building; the Assistant Director of the Bureau of Prisons shared 

his view, as did Warden Johnston and the Bureau of Prisons architect. In January 1934 they 

agreed to solicit bids to remodel the prison to provide “all the facilities possible . . . if the work 

could be done within the amount of money allotted.”649

The Assistant Director met later in the month with representatives from the Marine Hospital 

in San Francisco, who were to provide Alcatraz with “complete surgical, dental and hospital 

service” through the staff at the Marine Hospital. There was to be at least one resident physician at Alcatraz, in addition to one or more male nurses living on the island. The Marine 

Hospital would provide staff for surgery and other procedures as necessary.650

An engineering consultant for the Bureau of Prisons recommended that tool-proof window 

guards be installed in the Hospital and that the exterior stairway on the east side of the north 

end of the wing be enclosed with tool-proof plate and a grating door. He also suggested that 

a cut-off grating be installed in the stair hall, or entrance hall, at the south end of the wing “so 

that the prisoners may use the toilets shown on the plan without being able to go down the 

stairs to the fi rst fl oor” (fi gures H18 and BP8).651

It was also recommended that the elevator or “little dumb waiter” on the east side of the wing 

be done away with, the access window be secured with a tool-proof window guard, and supplies be brought from the basement to the Hospital via the stairway. It was suggested that the 

trap door in the entrance hall giving access to the roof be protected with steel grating and a 

lock, but that the false ceiling throughout the Hospital could be left alone, as prisoners climbing over the ceiling through an air vent would still fi nd themselves beneath the reinforced 

concrete roof.652

648 H. S. Cumming, Surgeon General, to Medical offi cer in Charge, United States Marine Hospital, December 12, 1933, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 

1930–1937, 4-49-1-9.

649 W. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, to Director, BoP, January 11, 1934, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-42.

650 Director, BoP, to Dr. Walter Treadway, Assistant Surgeon General, USPHS, January 29, 1934, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-9.

651 Robert Bunge, Consulting Engineer, to S. Bates, Director, BoP, November 17, 1933, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-0.

652 Ibid.

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The army was willing to transfer most of the prison hospital equipment and supplies to the 

Bureau of Prisons, but the Assistant Director complained that “all of the [army] appliances 

are obsolete and hardly any of them are suited for the service which I understand we are expected to provide at Alcatraz.” As examples, he pointed out the “small sterilizer which has a 

very limited use,” the “very limited supply of surgical instruments,” and the lack of an X-ray 

machine.653 The army did in fact transfer thousands of items to the Bureau of Prisons, ranging 

from X-ray fi lm, hospital beds, and kitchen equipment to bookcases, typewriters, bed pans, 

and forceps. The Bureau of Prisons accepted it all, planning to “condemn and dispose of” any 

items not needed in the new Hospital.654

In his 1949 book, Warden Johnston mentioned some of the Hospital’s strong points: “It was 

ample and well arranged on an upper fl oor so that an abundance of light fl ooded one very 

large ward and three medium size wards and the operating room.” He went on to describe 

changes made by the Bureau of Prisons: 

We split one room that had been attendants’ quarters into three bar partitioned cells for 

observation and control of mental cases. We installed more modern X-ray equipment 

and added some lamps, tubs and cabinets for physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. Later we 

enlarged the dental department and laboratory and rearranged the out-patient room for 

convenience of handling those responding to the daily sick call.655

Figure H1 identifi es the room that was partitioned into three cells as one of the wards, but 

this drawing was made before 1921, so its use may have changed by the time the Bureau of 

Prisons came in 1934. Figure BP8, a 1933–34 plan for retrofi tting the second fl oor with toolproof steel bars, shows the room just south of the Main Ward divided into two cells and 

a Linen Room. The three cells were not actually constructed until 1936. (See discussion of 

Observation Wards, below.)

In November 1934 the Medical Department at Alcatraz was authorized to purchase and install “a system of liquefi ed gas” (nitrous oxide) that was to be used in the dental laboratory 

and in the Hospital medical lab. Only one steel cabinet to hold the gas tanks was purchased,656

which suggests that the equipment was mobile and used on the south end of the Hospital 

Wing, convenient to both the medical laboratory and the recently relocated dental laboratory. 

Bureau of Prisons administrators had intended to move the Dental Offi ce from the south side 

of the second fl oor over to the Hospital Wing on the north side after the 1934 transfer, and it 

is likely that the Dental Offi ce was moved by this time. Some dental procedures requiring anesthetic may have been done in the Operating Room. It is also possible that during this period 

anesthesia was initially administered in the laboratory adjacent to the Operating Room, rather 

653 Director, BoP, to Dr. Walter Treadway, Assistant Surgeon General, USPHS, January 29, 1934, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-9.

654 W. L. Treadway, Assistant Surgeon General, USPHS, to Director, BoP, March 9, 1934 and C. 

Manly, Colonel, Medical Corps, to G-4 [Army], January 22, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-0; and Cross-Reference Sheet, 

March 15, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 

4-49-1-10.

655 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison, 124.

656 J. Johnston to W. Hammack, BoP, November 6, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-10. 
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

than in the Operating Room itself. Administration of anesthetic outside the Operating Room 

was common practice in the early 20th century.657

The purchase of the liquefi ed gas also illustrates the division of expenses between the Bureau 

of Prisons and the USPHS. The gas was purchased by the Public Health Service, but the 

equipment and installation were handled by the Bureau of Prisons.658

By late 1935, a room off the Main Hospital Ward was being used for inmates infected by tuberculosis. It is not clear whether this room was on the east or west side of the center hall, but 

it was described as “capacious,” with “good ventilation and light.” It was not big enough for 

more than three patients, though, and tubercular patients not segregated in the separate room 

were kept in the Main Ward “isolated by a screen.” Chief Medical Offi cer George Hess noted 

that this arrangement was “not in keeping with my policy for handling this type of case.”659

The construction of three separate Observation Wards was approved in April 1936. These 

were to be detention rooms “for handling mental cases.” Materials were estimated at $1,300, 

and the prison planned to provide the labor.660 The Medical Director for the Bureau of 

Prisons described the inpatient fl oor space at Alcatraz as “an open ward and large adjoining rooms” in 1947, in a letter pointing out that maximum security prisoners such as those at 

Alcatraz would never be allowed to fi ll the wards, and recommending that hospital bed capacity be reduced accordingly.661 By the middle of 1948 the inpatient department consisted of 

“3 wards, one large 10–15 bed ward, and 2 smaller 3-bed wards. We also have 3 cells adjacent 

to the wards which are used for psychotic patients prior to transfer to the Medical Center for 

Federal Prisoners at Springfi eld, Missouri” (fi gure H13).662 The “smaller 3-bed wards” may 

have been the two rooms on the east side of the wing just south of the Ward Room.

During the penitentiary period meals for hospital patients were not prepared in the large 

Kitchen on the east side of the Hospital Wing. In summer 1937 Warden Johnston noted that 

the kitchen range had “never been used by us,” and proposed that a new continuous fl ow bath 

be acquired and installed in the former army Kitchen. Costs for tiling walls and fl oors in the 

Kitchen “where necessary” were included in the request, and funding was soon authorized.663

Eventual disposition of the army range is not known.

The same year, Chief Medical Offi cer George Hess, in consultation with the physiotherapist 

at the U.S. Marine Hospital, acquired a Hogan “Brevatherm” diathermy apparatus, manufactured by the McIntosh Electrical Corporation. The short-wave electrical apparatus was used 

657 Marianne Bankert, Watchful Care: A History of America’s Nurse Anesthetists (New York: The 

Continuum Publishing Company, 1989), 32.

658 J. Johnston to W. Hammack, BoP, November 6, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-10.

659 George Hess, Chief Medical Offi cer to Warden Johnston, October 27, 1935, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-9.

660 W. Hammack, BoP, to Warden, April 22, 1936 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-3-2.

661 Justin Fuller, Medical Director, BoP, to Dr. Yocum, Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz, October 13, 

1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

662 [Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz] to Surgeon General, Annual Report of Medical Activities for 

Fiscal Year ending June 30, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

663 J. Johnston to Director, BoP, August 19, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters) 1930-1937, 4-49-1-10.

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146

to generate heat in the tissues of the body.664 The Alcatraz Hospital also received an electric 

light cabinet equipped with incandescent bulbs to create a type of “light bath” for the body. 

The electric cabinet for Alcatraz was to be modifi ed by removing plate glass mirrors used to 

refl ect the light and substituting chrome-plated steel plates that could not be broken.665

The hydrotherapy tank in use in 1959 was 36 ̋ long, 14 ̋ wide, and 23 ̋ deep, with controls 

mounted on the walls. Medical Department staff could not locate a brand name for the tank 

and it was in some disrepair, but the institution plumber was able to fi x the controls and “put 

the unit in good condition.” Purchase of a new electric turbine ejector was also under consideration.666 During fi scal year 1960 acquisition of a new agitator for the “leg and hip tank” provided the hydrotherapy unit with all needed equipment.667 The stainless steel physiotherapy 

tank and a porcelain sitz bath appear on the list of equipment remaining in the Hospital when 

the prison closed in spring 1963.668

As early as December 1937 the Director of the Bureau of Prisons recommended that a “psychopathic ward” be constructed at Alcatraz. Rather than transfer “serious mental cases” to 

the institution at Springfi eld, Director James Bennett preferred to improve the facilities at 

Alcatraz.669 A few months letter, the “proposed rearrangement of [the] neuro-psychiatric 

section” was mentioned in correspondence between the Bureau of Prisons and the Chief 

Medical Offi cer at Alcatraz,670 but it is not clear whether any remodeling took place before the 

general reorganization of the Hospital Wing in 1951.

The Dental Room was modernized in 1941, at a cost of $4,256.46. The work was added on to 

the construction contract to build the Treatment Unit in Cell Block D, and was completed by 

January 1942. Although details of the modernization have not been located, the Dental Room 

was in operation by the beginning of 1942 and presented a “neat appearance.”671

The Dental Department had on hand in early 1953 a surplus Weber “Majestic” dental unit, a 

dental chair, a dental cabinet, and a Pelton spotlight. These items, although incomplete, were 

scheduled to be transferred to the prison camp at Tucson.672 Repairs were made to a Weber 

dental unit in June 1955,673 which could mean that the Dental Department consistently used 

this brand of equipment, or that they repaired the equipment before the transfer, which they 

664 W. Hammack to Warden Johnston, September 13, 1937 and George Hess to Director, BoP, 

September 4, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–

1937, 4–49-1-10.

665 Cross Reference Sheet, Memo to Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz, April 29, 1938, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6..

666 Jesse Casey, Chief MTA for Chief Medical Offi cer to Medical Director, BoP, October 12, 1959, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

667 Annual Report for Fiscal Year 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 

21.

668 List of Equipment in Hospital, May 15, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 7.

669 James Bennett, Director, BoP, to Attorney General, December 18, 1937, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-11-0.

670 Cross Reference Sheet, Memo to Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz, April 29, 1938, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6. 

671 Walter Sanger, Construction Engineer, to Supervising Engineer, Federal Works Agency, January 3, 1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.

672 Lloyd Shumaker, Supervisory Medical Technical Assistant, to Medical Director, BoP, February 

16, 1953 and February 26, 1953,” NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

673 Purchase Order, June 14, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.
147

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

had off ered to do. The transaction suggests that the department acquired at least some new 

dental equipment after the 1934 army transfer, so as to have surplus by 1953. The Naval Supply 

Center in Oakland provided gray dental hand towels to the dental unit in 1956.674

A Castle Pano-Vision light was acquired for use with the Weber Majestic dental unit in late 

1959, enhancing “the overall appearance of our dental department.” The new light replaced 

the Pelton light in use.675

By 1958 there was “a great need for a new dental unit with Hi-speed accessories” and a dental 

autoclave, or sterilizer. If this unit was acquired the medical offi cer wanted to refi nish the dental equipment in place to match the new equipment.676 Later in the year a high speed offi ce 

autoclave with a cabinet was acquired for the Hospital,677 but it is not clear whether this was 

for the dental unit or for the surgical section. 

A jade green Weber dental X-ray unit was purchased in spring 1962, with proceeds from the 

sale of the old equipment to be applied to the $994 purchase price.678 A Weber X-ray machine 

from the Hospital was declared surplus in August 1962,679 so it is possible that no credit was 

received for the old unit. Alternatively, the surplus Weber machine may have been the medical 

X-ray machine, rather than the dental machine.

Before Alcatraz closed in 1963, the Weber dental unit and dental X-ray unit, along with a dental air compressor, were included on a list of items suitable for transfer to Marion Penitentiary. 

Later correspondence, however, includes a dental unit, dental hand piece, dental chair, and 

dental light on a list of equipment to be abandoned on site.680

When the prison closed, three light-green metal dental cabinets, the Weber “Majestic” dental 

unit, a light-green Weber dental chair, and the Castle Pano-Vision light remained in the dental 

section.681

Next to the Dental Room was the “main sick call receiving area.” A former Medical Technical 

Assistant (MTA) recalled that his desk was located in that room and that there were “medical 

cabinets all along there by the window.” The medical cabinets were locked for security reasons. The doctor and the MTA worked together in this room, “which was an examining room, 

a treatment room for removal of corns and warts, minor surgery. We had a surgical table in 

674 “Supplies—Medical and Dental” folder, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 14.

675 Jon Swansson, MTA for Chief Medical Offi cer, to Medical Director, BoP, November 9, 1959, 

and Jesse Casey, Chief MTA for Chief Medical Offi cer, to Medical Director, BoP, October 12, 

1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

676 Annual Report for the Fiscal Year 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 21. 

677 Purchase Order, October 3, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

678 Purchase Order, May 1, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

679 Report of Survey, August 30, 1962, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

680 J. Casey, Alcatraz, to Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, January 14, 1963 and Business 

Manager, Alcatraz, to J. D. Miller, Fiscal and Business Branch, BoP, May 31, 1963, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

681 List of Hospital Equipment, May 15, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 7.

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148

here rather than use the main operating room. . . . We’d do the stitching in here rather than 

using the operating room.”682

Former MTA Warren Hack described some of the procedures:

[W]e had everything lined up on a count basis . . . you’d have a limited amount of needles 

out there that you needed. Maybe ten or so and then after sick call we’d immediately count 

everything. But we were even more strict than that. If we gave a hypodermic to somebody . . . 

we’d open [the cabinet] for treatment and relock it instantly . . . after that we would usually 

count everything and make sure we weren’t missing anything . . . . [I]t’s an inconvenience in 

an emergency to lock it because you don’t know what you’re going to need next.683

In the surgical preparation area across the hall there were more locked cabinets. Hack recalled, “All your sterile packs and surgical instruments were ready to go. They were locked up 

in this area . . . this is where you entered the main surgery itself. So all your supplies for the 

most part were kept out here.”684 The washing up sink for surgeons was also in this area.

Hack noted that the Operating Room “wasn’t the best of operating rooms.” He pointed out: 

the main problem was that you couldn’t wash these walls down properly and in major 

hospitals after that time . . . you could scrub down walls. They’d have tiles [on the walls] 

. . . you could scrub that down with disinfectant. But these walls—we did scrub them, 

but . . . as rough as they are, it’s not an easy thing to be sure that they’re bacteria-free.

Anesthesia machines and instrument cabinets were located in the Operating Room, as was 

the operating table, which also served as the anesthetic table.685

The Pharmacy on the west side of the Hospital Wing held “drugs and supplies . . . that were not in 

any way to be considered dangerous by ordinary sick.” The Pharmacy supplied “aspirin, lozenges 

or sore throat medication, treatment of colds . . . that was kept in the open.” Controlled medications and narcotics were kept in a locked room or in a safe, “a metal-type cabinet.”686

“[S]imple laboratory procedures like blood count, white cells and red count, urinalysis and 

certain other very simple tests” were carried out in the clinical laboratory. Electrocardiograms 

were also performed there. More advanced studies were sent to the laboratory at the USPHS 

Marine Hospital.687

By late 1941, Bureau of Prisons architects were in the midst of planning for the remodeling of 

the Hospital Wing at Alcatraz. Blueprints were drawn up, lighting fi xtures were discussed, and 

ceiling heights and confi gurations were considered.688 In June 1942, Director James Bennett 

682 Warren Hack interview.

683 Ibid.

684 Ibid.

685 Ibid.

686 Ibid.

687 Ibid.

688 Robert Barnes, Construction Inspector, to Warden Johnston, October 14, 1941, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6; and J. Johnston to Robert Dunbar, Construction Supervisor, BoP, January 26, 1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

visited Alcatraz, and upon his return to Washington, postponed the Hospital remodeling until 

“after the emergency,”689 referring to the entry of the United States into World War II.

During the war, the Medical Director requested and received funding for four portable pistolgrip searchlights “for emergency operations in case of air raids and bombings.” The searchlights could be used with dry-cell or automobile batteries, and could be set up on a stanchion 

rod or be carried with a shoulder harness.690

In 1946 the Chief Medical Offi cer’s Offi ce was located in the northwest corner of the northern extension of the Hospital Wing; the Administrative and Record Offi ce was located in the 

center of the row of offi ces, and the Medical Library and Intern’s Offi ce was located at the 

east end of the wing, next to the exterior stairway (fi gure H13).691 Fluorescent lights were installed in each of these offi ces in the spring of that year, along with upgraded lighting in the 

Administration Wing. The light fi xtures used in the medical offi ces were made by Day-Bright 

Lighting, Inc., and each held four four-foot-long, 40-watt bulbs.692

A Picker “100 m.a.” X-ray unit and a new fl uoroscope were installed in the Hospital in 1947.693

The X-ray unit was wired for alternating current at the time the new equipment was put in, 

and it was assumed that radiation protection was also installed at that time. As it turned out, 

although the sheet lead was on hand at the time “for some reason the work was not done,” 

and there was no radiation protection in the room. Upon learning of this oversight in spring 

1950 the Bureau of Prison’s Medical Director immediately authorized acquisition of a mobile 

operator’s protective X-ray screen, with a lead glass window.694 A Picker X-ray protective 

screen on casters remained in the Hospital until its closing in spring 1963.695

In late November 1951 there was trouble with the X-ray unit, and as it had not been inspected 

since its installation, a representative from the Sicular X-ray Company in San Francisco was 

sent to the island to inspect and recalibrate the unit, which operated at “peak performance” 

again after the tune-up.696 In February 1952, a Sicular Company representative replaced an 

689 Robert Dunbar, Construction Supervisor, BoP, “Memorandum for the Files,” June 29, 1942, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2. A series of fi ve blueprints dated 

1940 for the “Reconstruction of the Hospital,” is located at NARA, College Park, Maryland.. 

See Folders 1 and 2, Alcatraz Island, California, RG 121, Records of the Public Buildings Service.

690 L. Mills to Director, BoP, March 16, 1942 and attachment, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M, 

Box 6.

691 J. Johnston to J. Bennett, Director, BoP, January 19, 1946, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Box 6.

692 J. McFadden, . Supt. of Construction, Alcatraz, to J. Johnston, March 1946, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Box 6.

693 [Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz] to Surgeon General, Annual Report of Medical Activities for 

Fiscal Year ending June 30, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

694 R. Yocum, Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz, to Dr. Krumbiegel, Medical Director, BoP, May 1, 

1950, Dr. Krumbiegel to Surgeon R. Yocum, April 17, 1950, and Request for quotation, May 

4, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

695 List of Hospital Equipment, May 15, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 7.

696 Milton Meltzer to Medical Director, BoP, November 15, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

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X-ray tube in the unit, at a cost of $266.697 Administrative staff planned to abandon the X-ray 

unit, an X-ray storage bin, and other X-ray equipment on site when Alcatraz closed in 1963.698

By late 1950, the Alcatraz Medical Department used a Prometheus-brand 600-watt infrared 

lamp for up to 40 heat lamp treatments per day. After the Prometheus lamp broke, the department operated for several months without a lamp and eventually purchased a Hanovia-brand 

“Sullux” lamp before the end of the year.699 One of these lamps may be illustrated in fi gure H15. 

In 1951 the Medical Department ordered a Focalite physician’s examining lamp and a Burton 

“shortie” model. These were both gooseneck lamps mounted on a telescoping tube fi tted into 

a stable base. They could be used in the Operating Room or for examining patients.700 One 

of these lamps was considered suitable for transfer to Marion Penitentiary when Alcatraz 

closed.701

The Medical Department also acquired an ultraviolet lamp and a Jones Basal Metabolism unit 

in 1953.702 Both were still in the Hospital before Alcatraz closed in 1963.703

In June 1947 the Medical Department acquired a Cambridge portable electrocardiograph, 

used to measure and record heart rate and function. A “Simpli-Trol” electrocardiograph 

was on hand in March 1955, at which time it received emergency service and repairs. The 

Cambridge unit was replaced in November 1956 with a new Cardiotron “direct-writing” portable cardiograph manufactured by Electro-Physical Laboratories in Boston.704

The Cardiotron was repaired and many parts were replaced in May 1958.705 By 1962 the 

Cardiotron was no longer manufactured and replacement parts could not be obtained. The 

old model was replaced through the emergency purchase of a new Viso-Cariette model 100, 

which was delivered in April 1962 and functioned “perfectly.”706 The electrocardiograph was 

considered suitable for transfer to Marion Penitentiary in 1963.707

697 Purchase Order, February 12, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 14.

698 W. Bones, Business Manager, Alcatraz, to J. Miller, Chief, Fiscal and Business Branch, BoP, 

May 31, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

699 Keenan [MTA] to Medical Director, BoP, October 17, 1950 and Purchase Order, December 13, 

1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14. Heat lamps were used to 

increase blood circulation.

700 Milton Meltzer, Chief Medical Offi cer, to Medical Director, BoP, November 30, 1951, and 

Requests for quotations, December 11, 1951, Prometheus Electric Corp. and Max Wocher 

and Son Company, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

701 J. Casey, Alcatraz, to Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, January 14, 1963, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

702 Lloyd Shumaker, Senior Medical Technical Assistant, to Medical Director, BoP, April 14, 1953, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

703 List of Hospital Equipment, May 15, 1963 and Surplus Property Declaration, February 15, 

1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

704 Purchase Order, March 18, 1955, Invitation, Bid, and Award, October 11, 1956 and Purchase 

Order November 13, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

705 Purchase Order, May 20, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

706 J. Casey, Chief MTA, Alcatraz, to Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, April 18, 1962, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

707 J. Casey, Alcatraz, to Elizabeth M. Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, January 14, 1963, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

A photoelectric colorimeter, or “colorimeter-spectrophotometer” was acquired during fi scal year 1958 for use in the laboratory. This instrument measured the relative intensities of 

light within the spectrum and determined or analyzed colors. It was called a “valuable asset to our program” and noted as a “major improvement.” By this time, the annual report 

noted that most diagnostic procedures, including “X-ray procedures, routine clinical laboratory tests, electrocardiography, and basal metabolisms,” were available within the Medical 

Department.708 The colorimeter-spectrophotometer was in good enough condition to be 

transferred to Marion Penitentiary in 1963.709

A new phorometer, an instrument for detecting and measuring imbalance in the muscles of 

the eye, was received from military surplus in 1960 and was a “great help in our eye clinic in 

both effi ciency and time saved.”710 It had an extendable arm and a gooseneck-type light fi xture and was still in the Hospital when the prison closed in 1963.711

A Universal folding wheelchair was received in June 1961.712 It was in suitable condition to be 

transferred to Marion Penitentiary in 1963.713

An adult folding laryngoscope with a battery handle was acquired in 1955 and also was in suitable condition to be transferred to another facility in 1963.714

The army transferred 28 white enamel hospital beds and two adjustable beds to the Bureau of 

Prisons in 1934, and it appears that those beds were in continual use throughout the penitentiary period. The beds in use in 1957 were termed, “an odd assortment of old hospital beds, 

some of which dated back to World War I.”715 Two nonadjustable hospital beds without casters were purchased in 1953.716

During fi scal year 1958, 40 hospital beds were transferred to the Hospital from Parks Air 

Force Base at no cost to Alcatraz. The beds were “fully serviceable without repairs,” in good 

condition and equipped with adjustable “gatch” frames. Mattresses in use at this time were 

“old delapidated [sic] kapok” but the medical offi cer hoped to receive 60 interspring mattresses from the Veteran’s Administration in Oakland.717 Thirty-four gatch beds remained in 

the Hospital when the institution closed in 1963. Of the 34, only six were fully operable.718

708 Annual Report for the Fiscal Year 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 21.

709 J. Casey, Alcatraz, to Elizabeth M. Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, January 14, 1963, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

710 Annual Report for Fiscal Year 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

711 List of Hospital Equipment, May 15, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 7.

712 J. Casey, Chief MTA, Alcatraz, to Miss Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, June 12, 1961, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

713 List of Hospital Equipment, May 15, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 7.

714 Kaeppel, Chief Clerk to Medical Director, BoP, August 5, 1955, telegram, Box 14, and List of 

materials, January 16, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

715 Annual Report for the Fiscal Year 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 21.

716 Purchase Order, September 12, 1953, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

717 Annual Report for the Fiscal Year 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

718 List of Equipment in Hospital, May15, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 7.

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A large mirror was installed at the top of the stairs at the south end of the Hospital Wing in 

November 1949. The mirror allowed the custodial offi cer in the Hospital to see inmates using the stairs, “as well as any inmates who may be waiting at foot of steps previous to being 

released to dining room.”719 After the 1946 Cell House riots (see above), 1⁄4-inch mesh was installed over the grill at the foot of the staircase to the Hospital Wing.720

According to a former MTA, there was an offi cer’s station in the waiting area. The offi cer in 

the waiting area “had contact with the cell house offi cer and they would let two or three up at 

a time. They didn’t want to have too many inmates at a time.” The bathroom near the waiting 

area was used by both inmates and correctional offi cers.721

In April 1951, Warden Swope requested Bureau of Prisons approval of a plan to relocate the 

Medical Offi cer’s Offi ce and the Administrative Offi ce from the north end of the Hospital 

Wing to the main Hospital corridor. The Nurses’ Offi ce was already located along the corridor.722 Swope pointed out that with the offi ces located on the north end of the wing, medical 

staff had to open two grille gates and pass through the Main Ward to get to the main corridor. 

With offi ces in the corridor, medical staff could conduct interviews and attend patients in B 

and C Wards, the smaller rooms south of the main Ward Room, without the time-consuming 

locking and unlocking of the grille gates to the Main Ward.723

The only physical changes required by this reshuffl ing of offi ces were to cut three new doorways through nonbearing partitions and add telephone extensions in the two new offi ces.724

After the project was underway, the Chief Medical Offi cer realized that an additional door 

was needed in the wall between the Nurses’ Offi ce and the Administrative Offi ce; he soon requested and received permission to cut the doorway.725

It was suggested that toilet facilities be added for the new offi ces at the time of the renovation, 

using fi xtures from the toilet adjacent to the original Medical Offi cer’s Offi ce. It was also recommended that toilet facilities for patients in Wards B and C be added at this time along with 

another door to the Operating Room, as the Sterilizer Room between the main corridor and 

the Operating Room was necessarily used as a passage way.726 These renovations probably did 

not take place at this time.

By 1958 the Chief Medical Offi cer’s Offi ce, also called the “doctor’s offi ce,” was no longer 

used. Warden Madigan suggested removing the partition between the offi ce, which was 

“small and poorly lighted,” and the Hospital Administrative Offi ce. The new room could be 

719 [Captain of Guard] to BoP, Division of Field Operations, December 2, 1949, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

720 Lammers to Dunbar, April 18, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

721 Warren Hack interview.

722 E . Swope to Director, BoP, April 19, 1951 and Robert Barnes, Senior Architect, BoP, to E. 

Swope, April 25, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

723 E. Swope to Director, BoP, April 19, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 1. 

724 Ibid., and Robert Barnes, Senior Architect, BoP, to E. Swope, April 25, 1951, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

725 Dr. Krumbiegel, BoP, to Robert Barnes, BoP, May 2, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

726 Robert D. Barnes, Senior Architect, BoP, to E. Swope, April 25, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.
153

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

used by both the chief medical offi cer and the chief MTA. The door opening into the “Nurse’s 

chart room” would be locked, and access to the offi ce would be from the corridor only.727

According to one former inmate, the doctor’s offi ce contained a “cute darn safe” in the corner. The safe was used to store drugs, and the door to the offi ce was always kept closed: “nobody got in [there.]”728

Further changes were planned for the Hospital Wing later in 1951. The large open ward, 

known as “A” Ward, presented a problem from both the medical and custodial perspectives. 

“[T]he necessity for confi ning the number of inmates in one ward, including such problems 

as sex off enders and other diffi cult cases” made it diffi cult to treat or supervise inmate patients appropriately.729 By July 1952 the project to subdivide the ward into six smaller threebed wards was underway and was expected to be complete within several months. Once the 

project was complete, the new arrangement was expected to “provide adequate control and 

supervision of in-patients who formerly congregated in the large ward for various illicit 

purposes.”730

By the end of July 1952 the dividing walls in the large ward were complete and part of the 

plumbing was installed.731 Wards B and C were not upgraded at this time, and the 1952 Annual 

Report noted that they were “without adequate sanitary facilities.” The Chief Medical Offi cer 

recommended installing plumbing in these wards, arguing that patients would receive “much 

more adequate care” and corrections and medical staff would be “less burdened” if plumbing 

were available.732

In the mid-1950s, buzzers and bedside call buttons used in the ward were declared surplus.733

A new call system for the smaller three-man wards installed in the early 1950s was probably 

developed after the renovation. 

Another source of concern in the Hospital Wing was the “rather disgraceful ‘cage’ set up,” 

which served as the psychiatric unit for the facility. In his annual report for fi scal year 1952, 

Chief Medical Offi cer Milton Meltzer wrote, “Reconstruction of this unit into adequate 

modern psychiatric cells is absolutely imperative,” and warned, “I believe that the institution 

is vulnerable to scandal or serious diffi culty if inmates are to be kept in such antiquated 

facilities.”734

727 P. Madigan to C. Kelley, Sr. Architect, BoP, April 9, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03.

728 Robert Guilford Oral History.

729 E. Swope to Director, BoP, September 5, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 1.

730 Milton Meltzer, Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz, to Surgeon General, July 17, 1952, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

731 Robert Barnes to Dr. Krumbiegel, July 25, 1952, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 1.

732 Milton Meltzer, Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz, to Surgeon General, July 17, 1952, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

733 Report of Excess Personal property, April 12, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 5.

734 Milton Meltzer, Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz to Surgeon General, July 17, 1952, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

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154

As it stood, the psychiatric unit consisted of “three wire-mesh strip cell ‘cages’ in a small room 

in the hospital unit.” Figure H16 illustrates one of these cells. Meltzer described the serious 

disadvantages of the existing psychiatric cells: “These rooms are without sanitary facilities 

and an extremely complicated custodial procedure is involved in opening the doors to feed 

or care for inmates confi ned there. At times it has been physically impossible to care for disturbed inmates in these room and we have been obliged to use closed isolation cells in the 

Special Treatment Unit part of the cell block to house them.”735

Furthermore, the doors from two of the cages opened into A Ward, which presented “diffi cult 

and hazardous situations to offi cers and inmates when it is necessary to gain access to these 

‘cages’ through ‘A’ Ward.”736 Plans developed by the Bureau of Prisons architect provided for 

only two psychiatric or “observation” wards and placed the new cells on the west exterior 

wall. The architect explained the reduction of cells from three to two: “I think the new facility has so much to off er in suitability of housing, humanitarian needs and observation, [that] I 

think you will be agreeable to it as a future alteration when funds are available.”737

Due to a lack of funding, however, the new restraint cells were not constructed at the time 

A Ward was renovated. In May 1955, the project was put on the “Special Repair” list, in the 

hopes that funding would become available.738 By the end of the year, plans were made and 

supplies were being ordered for the new cells. The walls of the cells and a new shower stall 

were constructed of 5  ̋ × 12 ̋ structural glazed facing tile, and glass blocks for the window 

openings were solid 5 ̋ × 5 ̋ × 21⁄2 ̋ units manufactured by Pittsburgh Corning Corporation.739

Flushing rim fl oor drains, also called “oriental toilets,” were installed in both Restraint 

Rooms. Both had fl ushing controls installed outside of the cell. The drain in room number 1, 

however, was installed for “possible future use” and was covered with a metal plate and not 

activated. In this cell a cast aluminum toilet was installed over the plugged fl oor drain.740

The fl oors in the new cells were raised using concrete blocks, and a new concrete partition 

was installed between A Ward and the old strip cells. The plaster wall on the south side of the 

strip cells was also removed in preparation for construction of the new Restraint Rooms (fi gure H13). Metal fl ooring for the cells was also ready for installation. The project was delayed 

in July 1956, as some of the materials had not arrived. 

A toilet was installed at this time in Robert Stroud’s solitary cell on the west side of the wing. 

Stroud had been removed to the Hospital Wing in 1948 for custodial reasons. It was hoped 

that the toilet would be of advantage not only to Stroud, but also to Hospital medical staff .741

735 Ibid.

736 E. Swope to Director, BoP, September 5, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 1.

737 Robert Barnes, Sr. Architect, BoP, to E. Swope, October 8, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

738 Mr. Barnes to Mr. Bennett, May 6, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 1.

739 Charles Kelley, Architect, to Warden Heritage, McNeil Island, Washington, December 28, 

1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

740 Ibid.

741 P. Madigan to Mr. Barnes, Sr. Architect, BoP, July 11, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.
155

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

In 1955 hospital Operating Room facilities were inspected by representatives from the U.S. 

Public Health Service. The inspection came at the request of Dr. K. Nelson, medical offi cer in 

charge at the USPHS hospital in San Francisco, and was held so that USPHS representatives 

could make recommendations concerning compliance with national fi re safety regulations 

for hospital operating rooms.742 Fire safety in general, and suppression of static electricity in 

particular, were of special concern in operating rooms because of the extreme fl ammability of 

anesthetics in use during this period.743

The inspector found that the Operating Room was supplied by both alternating and direct 

current and that the Operating Room fl oor was covered with asphalt tile rather than conductive fl ooring. The Operating Room did not have a “suitable overhead surgical lighting fi xture,” 

nor were the ceiling lights enclosed or explosion-proof. The inspector preferred tile wainscoting in the surgical area, but that was not required for fi re safety.744

The recommended tile fl ooring and wall tile for the Surgery (Operating Room) and adjoining 

Sterilizing Room were not funded by the Bureau of Prisons. Black conductive linoleum fl ooring was an approved and “perfectly adequate” replacement.745 The invitation to bid on installation of the fl ooring and a 6-inch cove base in the Operating Room and Sterilizing Room was 

sent out in March 1956, when the fl ooring and other recommended upgrades to the operating 

area were funded by the Bureau of Prisons.746

In 1950 “soda acid” fi re extinguishers used in the Hospital were replaced by Crusader-brand 

21⁄2-gallon “Foamite” fi re extinguishers.747

Funding for steel shelving for the Linen Room and the Surgery was approved in September 

1955 at a cost of $658.748 By this time, surgical storage cabinets and much of the surgical furniture was considered “very old and to some extent not serviceable.”749 This equipment was 

probably transferred from the army in 1934. When the prison closed in 1963 old army equipment such as white enameled tables, bedside stands, instrument cabinets, and operators’ 

stools was still in the Hospital.750

Equipment and supplies stored in the cabinets varied. In the Operating Room, supplies included forceps, scissors, retractors, clamps, and needles. A hammer, screwdriver, pliers, 

awl, chisel, scraper, stone, can opener, and dental knife were stored in the Drug Room, or 

742 W. Bellamy, Public Buildings Superintendent, USPHS Hospital to Warden Madigan, September 

29, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 7. 

743 See Marianne Bankert, Watchful Care.

744 W. Bellamy, Public Buildings Superintendent, USPHS Hospital to Warden Madigan, September 

29, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 7.

745 Robert Barnes, Senior Architect, to Warden Madigan, December 22, 1955, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

746 Chief Clerk, Alcatraz, to R. Meier, Budget Offi cer, and R. Barnes, Senior Architect, BoP, March 

29, 1956 and Invitation to Bid, March 8, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 21.

747 Item Justifi cation, 1951 Equipment Budget, May 5, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

748 A. Kaeppel, Chief Clerk, to R. Meier, Budget Offi cer, BoP, September 14, 1955 and attachment, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

749 Annual Report for the Fiscal Year 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 21.

750 List of Hospital Equipment, May 15, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 7.

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156

Pharmacy. Orthopedic supplies included more forceps, drills, saws, chisels, and bone pins, all 

stored in the Operating Room. Dental supplies stored in the dental clinic included bone chisels, rasps, pluggers, carvers, scalers, mouth mirrors, scissors, forceps, and metal aspirators. 

Hypodermic needles and syringes were stored in surgical storage cabinets.751

An emergency mobile operating light unit was purchased in 1958, and was installed and operational by 1959. This unit was supplemented by stationary emergency light units mounted in 

the hallway and the patient cell area in the Hospital and by other units mounted throughout 

the main prison building.752 The emergency light unit was in good enough condition to be 

sent to Marion Penitentiary after Alcatraz closed.753

A new scrub sink was installed in the surgery in fi scal year 1960, and two stainless steel 

“mayo” instrument stands and one irrigator stand were received in April 1960. These acquisitions were considered “very helpful in our eff orts to upgrade the surgery clinic.”754

In December 1961 the Medical Department received an operating table from the USPHS hospital in San Francisco, which transferred the Shampaine Company table upon receiving new 

operating tables. The “used but very good replacement operating table” replaced an old table 

for which there were no records. The old table was considered obsolete and was surveyed.755

A wheeled, height-adjustable stretcher was received from the Simmons Company in summer 

1962.It replaced an old stretcher that was in poor condition and was to be “surveyed and 

junked.”756 The new stretcher was in good enough condition to be considered for transfer to 

Marion Penitentiary in 1963.757

In early 1958 the windows on the west side of the Hospital were removed and replaced with 

glass brick. Metal straps securing bars at the windows were also installed at this time. The new 

opaque windows “eliminated all view of the bay,” and the chief medical offi cer felt that “some 

therapeutic value was lost.”758 One of the Medical Department’s stated goals for fi scal year 

1963 was “the replacement of the glass block with clear glass windows on the city (southwest) 

side of the hospital.”759 The Hospital was painted in 1959–1960.760

751 List of material in the hospital, January 16, 1963, and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

752 J. Casey, Chief MTA, Alcatraz, to Miss Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, August 7 1961, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

753 J. Casey, Chief MTA, Alcatraz, to Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, January 14, 1961, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

754 Annual Report for Fiscal Year 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

755 J. Casey, Chief MTA, Alcatraz, to Miss Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, December 5, 

1961 and December 14, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

756 Receiving Report, August 20, 1962, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park 

Archives collections; J. Casey, Chief MTA, Alcatraz, to Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, 

September 7, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

757 J. Casey, Alcatraz to Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, January 14, 1963, [G-M] Surplus 

Property Closing of Institution, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

758 Annual Report for the Fiscal Year 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 21; Telegram Alcatraz to Mr. Alexander, BoP, February 21, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

759 Annual Narrative Medical Report—Fiscal Year 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21.

760 Annual Report for Fiscal Year 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.
157

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

During the 1959 Christmas season a small Christmas tree was set up in the Hospital, “which 

was no doubt appreciated by those patients who were confi ned there.”761

Prisoners wore two-piece white nainsook pajamas, paid for by prison maintenance funds, 

while in the Hospital. Surgical gowns, laboratory coats, and other hospital linens were furnished by the Public Health Service.762 The Medical Department ordered operating coats, 

operating gowns, operating trousers, and dental smocks from Federal Prison Industries.763

Federal Prison Industries also supplied the Public Health Service personnel with their uniforms, insignia, and shoes, as well as linen hampers and bags.764 The Bureau of Prisons provided restraint apparatus such as straightjackets, wristlets, anklets, belts, and sheets.765

The army transferred most of the Hospital offi ce supplies to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934, including wooden armchairs, eight-day wall clocks, oak fl at-top offi ce desks, wastebaskets, fi les, 

bookcases, fi ling cabinets, and a typewriter.766 The wooden desks and tables were refi nished 

by the Prison Industries furniture shop during fi scal year 1960.767

In summer 1962 fi ve aluminum offi ce chairs, two typewriter stands, and one steel conference 

desk with a plastic top were transferred to the Hospital Wing.768 When the penitentiary closed 

in 1963, tables, wooden offi ce chairs, wooden desks, card fi les, metal cabinets, and sectional 

metal shelves were on hand in the Hospital Wing, in addition to two coat racks, two safes, and 

one wooden bench from the Waiting Room (fi gure H5). 

By 1938 the chief medical offi cer ordered more than $500 worth of Ediphone dictating equipment and two nonportable Underwood typewriters.769 In 1955 a Royal typewriter was transferred from the Warden’s Offi ce to the Hospital.770 A Royal typewriter received in 1954 was 

removed to a storeroom in September 1961.771

Three new Royal-brand standard typewriters were purchased in summer 1962, and the more 

than $600 purchase price was slightly off set by trade-in allowances received for two L. C. 

Smith typewriters and one old Underwood.772

761 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, January 4, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 16.

762 Justin Fuller, Medical Director, BoP, to Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz, March 6, 1942 and 

Order form, October 4, 1940, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

763 Purchase Order, June 14, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

764 Purchase Order, January 10, 1961 and Purchase Order, February 17, 1961, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

765 Elizabeth Shaw, Materiel Offi cer, BoP, to Warden, Alcatraz, June 21, 1955, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 14.

766 W. L. Treadway, Assistant Surgeon General, USPHS, to Director, BoP, March 9, 1934 and 

C. Manly, Colonel, Medical Corps to G-4 [Army], January 22, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930-1937, 4-49-0.

767 Annual Report for Fiscal Year 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.

768 “To Hospital” list, July 17, 1962, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park Archives 

collections.

769 W. Hammack, Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden, June 29, 1938 and attachments, and 

L. Mills, Chief Clerk to Director, BoP, November 28, 1938, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, 

E, & M Files,, Box 6.

770 Major Equipment Record, December 1, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 7.

771 Major Equipment Record, September 14, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 7.

772 Purchase Order, July 10, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

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158

By the mid-1940s one USPHS medical offi cer was stationed at Alcatraz, supported by four 

full-time MTAs. The MTAs were described as “well qualifi ed in technical and nursing duties,” and some of them were former chief pharmacist mates in the U.S. Navy. Because there 

was only one medical offi cer on the island and constant medical coverage was required, his 

leave and travel off the island eventually became very restricted. To allow the physician more 

freedom, the decision was made to allow one of the MTAs to assume responsibility for medical care in his absence. In case of an emergency, additional medical care was provided by staff 

from the Marine Hospital in San Francisco.773

As noted above, although all staff at Alcatraz—medical and otherwise—were male, on at least 

one occasion two female nurses accompanied a surgeon from the Marine Hospital on the 

mainland to assist with an inmate operation. 

Beginning in April 1948, Warden Swope allowed the Dental Department to hire an inmate 

dental technician. It was hoped that with his assistance, the part-time dentist could reduce the 

backlog in denture work and prophylactic dental care.774

As described in the “Annual Report of Medical Activities” for the fi scal year ending June 30, 

1948, sick call was held every afternoon, supervised by the Chief Medical Offi cer. An average 

of 70–80 prescriptions was fi lled daily, and the clinic was “kept quite busy during the day, as 

the outpatient department takes care of all X-rays, physiotherapy, E. E. N. T. [eye, ear, nose, 

and throat] diseases, Genito-urinary procedures, etc.”775

The Annual Report for fi scal year 1951 reported that 30–40 inmates received medical attention daily, though only 8–10 of these were seen by the Chief Medical Offi cer. The outpatient 

department continued to perform X-rays and minor surgery and provide physiotherapy 

and other special treatments. The department also prepared and dispensed prescriptions, 

although signifi cant changes were apparently made during 1951–52. According to the Annual 

Report:

A most striking change in the whole institutional atmosphere has been eff ected by establishing control of sedatives and narcotics. Compared to the previous fi scal year our use 

of narcotics has been cut by approximately two-thirds. Barbiturates are no longer issued 

to the cell house and are only rarely used on hospitalized patients. All of this has resulted 

in a decrease in sick call and hospitalization, elimination of gambling and conniving for 

drugs, diminution of disturbances resulting from drug intoxication and a saving of funds 

for more appropriate medications.

Medical stores were moved from a warehouse on the dock in January 1952 and stored in a 

room in the Hospital Wing.776

773 Director, USPHS, to J. Johnston, July 24, 1946, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 9.

774 [Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz] to Surgeon General, Annual Report of Medical Activities for 

Fiscal Year ending June 30, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

775 Ibid.

776 Milton Meltzer, Chief Medical Offi cer, Alcatraz to Surgeon General, July 17, 1952, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.
159

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Administration Wing, Second Floor

Overview, Disciplinary Barracks Period

The second fl oor of the Administration Wing held an Assembly Room and offi ces. In a 1908 

plan for the area, constructing quartermaster Lt. Col. Ruben Turner provided for a Library, 

Telegraph Offi ce, Printing Room, Records Room, NCOs Offi ce, and Clerks’ Offi ce. The historic structures report notes that physical evidence indicates most if not all of these partitions 

were constructed as planned (fi gure BP1).777

By 1930 the prison Library was positioned at the east end of the wing, with parole offi ces 

nearby. At this point, there was an Assembly Hall measuring roughly 50 ́ × 70 ́ located in the 

center of the wing. This room had a stage at the east end and a stepped seating platform down 

the center. A Projection Room was located at the west end of the wing, behind the seating. 

During the military period, the room was used as an Assembly Hall for all prison entertainments and served as the chapel for Sunday worship services. The Chaplain’s offi ces were in 

the northwest corner of the wing, adjacent to the Assembly Hall. A long narrow room for the 

Dental Offi ce was carved out of the southwest corner. One stairway led from the southwest 

corner of the Cell House directly to the Chaplain’s Offi ce, and another ran from the ground 

fl oor of the Administration Wing to the Assembly Hall (fi gure BP4). 

Three wooden bridges connected the second fl oor to the second tier of cells during the military period, but when the Bureau of Prisons took over Alcatraz in 1934, they were removed 

and the resulting openings were fi lled in with concrete. The stairway near the Chaplain’s 

Offi ce had been removed by November 1933, and an engineer’s report recommended that the 

door into the Chaplain’s Offi ce be fi lled in also.778

The Dental Offi ce was moved to the Hospital Wing soon after the transfer. The Library was 

moved to the ground fl oor of A-block in 1942, and in 1960 a new correctional offi cers’ Dining 

Room was installed where the old Library had been.

Library, Disciplinary Barracks Period

During the disciplinary barracks period, the Library contained about 11,000 books, more 

than half of them fi ction. By 1925, many of the books were outdated and had “little or no appeal to the present-day youthful reader.” Agencies such as the YMCA, Red Cross, the San 

Francisco Community Service Organization, Salvation Army, Jewish Welfare Board, and 

Catholic Ladies’ Aid Society frequently provided books and magazines to the post Library. 

Books and magazines were issued twice weekly to prisoners, so more than 2,000 books and 

nearly the same number of magazines were issued each month.779

By 1926 some of the outdated books had been disposed of, but the Library’s fi ction section 

remained weak. The YMCA continued to donate all the magazines, and circulation of these 

777 HSR, 44–45.

778 Robert C. Bunge, Prison Equipment Research Bureau to Sanford Bates, Director, BoP, November 17, 1933, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 

4-49-0.

779 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

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remained high. The 1926 Annual Report noted that inmates showed “a keen appetite for the 

stirring tales of adventure of such writers as Zane Grey, Rex Beach, James Oliver Curwood, 

and others of the same type.”780

Prisoners were encouraged to use the Library and “read good books during your spare time.” 

Books were to remain in cells and were not to be passed between cells. School books were 

issued separately to inmates attending classes.781

One prisoner janitor was assigned to the Library. He served as the librarian, and was also 

responsible for the policing of the Library and the Parole Offi ces. He was supervised by the 

assistant to the Chaplain.782

The Library was open to offi cers, members of offi cers’ families, civilians, and enlisted personnel, all of whom could check out a book any day of the week from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. 

By 1930, prisoners could use the Library only on Saturday afternoons.783

When the army turned over the Main Prison Building to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934, the 

Library was in good condition and contained four electric lights. The entire building was 

heated with steam.784

Assembly Hall, Disciplinary Barracks Period

Motion picture shows and other types of entertainment proved that “an eff ort [was] made to 

relieve the monotony of confi nement” at Alcatraz. In 1925, prisoners enjoyed a full schedule 

of recreational activities each week: “Motion Pictures are shown twice a week and in addition one vaudeville entertainment or concert weekly. Community singing forms part of the 

Sunday evening programme. The week’s programme is so arranged that, with the lectures on 

Automobile Engineering, something in the way of recreation or education is available in the 

Assembly Hall every night, Saturday excepted.”785

By the following year, entertainment had been cut back to just one movie each week and a 

vaudeville show every other week. Special entertainments were provided at holidays, and indoor baseball and other athletic competitions were held regularly.786

The San Francisco Film Board of Trade provided fi rst-run motion pictures, allowing prison 

administration “freedom in booking” so that “objectionable” fi lms could be avoided. Groups 

such as the San Francisco Community Service Organization, the YMCA, the Jewish Welfare 

780 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1926, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

781 Regulations and Information for the United States Disciplinary Barracks Alcatraz, California, 

For the guidance of General Prisoners Confi ned Therein, July 1, 1928, GGNRA Park Archives 

collections.

782 Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, GGNRA Park 

Archives collections.

783 Post Regulations, 1932, Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, Jack W. 

Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

784 Building Book, Alcatraz, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2. 

785 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

786 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1926, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.
161

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Board, and the San Francisco Olympic Club presented entertainment programs, and prisoner 

boxing matches and athletic competitions during the Christmas holidays added to the “general plan of wholesome recreation of mind and body.”787

By 1930 the schedule of entertainments had expanded again, with motion pictures shown on 

Friday and Sunday evenings and vaudeville shows on Tuesday evenings. Lunch was provided 

for vaudeville performers, and was served in the Library.788

When attending shows in the Assembly Hall, prisoners were required to remain quiet, and 

at religious services, to pay “strict attention.” Smoking, chewing, reading, spitting on the 

fl oor, and shuffl ing feet were not allowed. Prisoners were not to sit on books, or use them “as 

cushions.”789

Members of the prison orchestra played for all entertainments and sat in the fi rst row of 

the hall. Prisoners marched to the Assembly Hall by tier (row of cells) and were seated by 

tier. Overseers rotated the schedule so that the same tier did not always sit in the front rows. 

Prisoners confi ned to “Protection Row” were always seated in the rear center rows.790

Families who lived on the island were also welcome at these shows, and a former resident recalled sitting in the same room as the prisoners to watch orchestras, bands, stage plays, selections from opera companies, and other entertainments. She appreciated watching the acts for 

free, rather than paying to see them in San Francisco.791

The Assembly Hall was also used for prison visitors. As described above, a table was set up in 

the Assembly Hall on visitors’ day. On the Sunday designated, relatives of fi rst class prisoners 

were allowed to sit across the table from the prisoner, accompanied by a guard. Visitors could 

bring tobacco and reading material for prisoners, but it was checked at the fi rst-fl oor main 

gate and not given to the prisoner until after the visitor had gone.792 Prisoners could embrace 

or shake hands with family members, and children were allowed in the room, although the 

army did not encourage visitors.793

The prisoner janitor assigned to the Assembly Hall was also the motion picture operator or projectionist. By the early 1930s he operated two Simplex projection head machines794 and had two 

assistants available to him on movie nights. The janitor was responsible for cleaning the Assembly 

Hall and the Chaplain’s Offi ce. His work was supervised by the Chaplain’s assistant.795

787 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

788 No. 52, October 27, 1930, Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 

13, 1930, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

789 Regulations and Information for the United States Disciplinary Barracks Alcatraz, California, 

For the guidance of General Prisoners Confi ned Therein, July 1, 1928, GGNRA Park Archives 

collections.

790 No. 52, October 27, 1930, Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 

13, 1930, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

791 Arthur Dudgeon interview.

792 No. 65, November 13, 1930, Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 13, 1930, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

793 Arthur Dudgeon interview.

794 Receiving Report, June 16, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 15.

795 No. 36, October 28, 1930, Maj. W. Stewart, Military Prison Instructions (Alcatraz), November 

13, 1930, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

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When the army turned over Alcatraz to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934, the Assembly Hall or 

“amusement room” contained 60 electric lights and was reported in good condition. Seating 

capacity was listed as 500,796 which must have been quite a crowd.

Chaplain’s Offi ce, Disciplinary Barracks Period

The 1930 Cell House fl oor plan illustrated in fi gure BP4 shows the Chaplain using two offi ces in 

the northwest corner of the second fl oor of the Administration Wing. The 1925 Annual Report

noted that the Chaplain kept regular offi ce hours and that his duties included interviewing new 

prisoners and those about to be released. He contacted welfare agencies on behalf of prisoners near release, and located housing and jobs for them. Protestant religious services, “liberal in 

spirit,” were held weekly for “the benefi t of the entire command.” Catholic services were held 

every other Sunday, and on Wednesday evenings the Salvation Army conducted a service.797

The Chaplain’s duties were outlined in the 1930 Post Regulations. In addition to interviewing 

prisoners, the Chaplain also served as the Post School Offi cer, Post Librarian, Post Recreation 

Offi cer, and Post Athletic Offi cer.798

Library, Federal Penitentiary Period

The army transferred approximately 9,000 books to the Bureau of Prisons in 1934.799 Alcatraz 

administration then purchased nearly 1,000 additional books during the penitentiary’s fi rst 

year of operation. The institution also subscribed to “a number of the best standard magazines,” which were routed from cell to cell to interested prisoners.800 The warden commented, 

“It would be diffi cult to overestimate the important part that the library plays in the general 

welfare of the inmate body. A large part of every day is spent in cells, and a great deal of this 

time is used in reading.”801 Library circulation increased during the 1930s, and by 1938 a printed library catalog was distributed to each cell.802 The Library remained in the Administration 

Wing until 1941, when it was relocated to the south end of D-block.

Warden Johnston was authorized to spend $60 for magazine subscriptions for fi scal year 1937 

and was allowed $300 to purchase new library books. The Bureau of Prisons forwarded a list 

of suggested books for prison libraries, but allowed individual institutions to purchase their 

own books based on the recommendations of the Chaplain. The new Alcatraz administration 

ordered 21 reference works, more than 500 nonfi ction works, and nearly 400 new novels. The 

same year, acquisition of typewriters for the Library and for the Educational Director’s Offi ce 

was approved.803

796 Building Book, Alcatraz, NARA, RG 77, entry 393, Box 2.

797 Col. W. M. Morrow, Commandant, Annual Report of the Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925, courtesy personal collection of John Martini.

798 Post Regulations, 1932, Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, Jack W. 

Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

799 A partial list of these books is located in “Exhibit ‘D’ Alphabetical List . . . Books in post 

Library Alcatraz ... Declared Surplus ...” folder, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 15.

800 Federal Offenders 1934–1935, 63.

801 Federal Offenders 1936–1937.

802 Federal Offenders 1938, 99.

803 F. L. Bixby, Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Johnston, May 13, 1936, and Invitations to Bid, 

May 4 and May 12, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 

1930–1937, 4-49-1-25.
163

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

As mentioned above, the Chaplain was in charge of the Library and had some infl uence in 

selecting reading materials. Chaplain Byron Eshelman reviewed the religious literature available in the Library in early 1947. He counted 300 books on religion or “of a religious nature,” 

but pointed out that “none of these books circulate to any degree.”804 The Library had taken 

the periodical Christian Century by subscription, but let the subscription expire. Two inmates 

subscribed to the magazine, and their copies were circulated by the Library when they were 

fi nished with them.

Inmates were also allowed to subscribe to weekly news magazines such as Time, Newsweek, 

and The Saturday Evening Post.

805 By the mid-1940s convicts continued to read current news 

magazines such as Life and Time, but any references to prisoners, prisons, or prisoners’ families were cut out before the inmates saw the magazines.806

Most inmates preferred fi ction, especially “superfi cial, sensual and materialistic” works that 

provided “something of a temporary escape from reality.” The Bible was read “as extensively 

as any religious publication in the institution,” and inmates could keep copies of the Bible in 

their cells indefi nitely.807

Chaplain Eshelman suggested acquiring “psychological books with religious implications” for 

the Library, as well as several Bible commentaries and Bible dictionaries. He pointed out that 

the religious section of the Library had many obsolete books, some dating to the 19th century, 

that would never be read.808

An estimated 200 library books were destroyed or burned in the May 1946 riot in D-block. 

(See above for more on D-block and the riot.) By 1947 more than 4,000 books were stored in 

the “discard store-room behind the Chapel,” an area once designated as a Parole Offi ce or 

as the Chaplain’s Offi ce (fi gure BP4). Library record-keeping had gotten slack during the 

war years because, “lacking the supervision of a resident Chaplain-Librarian,” inmate library workers did not keep accurate accounts. A 1947 inventory reported 9,243 books in the 

Library, although holdings were constantly updated.809 In early 1950 a collection of more than 

400 late 19th- and early 20th-century works of fi ction was sold or otherwise discarded.810

The Library was moved to the south end of D-block as part of the 1941 renovation of that 

area. At the time, there was some discussion between James Bennett, Director of the Bureau 

of Prisons, and Warden Johnston as to the ultimate purpose of the Library. The Director was 

“whole-heartedly convinced that plenty of good reading will do much to mitigate disciplinary 

problems and keep the inmates on a level mental keel” and felt inmates should visit the Library. 

804 Byron Eshelman to J. Johnston and others, February 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

805 Miriam Marshall, Librarian, BoP, to J. Johnston, May 15, 1934 and attachment, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-25.

806 Irving Levinson interview.

807 Byron Eshelman to J. Johnston and others, February 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

808 Ibid.

809 Institution Library Report and Inventory, April 4, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21.

810 E. Swope to Director, BoP, February 23, 1950, and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 13.

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164

Warden Johnston, on the other hand, apparently felt that the Library was simply a place to store 

and organize reading material that would be distributed to convicts in their cells.811

The Director encouraged the setup of a Library where inmates could browse and “make 

selections which intrigue their interest and imagination.” To his mind, the design and furnishings of the new Library should support its function as a reading room. He insisted that the 

Library “could be made into a reading room for selected inmates at particular times under the 

supervision of the cell-house offi cer . . . . The arrangement of the shelving [plan] was made 

so that [the Library] could have the maximum number of books available and accessible for 

shelf selection.” High book shelves were not to be placed in the center of the room so the area 

could be easily supervised “when the library is in use as a reading room.”812

Specifi cally, the Director and the warden disagreed as to the use of tables and magazine racks 

in the Library. The Director felt that the use of quality shelving, library tables, and magazine 

racks supported the idea of a reading room, and nearly begged Warden Johnston to “please 

give it a trial.” He also suggested that Henry Cassler, the current Protestant Chaplain, be stationed in the Library during recreation periods and at other times when selected inmates 

would be allowed to use the Library.813

At this point, the Chaplain requested a distinct offi ce area within the new Library. It was suggested that the south entrance into D-block be cut off , and “the wire partition . . . form Mr. 

Cassler’s offi ce.” Director Bennett did not like this idea, as it eff ectively blocked an emergency 

entrance and exit to the block, and suggested partitioning an area in the “opposite corner,” 

probably the southwest corner of the block, for “a little private offi ce” for Cassler.814 The 

Director was eventually overruled, and fi gure L1 shows the Chaplain in his offi ce near the entrance to D-block. (See below for more on the Chaplain’s Offi ce.) 

Warden Johnston eventually agreed to implement Director Bennett’s plans, and began ordering birch and fi r shelving and tables from Federal Prison Industries in spring 1942. The new 

Library required nine sections of shelving for nonfi ction books, seven sections for fi ction, one 

magazine rack, two library tables, and six shelves. A librarian’s desk and chairs were also ordered.815 Period photographs show, however, that contrary to plans, high shelves were placed 

in the center of the room (fi gures L2, L3, L4, and L5). 

In October 1952 a Royal typewriter was acquired for use by the parole offi cer working in the 

Library. A second Royal machine was transferred to the Library in late 1955, and a third was 

transferred during the mid-1950s for use by an inmate typist.816

811 Director, BoP, to J. Johnston, November 6, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03,Box 6, and Director, BoP, to J. Johnston, February 13, 1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

812 Director, BoP, to J. Johnston, November 6, 1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 6.

813 Director, BoP, to J. Johnston, February 13, 1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 3.

814 Ibid.

815 J. Johnston to James Bennett, Director, BoP, March 6, 1942 and Nelson Davis, Furniture Designer, BoP, to J. Johnston, April 9, 1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 3.

816 Major Equipment Records, October 1952, December 1955, and December 195[?], NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.
165

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Regardless of the Director’s desire for a Library serving as a limited reading room, throughout the federal penitentiary period convicts ordered books from the Library that were then 

delivered to their cells. Inmate assistants distributed library books to cells and assisted with 

administrative responsibilities. In 1937, four inmate assistants circulated books and magazines 

under the supervision of the Chaplain.817 By 1962 inmates still consulted the “mimeographed 

catalog of the 10,000–12,000 books,” then fi lled out an order form and sent it to the Library. 

An inmate clerk then fi lled the orders, and delivered the books to the cells.818

An inmate described how the system worked:

You had a library card . . . full of numbers. And you was supposed to keep 20 numbers on 

there. The numbers would correspond with the titles of the book [in the catalog] and each 

day you put your card up there when you go to work and one of the guys that worked in 

there would come and pick the cards up and then they’d go in there and they’d look and 

try to get the book, the number one choice. If they couldn’t, they take number two choice 

and deliver them to your cell.819

A mimeograph machine was located in the Library in 1961 and possibly earlier, but in 

December of that year the mimeograph machine was transferred to a section of A-block used 

by Culinary Department administration.820 (See above for more on A-block.) 

The staff member referred to as “librarian” in charge in 1956 suggested acquiring inexpensive 

paperbacks and applying “a stiff outer binder” to the books at Alcatraz as a way to save money. By that time the Library appeared run down, and an assessment was to be made “to see if 

we can improve its general appearance and condition.”821

Alcatraz administrators put in a request for new library shelving in the late 1950s, and were 

allotted money for the purpose in June 1961. By this time, Warden Madigan preferred new 

wooden shelves, as they were more attractive than the steel he had originally requested. It 

was estimated that six high shelves attached to the outside walls and 14 shorter center sections would provide enough space to house the 15,000 volumes usually maintained in the 

Library.822

Madigan attached two photographs, fi gures L4 and L5, to prove that the shelving in place was 

“very unattractive.” In addition, the existing shelving prevented “adequate supervision of the 

library inmate detail,”823 probably because of its height.

817 Wayne Hunter, Chaplain to The Federal Council Committee on Prison Chaplains, January 

6, 1937 and April 7, 1937, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 

1930–1937, 4-49-3-10.

818 C. Eckenrode, Superintendent, Vocational Education and Training, BoP, to H. Moeller, Assistant Director, BoP, June 5, 1962, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 6.

819 Robert Guilford Oral History.

820 Custodial Report for Month of December [1961], NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 19.

821 Budget Planning Committee Meeting minutes, April 16, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03. It appears that the Librarian referred to in this document is not the 

Chaplain.

822 P. Madigan to J. Sugarman, Budget Offi cer, BoP, June 21, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

823 Ibid.

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166

The new shelves were manufactured by Federal Prison Industries at McNeil Island 

Penitentiary and were delivered to Alcatraz in early December 1961. The 1961–62 holiday season delayed their installation, but by spring they were in use and “greatly improved” the appearance of the Library. Library attendants were now able to “catalog the books most 

effi ciently and honor inmate reading requests more promptly.”824

In preparation for the institution’s closing in early 1963, thousands of library books were slated to be burned or destroyed. In addition, furnishings such as a 12-foot-long oak library table, 

a wooden fi le cabinet, an oak desk chair, an offi ce swivel chair, and a Wilcox-brand portable 

record player were determined to be “worn beyond repair” and surveyed.825 The remainder 

of the library at Alcatraz, along with the shelving, was transferred to Marion Penitentiary.826

Surplus library property remaining in the Library at closing included two upholstered wood 

armchairs, metal fi le cabinets, wood bookcases, straight-back and swivel chairs, 10 wood 

desks, wood and metal typing desks, four library tables, “old fashioned” coat racks, one of the 

old 10-man mess tables, and card index stands.827 Figure L7 was taken shortly after closing 

and probably shows this surplus furniture stored in the Library.

Chaplain’s Offi ce, Federal Penitentiary Period

By early 1947, the Chaplain may have been using two offi ces, one of which is known to have 

been located in the Library at the south end of D-block on the ground fl oor. The Library arrangement was less than satisfactory for Byron Eshelman, the Protestant Chaplain at the time. 

He noted that the inmates were locked in the Library at certain times, and “the chaplain does 

not always fi nd it expedient or effi cient to go in the library offi ce when the library gate is offi cially open or to come out when the library gate is offi cially closed.” 

If he didn’t leave before the gate closed, however, the Chaplain could anticipate a long wait 

before he could inform a correctional offi cer of “his wish to be liberated to go about his 

work.” He suggested a buzzer be installed so that he could get the attention of the Cell House 

offi cer. As matters stood, “the otherwise most satisfactory offi ce is given only scanty use because of the inconvenience discovered upon being locked in.”828

The Chaplain may also have used an offi ce near the chapel on the second fl oor—either the 

former Army Chaplain’s Offi ce in the northwest corner of the wing, or one of the former 

Parole Offi ces east of the chapel, behind the altar (fi gure BP4). A former correctional offi cer 

recalled: 

824 Custodial Report for Month of December [1961] and Custodial Report for the Month of 

March [1962], NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 19.

825 Reports of Survey, October 31, 1962; November 8, 1962; November 13, 1962; November 

19, 1962; December 19, 1962, and February 1, 1963, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz Collection, 

GGNRA Park Archives collections.

826 H. Moeller, Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Blackwell, Alcatraz, February 6, 1963, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

827 List, Library [1963], NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

828 Byron Eshelman to J. Johnston and others, February 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.
167

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

If the Chaplain wanted to interview an inmate, he could use the library or . . . if the Chaplain wanted it, he would go up . . . the Chaplain had a little offi ce in back of the chapel itself where he could interview them. Of course, there was an offi cer present at all times.829

In July 1949, Eshelman commented on “the continuing disadvantage of not having a telephone in the chaplain’s offi ce.” It is unclear whether he refers to the Library offi ce or to an 

offi ce on the second fl oor. The phone had been authorized 15 months previously, but had not 

yet been installed. The Chaplain’s Offi ce was “isolated from all other offi ces of the institution,” 

and the lack of telephone made “the work more burdensome and effi ciency less.”830 The following month “the long awaited offi ce telephone” was installed and the offi ce was repainted. 

Eshelman now felt the offi ce provided “ a most comfortable and convenient arrangement.”831

As discussed above, the Chaplain’s duties were many and diverse. During February 1948 

Eshelman attended a two-day pastoral conference, graded inmate papers, mimeographed educational forms, cared for the Library, hosted visitors, consulted offi cials, wrote letters, and ordered supplies.832 A couple of months later, Eshelman gave a talk to a training class, and handled 

some musical transcriptions.833 The Chaplain also oversaw correspondence courses off ered to 

inmates by the Bureau of Prisons, the University of California, and other institutions.834

In spring 1949, Eshelman oversaw shipment of selected inmate art to the Bureau of Prisons 

in Washington, D.C., where it was to be shown in an exhibition open to the public.835 On 

September 29 and 30 of that year, the “Alcatraz Art Project,” also spearheaded by Eshelman, 

was on display at Union Square in San Francisco.836

Eshelman soon established a discussion group held immediately after Sunday services. Six 

inmates initially joined the discussion, which focused on revealing “both intellectually and 

emotionally the nature of the egocentric deviation which lies back of all problem behavior in 

ourselves.” The class was not directly associated with religion, and Eshelman felt it would not 

be popular “because it is profound.” The class moved from the Auditorium/Chapel to the Cell 

House for the second session to simplify custodial supervision.837

Classifi cation Room, Federal Penitentiary Period

The room or rooms known as the “Parole Offi ces” during the Military Period became known as 

the “Classifi cation Room” after the Bureau of Prisons took over Alcatraz. The two rooms were 

located in the southeast corner of the wing, with windows over the south façade (fi gure BP4). 

829 Irving Levinson interview.

830 Monthly Statistical Report of Protestant Chaplains, July 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

831 Monthly Statistical Report of Protestant Chaplains, August 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

832 Monthly Statistical Report of Protestant Chaplains, February 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12. See Occupancy Section, above, for more on chaplains.

833 Monthly Statistical Report of Protestant Chaplains, April 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

834 Sevigna, “Good Men on the Rock,” 7.

835 Byron Eshelman to Dr. Benjamin Frank, BoP, June 12, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

836 Monthly Statistical Report of Protestant Chaplains, September 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

837 Monthly Statistical Report of Protestant Chaplains, April 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

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168

Two photographs of this room show a large conference table surrounded by upholstered 

chairs, with curtains at the windows (fi gures ODR1 and ODR2). A former inmate described 

what he called the “Board Room,” where parole meetings were held: 

Now they had a big table in there and the Warden would sit at the head of the table, the Associate Warden would be here, then the Captain, then the Lieutenant, then the industry man 

and the priest, whatever, and you’d sit down at the end of the table. They would talk to you but 

it never did amount to nothing. You wasn’t going to get no parole out of here anyhow.838

When the Offi cers’ Dining Room was constructed on the second fl oor of the Administration 

Wing in 1959, it was decided that the Classifi cation Room, in which meetings were held “once 

every two weeks and then only for an hour or two” could be incorporated into the new 

Dining Room. Warden Madigan suggested that classifi cation meetings could be held in the 

Auditorium/Chapel next door, with prisoners using the stairway between the fi rst fl oor of the 

Cell House and the Auditorium.839

Auditorium/Chapel, Federal Penitentiary Period

In an inspection report written before the Bureau of Prisons took control of Alcatraz, the consulting engineer noted that “the Department has decided not to use this assembly hall or any 

of the rooms on this fl oor,” and recommended that the three wooden bridges connecting the 

second fl oor of the Administration Wing to the second tier of cells be removed. The openings 

to the Assembly Hall were to be fi lled with concrete.

During the late military period, the Chaplain’s Offi ce was located in the northwest corner of 

the wing, fl anked by the Assembly Hall to the east and the Projection Room to the south (fi gure BP4). A stairway running from the Cell House to the Chaplain’s Offi ce had been removed 

previously, but the door to the offi ce remained. The report recommended that this doorway 

be fi lled in with concrete.840

At some point early in the Bureau of Prisons period Alcatraz administration determined to 

use the Assembly Room as a chapel for religious services and as an Auditorium for infrequent 

showings of motion pictures. Inmates used the stairs east of the Sally Port and entered the 

second fl oor at the east end of the Auditorium. Inmates might also access the second fl oor to 

attend a rare classifi cation meeting in the meeting room in the southeast corner of the wing.

In fi scal year 1937, Alcatraz administration acquired a melodeon or an organ “necessary for 

religious services” at a cost of no more than $50.841 The warden’s secretary played piano 

for services during the 1930s. An island resident who was in the habit of getting up early on 

Sunday mornings, he reasoned, “I liked [the Chaplain] very much and I said ‘Well, if anybody 

838 Robert Guilford Oral History.

839 C. Kelley, Senior Architect, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, March 19, 1959, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

840 Robert Bunge, Consulting Engineer, Prison Equipment Research Bureau, to Sanford Bates, 

Director, BoP, November 17, 1933, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison 

Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-0.

841 F. L. Bixby, Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Johnston, May 13, 1936, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, Class 4 (Prison Matters) 1930–1937, 4-49-1-25.
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HISTORICAL INFORMATION

in prison’s got the gumption to go to church, why, I think once in awhile they ought to be able 

to sing hymns.’ So I went up and played the hymns for them.”842

In 1942 a matched set of Christian and U.S. fl ags were acquired for the Auditorium in time for 

Easter Sunday. The Paramount Flag Company of San Francisco was to provide 4 ́ × 6 ́ fl ags of 

wool bunting, along with 9-foot poles. The U.S. fl ag had a brass spread eagle on top, and the 

Christian fl ag was topped with a cross. Each fl ag included cord and tassels.843

Through the early 1940s, the motion picture projector used in the Auditorium was the 1926 

Simplex model transferred by the army in 1934. It was reported to be in good condition in 

1942.844 In 1954 two surplus 35-mm sound motion picture projectors were transferred to 

Alcatraz from the U.S. Naval Supply Depot. They were primarily for use at the island employees’ recreation center, but were to serve as backup for the equipment in the projection booth 

directly west of the Auditorium.845 The movie screen measured 9 ́ × 15 ́846 and could be set up 

behind the altar (fi gures CA2, CA3, CA4, CA5, and CA6). 

New motion picture projectors were acquired before December 1957, but their installation 

was delayed because no electrician was available to do the job.847 By early May 1958 the job 

was almost completed, and two Simplex projectors “obsolete and in poor condition” were 

turned over to the army base in Oakland.848

Alcatraz did not own any motion picture fi lms, but rented them through contracts with various fi lm companies.849 In early 1941, in the process of being transferred from the dock at Fort 

Mason to the boat headed for Alcatraz, a Paramount Pictures fi lm titled “Pacifi c Paradise” was 

accidentally dropped into the bay when an army employee lost his footing on a slippery landing stage. Although the motion picture studio attempted to be reimbursed the $70.32 cost of 

the fi lm, the Comptroller General eventually denied the claim, asserting that reasonable care 

had been taken with the fi lm.850

In mid-1947 Alcatraz administration renewed annual motion picture contracts with 20th Century 

Fox Film, RKO Radio Pictures, Columbia Pictures, Republic Pictures, Universal Pictures, Loew’s 

Incorporated, Warner Brothers Pictures, Paramount Pictures, and United Artists.851

842 Fred Reichel interview.

843 Invitation, Bid, and Acceptance, March 12, 1942 and J. Johnston to Director, BoP, March 18, 

1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6.

844 “Motion Picture Projectors Owned” October 30, 1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 3, and Receiving Report, June 16, 1934, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 15.

845 E. Swope to Director, BoP, June 14, 1954, and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, Box 3.

846 P. Madigan to Warden, El Reno, February 25, 1955, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 15.

847 Associate Warden to Warden, January 15, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 5.

848 Warden Madigan to J. Miller, BoP, May 7, 1958, telegram, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 15.

849 “Motion Picture Projectors Owned” October 30, 1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

Box 3.

850 Comptroller General of the United States to Paramount Pictures, Inc., February 12, 1942, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 15.

851 L. Mills, Administrative. Manager, Alcatraz, to Director, BoP, July 7, 1947, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03. 

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170

Motion pictures were shown to island residents on selected evenings until the 1946 riot occurred. Alcatraz employees and their families entered the Cell House through a door on the 

west side of the Administration Wing, near the Visitors’ Room. The door has since been removed. When all moviegoers were assembled, they went upstairs to the Auditorium/Chapel 

and settled themselves in the seats. Convict motion picture operators ran the show, with correctional offi cers on duty in the room.852 Following the riot, 35-mm motion picture projectors 

were installed in the island Social Hall, and families watched movies there.853

By summer 1944 the penitentiary had acquired a Western Electric moving picture machine 

and received funding to purchase a Western Electric special reproducer to play records and 

“special transcriptions” over the Auditorium sound system. The new machine had “two cylinders and two reproducers, making possible an unbroken program of music or transcribed 

programs such as are released by the War Department and other educational agencies.”854

When Alcatraz closed in 1963 motion picture equipment such as projectors, cinemascope 

lenses, and rewinding equipment was transferred to Terminal Island Penitentiary.855

Recorded programs had been presented in the institution for some time using a portable phonograph that was moved throughout the Main Prison Building as needed. This caused wear 

on the phonograph, which by mid-1944 was “four or fi ve years old and increasingly in need of 

repairs.” Recorded music was used almost exclusively in religious services, and other recorded programs were “increasingly used in connection with movie and educational programs.” 

Warden Johnston proposed to keep the new “special reproducer” in the Auditorium and use 

the phonograph in the Yard or in the Cell House.856

The windows in the Auditorium were considered “a weak point in this Institution” by 1941. 

The sashes were not tool-proof, and window guards were rusted and “entirely beyond repair.” Because “jail breaking is being constantly attempted at Alcatraz,” the windows had to 

be constantly guarded. Replacement of the existing sashes and guards with tool-proof steel 

detention sashes was urgent.857

In early January 1942 the window upgrades were complete, with the exception of two windows in the Projection Room. Painting and touching up on the walls and around the window 

jambs was yet to be completed.858

By 1950 Alcatraz staff and administration realized that the passage of inmates between the 

Cell House and the Auditorium and Classifi cation Room on the second fl oor was “unneces852 Philip Bergen, telephone interview by Mary Grassick, September 19, 2000, transcript in 

GGNRA Park Archives collections.

853 See Phyllis T. Weed, Alcatraz Home Town, (New York: Vantage Press, 1969.)

854 J. Johnston to Director J. Bennett, BoP, July 27, 1944, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 3.

855 S. Turk, Communications Engineer to Mr. Hurley, BoP, March 8, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

856 J. Johnston to Director J. Bennett, BoP, July 27, 1944, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 3.

857 Robert Dunbar, Construction Supervisor, to Business and Fiscal Section, BoP, August 14, 

1941, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

858 Walter Sanger, Construction Engineer, to Supervising Engineer, Public Buildings Administration, January 3, 1942, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 2.
171

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

sarily hazardous” and should be improved “from a custodial standpoint.” Most of the prison 

population passed through the area between the two main gates and up the stairs east of the 

Sally Port every two weeks on the way to the movies. On a visit to Alcatraz, the Director of the 

Bureau of Prisons recommended that a new stairway be installed leading from the west side 

of the Cell House directly to the Auditorium “through the hall between the visiting room and 

the lavatory” (fi gure BP9).859 This stairway was installed around 1954 or 1955. (See section on 

Visitors’ Room, above.) 

Surplus steel folding chairs were transferred to Alcatraz from Mare Island Naval Station in 

early 1946. Alcatraz accepted 34 chairs initially, then liked them so well that they picked up 

another 300 for the Auditorium. They also accepted 20 surplus steel chairs, nonfolding, with 

leather seats and backs.860

By spring 1956, Warden Madigan reported that the auditorium chairs were “in a bad state of 

repairs” and the Auditorium itself was a “rather shabby looking room.”861 Five thousand dollars for new auditorium seating was authorized in 1955, but the seats were not replaced at that 

time.862 A project to refurbish the Auditorium/Chapel area was established the following year, 

and by September 1957 new window shades had been installed. The “sacristy” area was due 

to be painted, but the project was temporarily deferred.863

Chaplain Byron Eshelman remarked that “an extensive supply of religious literature is received each week,” commenting that much of it came from “fundamentalist and mind-cult 

groups.” He regularly put out two weeks worth of publications on “two long benches in the 

chapel” during the weekly Protestant service so that inmates could stop and select materials 

on the way to the service.864

The chapel at Alcatraz received two “Ecclesiastical Appointments,” (possibly sets of altar hangings), four Communion sets, and one chapel cross as a transfer from Lewisburg 

Penitentiary in September 1949.865 In early 1947, Chillicothe Penitentiary transferred 30 surplus Hymns of Fellowship hymnals to Alcatraz.866

An “attractive paneling and altar arrangement” constructed with inmate assistance and 

completed some years before 1947 was in place for Eshelman’s services. The altar platform 

was moveable, and it could be pushed into a recess cut into the stage to make way for the 

large screen used for motion pictures (fi gures CA5 and CA6). Father Joseph Clark, Catholic 

859 E. Swope to Director, BoP, June 21, 1950, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 1.

860 Telegrams, February 21, 1946 and April 2, 1946, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 3.

861 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, May 3, 1956, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 12.

862 A. Kaeppel, Chief Clerk, to R. Meier, Budget Offi cer, BoP, September 14, 1955, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 3.

863 Associate Warden to Warden, September 9, 1957, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 5.

864 Byron Eshelman to J. Johnston and others, February 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

865 G. Davis Chief Accountant, BoP, to Lewisburg, September 15, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

866 G. Davis, Chief Accountant, BoP, to Warden, Chillicothe, March 7, 1947, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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172

Chaplain from 1935 to 1942 and from 1946 through 1952, wrote that he gave the inmates the 

bronze plaque and they built the altar from mahogany.867

A former correctional offi cer noted that changes were made to the room, as well as to the 

stage and partitions, throughout the 1940s and mid-1950s,868 but specifi c information about 

physical changes has not been located for this report. Figures CA1 through CA9 illustrate 

a fairly consistent use of the altar and surrounding panels and the same lighting fi xtures 

throughout. A band of decorative trim near the ceiling has been painted out in fi gure CA7.

According to the 1956 Institution Rules and Regulations, when attending worship services or 

movies prisoners were required to remove all items from their pockets except for handkerchiefs, eyeglasses, and eyeglass cases. Smoking was not allowed in the Auditorium, and caps, 

jackets, and coats were forbidden. Schedules for religious services were posted on the menu 

board in the Dining Room.869

Eshelman described the Protestant worship service conducted on alternate Sundays: 

Advance preparation for the worship service includes the proper locating of the altar, 

pulpit, panels and chairs if there has been a motion picture show since the previous worship service. On Saturday afternoons the inmate musical ensemble is permitted to take 

their instruments up to the auditorium and arrange their chairs at the side of the altar 

opposite the pulpit. At this time the minister takes up fl owers previously obtained from 

an inmate gardener and also religious literature accumulated over the previous two 

weeks. . . . The fl owers are arranged on pedestals and holders which match the altar furnishings. The open Bible is placed on the altar and a tall white candle in holder is placed 

on either side of the Bible. The over-all eff ect is pleasing and gives a minimum of “custodial atmosphere.”

The services are held on Sundays at 8:00 a.m. The chaplain enters the chapel with the 

fi rst offi cer and the musical ensemble come up subsequently. The chaplain dawns [sic] his 

black pulpit robe and lights the candles while the ensemble is getting settled. When all is 

ready the ensemble begins the music and the chaplain stands so as to greet the inmates 

and give them a hymn book and an order of worship. . . . The men stand for all hymns and 

participate in the service for prayers, responsive readings and the opening call to worship 

and call to prayer. After the service the chaplain greets the men and shakes hands.870

When the service ended, the Chaplain made announcements and gave the inmates a chance 

to ask questions or make comments. After this, the candles were extinguished, the Bible 

closed, and the musical ensemble presented a program of popular music. These inmates volunteered to play church music soon after Eshelman arrived at the island, and Eshelman felt 

they were a “defi nite asset in the worship program.” They did not know many hymns, though, 

867 See fi gure CA1. 

868 “Notes from Bergen interview,” August 2000, John Martini, GGNRA Park Archives collections.

869 Institution Rules and Regulations, 13 and 17.

870 Byron Eshelman, Worship Report, March 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 12.
173

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

because before they practiced, each inmate had to transpose the music and write his own 

chords.871

The musical ensemble in 1948 included a guitar, two saxophones, a clarinet, drum, bass, 

and a vocalist. They practiced Thursdays through Sundays, and Eshelman met with them on 

Fridays. They were mainly interested in popular music, but they had “weathered personnel 

changes” and become “larger than ever before and more profi cient.” Special selections for a 

service in January 1948 included “Paper Doll” and “In the Mood.”872

A few months later, the ensemble consisted of a violin, a trumpet, a guitar, a bass, and a “special guitar.” This group played three selections at the end of the service.873 Before the end of 

1948, however, the musical performances were discontinued, and with the change came a 

drop in attendance at the services. Eshelman’s account of the matter in his annual report is 

guarded but clearly disappointed, and he pointed out that the program required “a special 

nurture which was no longer available with the change of Associate Wardens.”874 The advantages of the program must have been noted by others in the Alcatraz administration, though, 

as live music was again featured during a January 1949 service, including a special rendition of 

“Blue Flame” after the service.875

Eventually, participation of inmates in the musical ensemble was permanently discontinued. 

It became evident that the inmate musicians were using their position to slack off in their 

Prison Industries jobs and were ordered to “remain on the job or give up their preferred jobs.” 

Eshelman reasoned that “it is undoubtedly wise to maintain a policy of detachment as regards 

the inmate musical group.” He concluded, “The inmate musicians have been prostituting the 

church service to their ends rather than participate for the joy of sharing their talents.” He 

pointed out, however, that the musicians were “completely inoff ensive” and contributed to 

services, although unfortunately with “ulterior intent.”876

Prior to the introduction of live music at worship services, chaplains had used phonograph 

records “played at appropriate places.” Eshelman explained that the “men operate the machines from a hidden control room and respond to a light signal controlled from the pulpit by 

the chaplain.” Apparently, it was diffi cult to get the convicts to sing with the records, but by his 

third service, Eshelman had some of the men singing along.877

Audiovisual aids were used during worship services as well. Eshelman frequently used slide 

programs and 16-mm motion pictures during the services, in addition to sound recordings. 

871 Ibid.

872 Ibid., and Order of Worship, January 2 [1949], NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 12.

873 Order of Worship, March 7, 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

874 Chaplain’s Annual and Summary Report, December 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

875 Order of Worship, January 16, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 12.

876 Byron Eshelman, Topical Monthly Report [dated April 1948, actually April 1949?], NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

877 Byron Eshelman, Worship Report, March 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 12.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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174

He began showing slides in early 1948 and saw Protestant attendance increase when he sent 

out mimeographed notices advertising a slide program about Washington and Lincoln as 

part of a February service.878 In September 1948 the Director of the Bureau of Prisons visited 

Alcatraz and indicated that additional funding would be provided for the religious program. 

Eshelman planned to use the money for additional audiovisual aids.879

Slide programs on the “Life of Christ,” “How We Got Our Bible,” and other subjects were 

shown after services or in conjunction with sermons, and one Sunday in February 1949 an 

“all-projected” Protestant service was held, during which the “responses, scripture, prayers, 

call to worship, and hymns were all projected on the screen” instead of being written in the 

program.880

A Christmas tree was set up in the chapel for the Christmas holiday in 1948. The tree was decorated with “the usual tinsel and balls,” and there was also a crèche with nativity fi gures. The 

Chaplain gave away 1,200 free Christmas cards.881

The Easter program for 1949 included a slide show during the Protestant service “highlighting the events of Holy Week,” live and recorded music, an inmate solo of “The Old Rugged 

Cross,” an inmate scripture reading, and a screening of “The Prodigal Son.” The Catholic 

Chaplain celebrated Easter Day with a mass, and on Easter afternoon “Easter Parade” and 

various short subjects were shown in the Auditorium.882

The Auditorium/Chapel was also used as a Training or Seminar Room for correctional offi -

cers. Figures CA5 and CA6 show a training class around 1950.

Telephone Room, Federal Penitentiary Period

In August 1959, the Telephone Room on the fi rst fl oor of the Administration Wing was relocated to the second fl oor. The vacated space on the fi rst fl oor was to be used for the new 

Control Room. The area selected to house the Telephone Room on the second fl oor served as 

the Chaplain’s Offi ce during the military period, and probably during the Bureau of Prisons 

period as well (fi gure BP4). 

Many changes were ordered to this room before the telecommunications specialist could 

install the relocated telephone equipment. Security was paramount, as communications for 

most of the island were controlled from this room. A toilet was located in the original room, 

and it was to be moved outside of the partition and adjacent to the stairs used by inmates 

to access the Auditorium. The senior architect directed that “the present fl oor outlet can be 

used,” suggesting that plumbing for a toilet was already in place outside of the partition. The 

new fi xture was to be placed on a “raised platform.”

878 Monthly Statistical Report of Protestant Chaplains, February 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

879 Monthly Statistical Report of Protestant Chaplains, September 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

880 Monthly Statistical Report of Protestant Chaplains, August 1948 and February 1949, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.

881 Report of Christmas Activities, December 1948, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 12.

882 Easter Program, April 9, 1949 and Protestant Service of Worship, April 10, 1949, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 12.
175

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

A short fl ight of steps from the Auditorium fl oor to the Projection Room was removed, and 

the entrance to that room was blocked off . A new entrance to the Projection Room was cut 

into the south wall, which separated the former Dental Offi ce, now a storage room, from the 

projection area. A 1947 inventory and report on the Library mentioned the “discard storeroom behind the Chapel,”883 probably the old Library. Exterior windows were to be bricked 

in, and a new wall of concrete blocks was to be constructed to replace the existing partition 

between the former offi ce and the Auditorium. The wall between the Telephone Room and 

the Projection Room was also to be replaced with concrete block.

An industrial steel plate door with a heavy-duty cylinder lock was to be installed in the new 

room. A new fan over the door provided “a constant pressure in the room.” Finally, the plywood partition dividing the room was to be removed and the resulting opening to the space 

above the ceiling was to be sealed up.884

Offi cers’ Dining Room, Federal Penitentiary Period

During the military period an “overseers’” mess was located in the Kitchen adjacent to the 

prisoners’ mess (fi gure BP7). The Bureau of Prisons continued to use this area as an Offi cers’ 

Dining Room. The fi rst fl oor Offi cers’ Dining Room was refurbished in the early 1950s, but by 

1958 the decision was made to move this room to the second fl oor. The change would make 

the Offi cers’ Dining Room “accessible without offi cers and visitors having to pass through the 

cellhouse . . . this results in much lost time by offi cers and many otherwise unnecessary trips 

through the cellhouse by visitors.”885

The location chosen for the new Offi cers’ Dining Room was the former site of the army 

Library. Army records continued to be stored there during the Bureau of Prisons period, and 

a former correctional offi cer recalled Warden Swope ordering the records be thrown out. The 

fi les contained records of work accomplished, fi ll dirt excavated, and other matters. Island 

staff were allowed to take what they wanted, and the remaining records were burned in the 

island incinerator.886

In late 1958 serious planning began for the Offi cers’ Dining Room on the second fl oor of the 

Administration Wing. An engineer from the Bureau of Prisons took measurements of the east 

end of the wing and located water, steam, and electrical service. He noted that toilets were 

not available for inmates who would be working in food service in the Offi cers’ Dining Room, 

but felt that there was enough space to construct a new toilet room in the service section on 

the north side.887

It was eventually decided to install one toilet for the use of both staff and inmates next to the 

Offi cers’ Dining Room entrance. A mop and storage room was combined with the toilet area 

so that both areas could be ventilated to the outside. A wall separated the toilet area from the 

883 Institution Library Report and Inventory, April 4, 1947, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 21.

884 C. Kelley, Senior Architect, BoP, to P. Madigan, August 24, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

885 Associate Warden to Warden, Alcatraz, January 15, 1958, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 5.

886 “Notes from Bergen interview,” August 2000.

887 W. Overton, Engineer, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, January 21, 1959, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
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176

dining area, “with separate entrance from the corridor at the head of the stairs from the main 

gate, alongside the entrance to the dining area” (fi gure ODR18).888

New equipment was needed for the Dining Room, but certain items such as a table on casters, 

a serving table, a coff eemaker, and a dishwasher were already on hand. By early 1959, Alcatraz 

administration anticipated acquiring only a water cooler, portable glass and cup racks, a twodoor refrigerator, and an eight-foot-long double drain board stainless steel sink. It was hoped 

that some of the items could be acquired from government surplus sources.889

Before construction began, there was some discussion of relocating the stairway and the 

door leading to the East Gun Gallery, but in the end it was decided to keep the stairway and 

door as they were, as the existing arrangement provided good protection for guards entering 

the Gun Gallery. At the same time the decision was made to incorporate the Classifi cation 

Room at the south end of the wing into the Offi cers’ Dining Room. Meetings formerly held 

in the Classifi cation Room could be held in the Auditorium instead.890 The Bureau of Prisons’ 

Administrator of Food Services commented approvingly: “Using the full area with natural 

light from 2 walls is a much better plan than the original.”891

Alcatraz administrators planned to install a photomural on the west wall of the new dining 

room, but as of March 1959 they had yet to locate “just the thing we had in mind.”892

As the Offi cers’ Dining Room neared completion in spring 1960, it became clear that the tables and chairs for the room were not becoming available through government surplus sources and would have to be purchased. The warden estimated that only 12 tables and 48 chairs 

were needed, at a cost of just under $1,000. The new dining room would also need a small 

electric grill, a small menu board, napkin holders, plates, and some ashtrays. These purchases 

were approved and funded.893

By June 1960 a new tile fl oor was installed, window shades were in place, and woodwork had 

been fi nished. Ten new “formica type” tables with chrome bases were purchased, along with 

40 chrome and leather chairs. The electric grill was located on surplus, as were two “pie and 

salad racks.” The steam table and coff ee urn from the existing Offi cers’ Dining Room in the 

Kitchen were moved upstairs. The new dining room was deemed “very attractive and large 

enough for our needs.”894

888 P. Madigan to H. Reep, Mech. Adm., BoP, July 13, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

889 G. Lieser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, to Warden Madigan, January 21, 1959 and P. 

Madigan to G. Lieser, February 5, 1959 and attachments, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 4, and G. Lieser to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, April 20, 

1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

890 C. Kelley, Senior Architect, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, March 19, 1959, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

891 G. Lieser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, to Myrl Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, April 

20, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 17.

892 P. Madigan to C. Kelley, Senior Architect, BoP, March 27, 1959, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

893 P. Madigan to G. Lieser, BoP, March 30, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 4.

894 G. Jones, Food Administrator, Alcatraz, to G. Lieser, June 8, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz 

Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.
177

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

The Kitchen for the new dining area needed a few improvements prior to opening, however, 

and the Alcatraz Food Administrator recommended installation of a locker in the space outside the dining room door to store “cleaning supplies, towels, etc.” that could not be stored in 

the Kitchen area.895

The Offi cers’ Dining Room opened on or before July 1, 1960, and “all hands feel very happy 

that they do not have to go back to the kitchen to eat.”896 The new dining room was considered a “big morale factor” for correctional offi cers. Three 4 ́ × 6 ́ colored photo murals of San 

Francisco on the west wall added to the “beauty of the unit” (fi gures ODR4, ODR7, ODR11, 

and ODR17).897

Meals were served “table style,” and the dining room fed “more offi cers now than we did in 

the old Offi cers Mess.” Additional plates, cups, and saucers were purchased for the new dining room and all equipment was installed by the beginning of July with the exception of the 

grill and a salad table, which were in place by the end of the month.898 The total cost for the 

relocation of the Offi cers’ Dining Room was $6,641.51.899

On a Friday night at the end of July the wives of institutional employees were hosted to a light 

meal in the new Offi cers’ Dining Room. Eighty wives and 57 men from both the island and the 

mainland saw the new room and enjoyed ham- and egg-salad sandwiches, donuts, and coff ee 

served by four inmate servers wearing bow ties with their uniforms. The four “regularly assigned inmates” waited on tables and “did an exceedingly good job.” As there were so many 

correctional offi cers present “no custodial problem existed.”900

The event was good for employee morale, and Warden Madigan commented, “All the ladies 

were impressed with the dining room and it may be a factor in helping to keep them content 

with living on the island” (fi gures ODR4, ODR5, ODR6, ODR7, ODR9, ODR10, ODR11, and 

ODR12).901

A former correctional offi cer claimed that AZ #1217, James “Blackie” Audett, ran the food service operation in the new dining room.902 Audett is pictured in fi gures ODR5, ODR6, 

and ODR8.

895 Ibid.

896 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, July 8, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16.

897 Ibid., and “List of Installed Equipment . . .” January 15, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.

898 G. Jones, Food Administrator, to G. Lieser, BoP, July 10, 1960 and August 8, 1960, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 9.

899 P. Madigan to J. Miller, Chief, Fiscal and Business Branch, BoP, January 13, 1961, NARA, RG 

129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 5.

900 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, August 2, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 1, and G. Jones to G. Lieser, August 8, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 9.

901 P. Madigan to Director, BoP, August 2, 1960, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 1.

902 “Notes from conversations with Alcatraz Alumni,” August 12, 2001, John Martini, GGNRA 

Park Archives collections. 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

178

For Christmas 1962, the Culinary Department set up their fi rst ever staff Christmas tree in the 

Offi cers’ Dining Room, and Assistant Warden Olin Blackwell took black and white snapshots 

of the room.903 The photographs were not located for this report. 

When the institution closed in 1963 the new tables and chairs from the Offi cers’ Dining Room 

were transferred to McNeil Island Penitentiary.904 The photomurals of San Francisco went to 

Marion Penitentiary.905

903 G. Jones to G. Lieser, January 6, 1961, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 9.

904 N. Alldredge, Deputy Assistant Director, BoP, to Warden Blackwell, March 6, 1963, NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.

905 “List of Installed Equipment . . .” January 15, 1963, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 

129-96-03, Box 7.
Furnishings Plan

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

179
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

180
181

List of Recommended Furnishings 

Warden’s Office

The Warden’s Offi ce, located on the east side of the Main Prison Building, was slated for remodeling along 

with the rest of the Administration Wing in late 1961. Construction plans were drawn up in February 1962, 

and renovations began in the Business Offi ce on the west side of the Administration Wing. The project was 

stopped in autumn 1962 when a fi nal decision was made to close Alcatraz. Although never renovated, the 

Warden’s Offi ce was updated throughout the federal penitentiary period, with new fl uorescent lighting installed in 1946, a new radiator installed in 1961, and new furnishings added throughout the period.

As outlined in the Interpretive Objectives section above, all areas in the Administration Wing will be furnished 

to the period after 1960. However, because the Warden’s Offi ce did not undergo signifi cant renovation, the 

confi guration of the space and many of the furnishings remained the same throughout the period. Note, 

though, that the doorway to the Associate Warden’s Offi ce was closed off sometime in the mid-1950s. The 

transomed door is shown in fi gure W3, which documents Warden Swope conducting a meeting sometime 

during his tenure of 1947–55. The door was fi lled in by 1958, when Warden Madigan was photographed in 

front of the door (fi gure W6).

The double desk shown in fi gures W1 and W5 and used by Wardens Johnston, Swope, and Madigan was replaced by a new desk, shown in fi gure W13, sometime before closing. Because the double desk was used in 

this room during most of the period of signifi cance, the furnishings plan recommends using this type of desk 

in the room.

The recommended fl oor covering is wall-to-wall carpet in a medium tone of brown or beige. Warden 

Johnston had a blue carpet in his offi ce, but it is unclear what color the carpet was by 1960. Figure W8 shows 

the carpet to be a medium brown or taupe, but the print color could be distorted. 

Decorative wood wainscoting around the column in the center of the Offi ce should be reproduced (fi gure 

W5). The walls are painted white or a very light color. Finishes analysis is recommended to determine the exact color of paint used.

The following furnishings plan includes recommended furnishings for the entire Warden’s Offi ce. Final decisions as to visitor access to this room and direction of visitor traffi c will determine whether this space is furnished in full or whether only sections of the room are furnished.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

182

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

American fl ag, fl agpole, and Figures W5, W13. Acquire fl ag, pole, and stand.

stand (right of entrance door, in “List of Equipment Suitable for Transfer,” January 16,

northeast corner of room) 1963: “FLAG, American 4-1⁄2×5-1⁄2, gold fringed, 

tasseled cord, two section 9’ oak fi nish hardwood 

pole, gilt fi nished” 

Bookcase, with series of books Figure W5. See also W13 for different bookcase in Acquire period bookcase and

(against north wall, in northeast same location. book series.

corner) 

Desk, double pedestal, hardwood Figures W1, W2, W4, W5 Use desk in collection or acquire

(near doorway, parallel to north period desk.

wall) 

Desk accessories: Figures W4, W5, W13. See also W2 for desktop Acquire.

Desk blotter, leather edges during Warden Swope’s tenure.

Blotter paper

Paper trays, two, wood

Ashtray, glass, square

Pen stand, with pen

Papers

Desk calendar (on desk) 

Table, offi ce-type, with two Figures W1, W2, W4, W5, W13. Acquire.

drawers, wood (behind desk, “List of Equipment Suitable for Transfer,” January 16,

against north wall) 1963: “TABLE, wood, offi ce type, walnut fi nish, 

tapered legs, 30-1⁄2” high, double drawers in front” 

Desk telephones, three, black Figures W1, W2, W4, W5, W13. Acquire.

enamel, three different styles Installed in 1934. See “Specifi cations, Interior Telephone 

Exchange . . .”, (on table) March 15, 1934. Also 

“Equipment and Property–Alcatraz,” March 6, 

1963, NARA, RG 129 

Speaker (on table) Figures W2, W4, W5 Reproduce as shown in 

 illustration.

Papers, loose and bound, card Figures W1, W4, W5 Acquire.

case, and fi les (on table) 

Wastebasket, square, metal Figures W5, W13 Acquire.

(next to desk, on right) 

Chair, wood, with arms, leather Figure W13 Acquire period chair.

upholstery (behind desk) Reupholster as necessary.

Portraits, framed and matted: Figure W13. Common practice; see also W4 and W5 Reproduce.

President John F. Kennedy

Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy

Bureau of Prisons Director James 

Bennett (hanging on wall behind 

desk) 

Framed seal of Department of Figure W4. See also W13 for different placement. Reproduce.

Justice (on south face of pilaster, 

west of table) 

Landscapes, two, framed and Figures W4, W10 Acquire or reproduce period 

matted (north wall) prints or paintings.

Framed prints, two, (hanging Figure W5 Acquire period prints, paintings,

on column) maps, or regulations.
183

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

Warden’s Office continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

File cabinet, metal, dark green or Figures W10, W11 Acquire.

brown, four drawer (against north 

wall, in northwest corner of room) 

Pitcher, water, metal (on fi le Figures W6, W10, W11 Acquire.

cabinet) 

Lectern, wood (near fi le cabinet) Figures W10 and W11. Shows use of room for Acquire.

 training sessions. 

Framed prints, three, two Figures W3, W10, W11 Reproduce.

landscapes and one portrait of 

Jesus (on west wall) 

Conference tables, two, wood, Figures W3, W6, W9, W10, W11 Acquire.

arranged side by side or end to 

end (in front of fi replace) 

Chairs, eight, wood arms and legs, Figures W1 and W4 show chairs with early fl oral Acquire set of period chairs and

leather-upholstered back and seats, upholstery. Figures W8, W11, W12, W13, W15. reupholster, or reproduce.

decorative brass tacks (some at Property List, Administration Offi ces, May 15, 1963

table, some in front of desk) 

Chairs, four, wood, straight back, Figures W3, W6 Acquire.

solid seat (at tables) 

Framed print, wagon train scene Figures W3, W9, W11 Reproduce.

(over fi replace) 

Trophies, three, metal on base, Figures W6, W6, W9, W11 Acquire.

one bowling, two other (on 

mantel) 

Annunciator panel, (installed Figures W3, W6. Restore annunciator panel

over mantel) The conference-call annunciator panel is an still in place.

electrically controlled signal board. See “Specifi cations,

 Interior Telephone Exchange . . .”, March 15, 1934. 

Calendar, wall, illustrated (hanging Figures W6, W9 Acquire.

on south wall between doorways) 

Clock, Ansonia, (hanging on south Figures W6, W9. Acquire.

wall between doorways) Item Justifi cation–1952 Equipment Budget, 

May 8, 1951 

Bookcase, glass front, with books Figures W6, W9 Acquire bookcase and books.

(on south wall between doorways) 

Trophy and/or metal vase (on Figures W6, W9. See fi gure W5 for another view of Acquire.

bookcase) the vase. 

Couch, green upholstered, wood Figures W7 and W8. An upholstered green couch Acquire period couch.

legs with metal fi nish, decorative was located in the Warden’s Secretary’s Offi ce when Reupholster as necessary.

brass tack detail (left of doorway, Alcatraz closed. See Property List, Administration

against east wall) Offi ces, May 15, 1963. 

Coffee table, wood, round top Figure W7. Acquire.

(in front of couch) “List of Equipment Suitable for Transfer,” January 16, 

1963: “TABLE, round, 18” high low boy, coffee table, 

dark wood fi nish” 

Ashtray, on stand (near couch) Figure W13. Acquire.

“List of Equipment Suitable for Transfer,” January 16, 

1963: “ASHTRAY, metal, stand type, chromium non-tilt” 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

184

Warden’s Office continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Venetian blinds, metal, four sets Figure W13 Acquire and install.

(on offi ce door and over transom) 

Lighting fi xtures, fl uorescent, Figure W5, W13, W15, AO11, AO12. Acquire.

four, four-lamp style (install James Johnston to Thomas Butterworth, March 27, 

overhead according to physical 1946, NARA, RG 129

evidence) 

Radiator covers, two (on south Figure W14 Reproduce radiator covers as

wall; install according to physical shown in illustration.

evidence) 

Correctional Officers’ Lounge

The Correctional Offi cers’ Lounge or Break Room was located just east of the entrance hall. There are no 

photographs of this room, and it is not mentioned in contemporary correspondence. One 1963 document 

provides a list of surplus property under the heading “Custodial.”

Oral history interviews provide minimal description of what was apparently a functional, bare-bones break 

room. Nonetheless, it is important to interpret this room to broaden visitors’ understanding of Correctional 

Offi cers’ working conditions, professional responsibilities, and way of life.

This room was used mainly as a waiting room where offi cers could gather before a shift. Offi cers could read 

notices posted on a clipboard, smoke a cigarette while on break, or eat their lunch there. Personal possessions 

would not as a rule be brought into the Offi cers’ Lounge or into the Main Prison Building. A locker room was 

located in a building by the dock, and offi cers changed from their street clothes into their uniforms down 

there. Items such as combs, pencils, and pads—things that could be kept in pockets—were the only personal 

belongings brought into the Main Prison Building.

It is unclear whether any changes were made to the Offi cers’ Lounge during the 1962 renovation. Warden 

Blackwell suggested carrying on some of the work east of the entrance hall even after the October 28, 1962, 

“stopping point,” citing the interested visitors and public that would continue to come to the Main Prison 

Building until it closed. He wanted to extend the “bank type” partitions used on the west side of the wing as 

far east as the Associate Warden’s Offi ce wall, an area that would have included the lounge. 

This plan recommends wall and fl oor fi nishes shown in Figures AO13 and AO14, which illustrate fi nishes treatments in sections of the Administrative Wing that were not renovated. Walls and trim are painted a light blue; 

further fi nishes analysis is recommended to determine the exact paint color used during this period. The fl oor is 

covered in medium red-brown linoleum tiles with white streaks and trimmed with a black sanitary base. 

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Chairs, two, straight-back, wood “Notes from Philip Bergen Interview,” John Martini, Acquire.

(around table) August, 2001

 Surplus property list, “Custodial,” 1963: “Furniture, 

 Waiting Room (2 Davenports, 2 Chairs)” 
185

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

Correctional Officers’ Lounge continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Table, small, wood (in center of “Notes from Philip Bergen Interview,” John Martini, Acquire.

room) August, 2001 

Radio, AM/FM (on table) Surplus property list, “Custodial,” 1963 Acquire period radio.

Ashtrays, two (on table) “Notes from Philip Bergen Interview,” John Martini, Acquire. 

 August, 2001

 See fi gures W5 and W6 for examples. 

Pad and pencil (on table) Phone conversation between Mary Grassick and Acquire.

Philip Bergen, Sept. 19, 2000 

Bench, wood, with back (against “Notes from Philip Bergen Interview,” John Martini, Acquire or fabricate bench.

wall) August, 2001 

Davenport (against wall) Surplus property list, “Custodial,” 1963: “Furniture, Acquire period davenport. Use 

Waiting Room (2 Davenports, 2 Chairs)” one only due to limited space.

Hook (attached to north wall) “Notes from Philip Bergen Interview,” John Martini, Acquire.

 August, 2001 

Shannon fi le, clipboard with large “Notes from Philip Bergen Interview,” John Martini, Acquire fi le and reproduce 

U-rings, with notices to staff August, 2001 notices.

(hanging on hook) 

Coke machine (against west wall) “Notes from Philip Bergen Interview,” John Martini, Acquire.

 August, 2001 

Crate, wood, with empty Coke Used with Coke machine Acquire period crate and bottles.

bottles (next to machine) 

Water cooler, cup holder and Surplus property list, “Custodial,” 1963: “Water Acquire.

cups (near door) Cooler, Dispenser, Size 10” 

Venetian blinds, one set (on Figure AO13. Acquire.

window) Venetian blinds were used throughout the 

 Administration Wing. 

Lighting fi xtures, fl uorescent, Figures AO11 and AO12. Acquire.

three-lamp style (install overhead Fluorescent lighting fi xtures were used throughout

according to physical evidence) the Administration Wing. 

Linoleum tile, medium red-brown Figures AO13 and AO14 Acquire.

with white streaks (install on fl oor) 

Control Center

The Control Center opened in August 1961 in a new location west of the Sally Port, with improved and updated communications and security equipment. The equipment was mounted on a specially designed wood console made by the Federal Reformatory at El Reno. The Correctional Offi cer in the Control Center could see 

not only the entrances to the Main Prison Building and the Cell House, but also part of the Business Offi ce 

and the Visitors’ Room.

The new walls and woodwork were painted a pale beige or tan color (fi gures CC5 and CC6). Again, further fi nishes analysis is recommended to determine the correct color for the interpretive period. The fl oor 

is covered in the same medium red-brown linoleum tiles with white streaks used in other areas of the 

Administration Wing. Two fl uorescent light fi xtures were installed fl ush with the new acoustical ceiling tiles.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

186

The new Control Center operated for little more than a year, and by early 1963 all the new equipment and fi xtures in the Control Center were removed. Furnishings and fi xtures were transferred almost in their entirety 

to Lompoc Penitentiary.

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Control console, wood (installed Figures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5, CC6, CC 7 Use reproduction console in 

beneath windows around room) place.

Grill and door control switches, Figures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5, CC7. Use reproduction switches in

fi ve (on console, in center panel) See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, place.

1960, NARA, RG 129. 

Telephones, fi ve, wall-mounted, Figures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5, CC7. Acquire.

three black, one green-gray, one Used for fi re, watch call, regular outgoing calls, and

red (mounted on console) “executive right of way” calls. See Appendix D: 

Durham to Kelley, February 9, 1960, NARA, RG 129 

Intercom speaker, to doors and Figures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5, CC7. Add to reproduction console in 

grills (on console, right of door See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, place.

and grill control switches) 1960, NARA, RG 129.

PBX switchboard, for outside Figure CC2. Remove reproduction controls.

telephone (on console, right of See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, Reproduce or acquire original

center panel) 1960, NARA, RG 129. PBX switchboard.

Intercom speaker, to guard Figure CC2. Remove reproduction controls.

tower (on console, right of PBX See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, Reproduce speaker.

switchboard) 1960, NARA, RG 129. 

Intercom speaker, to visitor Figure CC2. Remove reproduction controls.

registration point and corridors See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, Reproduce speaker.

(on console, below speaker to 1960, NARA, RG 129.

guard tower) 

Intercom speaker, paging system Figure CC2. Remove reproduction controls.

for group control (on console, to See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, Reproduce speaker.

right of guard tower intercom 1960, NARA, RG 129.

speaker) 

Signal lamps, for doors to Figures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5, CC7. Remove reproduction controls.

Treatment Unit (on far right of See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, Reproduce signal lamps.

console) 1960, NARA, RG 129. 

Tool box pass (between control Figures CC4, CC5, CC7. Restore.

panels and door to Control Room) See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, 

1960, NARA, RG 129. 

File box, gray, metal (on counter Figure CC4 Acquire.

or pass) 

Turntable, for visitors’ registry, See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, 1960, Restore.

with forms (built in, right of NARA, RG 129.

doorway, facing front of 

Administration Wing) 

Gun depository (built in, right “Used for passing small guns into and out of the Reinstall in wall.

of visitor registry, below large control room”

window) See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, 

1960, NARA, RG 129. 

Key pass (built in, right of gun Figure CC6. Reproduce.

depository) See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, 

1960, NARA, RG 129. 
187

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

Control Center continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Shelving (built in beneath Figures CC3, CC6 Reproduce.

turntable, gun depository and 

key pass sections, south side) 

Flashlights, 16, silver (stored in Figures CC3, CC6 Acquire fl ashlights.

rack on shelving beneath key pass) Reproduce rack.

Storage cabinet, for keys, with Figures CC3, CC6. Reproduce.

keys hanging on hooks (right of See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, Acquire keys and key hooks.

key pass, next to Armory door) 1960, NARA, RG 129. 

Chair, tall, swivel-style, metal Figures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5 Acquire.

with upholstered seat and back 

(at center panel, console) 

Gun port (in wall, below window, Figures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5, CC7. In place

left of center panel, console) See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, 

1960, NARA, RG 129. 

“Wheelplex” fi le system, with Figures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5, CC7. Use reproduction in place.

index cards, for inmate records See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, 

(on console, left of center panel) 1960, NARA, RG 129. 

Speaker, for watch call answering Figures CC2, CC5. Add to reproduction console in

device (on console, left of See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, place.

Wheelplex) 1960, NARA, RG 129. 

Speaker, for inmate radio system Figures CC2, CC5. Add to reproduction console in 

monitor (on console, left of See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, place.

Wheelplex, below watch call 1960, NARA, RG 129.

answering device speaker) 

Annunciator lamp panel and Figures CC2, CC5. Remove reproduction panel in 

switches, for interior phone See Appendix D: Durham to Kelley, February 9, place.

system (on console, far left of 1960, NARA, RG 129. Reproduce panel as shown in 

Wheelplex and speakers) illustration.

Cabinet, wood, two doors and Figures CC1, CC4 CC7 Use reproduction cabinet in 

two drawers (next to console) place. Replace hardware.

Calendar (propped on console) Figures CC1, CC4, CC7 Acquire.

Papers, pens, and pencils (on Figures CC1, CC2, CC4, CC5, CC7 Acquire.

console) 

Ashtray (on console) Figure CC4 Acquire.

Clipboard with armory “Effective immediately, the M-1 Control Center Acquire clipboard.

inventory (on console) Offi cer will be required to take an inventory each Reproduce inventory.

day of all fi rearms and gas equipment on hand in 

the Control Center.” E. Rychner, Captain, to Control 

Center, August 9, 1958, NARA, RG 129. 

Clock, wall, square, silver (on Figures CC1, CC4, CC5, CC7 Use clock in place.

wall above window) 

Light fi xtures, two, fl uorescent Figure CC7 Acquire.

(on ceiling) 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

188

Armory

The new Armory was built in 1960–61 and was included within the larger, secure Control Center. The old 

Armory included the Control Room for the prison and was the center for security and communications for 

the Main Prison Building, in addition to housing arms and ammunition in its vault. The new room designated 

as the Armory was designed exclusively for storage of weapons, ammunition, and other control devices such 

as billy clubs, gas masks, and gas canisters. 

The only photographic documentation of this room is two images, fi gures NA1 and NA2, taken shortly after 

the new Armory and Control Center opened in August 1961. The Armory walls were painted a light color, and 

dark wooden shelving and racks were installed throughout to store weapons and ammunition. It is likely that 

the red-brown linoleum squares used in the Control Center and throughout the Administrative Wing were 

used in this room as well.

Restoration and furnishing of the Armory depends on restoration of the Control Center, as visitors will view 

the Armory only through restored Control Center window panels. Only those furnishings that are visible to 

the public through the windows should be acquired and installed.

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Gun racks, wood, seven sets Figures NA1, NA2. Use original racks in place.

(two attached to west wall; two Physical evidence 

attached to north wall; three 

attached to east wall) 

Shelving, wood, (attached to Figures NA1, NA2. Use original shelving in place.

walls beneath gun racks) Physical evidence 

Carbines, .30-caliber, M-1, 30, Figure NA2. Acquire originals.

with web canvas ammunition “Firearms and Gas Equipment Inventory,” August Remove fi ring pins and spot-weld

pouches (on gun racks) 15, 1958, NARA, RG 129 fi ring bolts to render inoperable. 

Install screws through shelving

into butt-plates to secure.

Riot guns, Winchester, 12-gauge, Figure NA2. Acquire originals.

Model 1897, 20 (on gun racks) “Firearms and Gas Equipment Inventory,” Remove fi ring pins and spot-weld

August 15, 1958. fi ring bolts to render inoperable.

List of Custodial Equipment, March 6, 1963, NARA, Install screws through shelving

RG 129 into butt-plates to secure.

Rifl es, Winchester 30-06, Model Figure NA2. Acquire originals.

70, 12 (on gun racks) “Firearms and Gas Equipment Inventory,” August Remove fi ring pins and spot-weld

15, 1958, NARA, RG 129 fi ring bolts to render inoperable.

Install screws through shelving 

into butt-plates to secure.

Rifl es, Winchester, .22-caliber, Figure NA2. Acquire originals.

Model 52, four (on gun racks) “Firearms and Gas Equipment Inventory,” August Remove fi ring pins and spot-weld

15, 1958, NARA, RG 129 fi ring bolts to render inoperable.

Install screws through shelving 

into butt-plates to secure.

Revolvers, Colt, .38-caliber, Figure NA1. Acquire nonfi ring commercially

“Police Positive Special,” “Police,” “Firearms and Gas Equipment Inventory,” August available reproductions.

and “Police Positive,” 50 or 60 15, 1958. 

(on gun racks on south wall) List of Custodial Equipment, March 6, 1963, NARA, 

 RG 129 

Billies, gas, Model M-29, 15, Figure NA1. Acquire.

stored upright in cardboard box “Firearms and Gas Equipment Inventory,” August 

(on shelf on west wall) 15, 1958, NARA, RG 129 
189

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

Armory continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Boxes, cardboard, ammunition, Figures NA1, NA2 Reproduce.

80–100 (stacked on shelves under 

guns) 

Boxes, cardboard, unmarked, to Figure NA1. Acquire.

fi ll shelves (on shelves under guns) To store weapon cleaning supplies 

Oil cans, four, army-style, olive For use in cleaning weapons Acquire.

drab (on shelves under guns) 

Cleaning equipment and supplies: For use in cleaning weapons Acquire.

Cleaning patches

Cleaning rods (on shelves) 

Leg irons, black, Harvard brand, P. Madigan to Myrl Alexander, July 5, 1961, NARA, Acquire.

“light duty,” 20 (on shelves) RG 129 

Leg irons, USMC Tower Model P. Madigan to Myrl Alexander, July 5, 1961, NARA, Acquire.

1903, “very heavy type,” 20 (on RG 129

shelves) 

Handcuffs, black, Harvard, “light P. Madigan to Myrl Alexander, July 5, 1961, NARA, Acquire.

duty,” 40 (on shelves) RG 129 

Lighting fi xtures (install Physical evidence Use any original fi xtures in place. 

according to physical evidence) Restore or acquire reproductions 

 if necessary.

Sally Port

Major changes to the Sally Port occurred in 1934, when the Bureau of Prisons installed the three-gate security system, and in 1960–61, when an electronically controlled gate was installed as part of the new Control 

Center. Parts of the new gate system are visible in fi gures CC4, CC5, and CC7. Restoration of the electric sliding cyclone fence gate in the Sally Port is a preferred option, as the gate is integral to the upgraded security 

system installed in the 1960–61 Control Center, for which historic furnishings are recommended.

If, however, reconstruction and installation of the electric gate is delayed or deferred due to concerns about 

visitor traffi c fl ow, other recommended furnishings for this space should still be installed, as many of these 

furnishings remained consistent over most of the Federal Penitentiary period.

Color photographs taken in 1962 show light tan or beige painted fi nishes on the walls, with a slightly darker 

fi nish on woodwork surrounding the Cell House door and the doorway to the passage before the fi nal Sally 

Port door (fi gure SP7). 

Rolled linoleum fl ooring is waxed to a high shine in early photographs. See fi gures SP1, SP2, SP3, SP4, and 

SP5. The red-brown linoleum tiles installed throughout the Administration Wing during the 1962 renovation 

may have been installed in the entrance hall and Sally Port later. A former correctional offi cer recalled that 

new tiles were installed in 1961 when the new Control Center was built. These were “the big size; bigger than 

the regular 9 inch tiles used elsewhere in the building.”

New fl ooring was not laid in the area between the opening to the Sally Port door and the door itself, however, 

and 1962 photographs of this area show that the fl ooring is worn and uneven (fi gure SP7). 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

190

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Clock, wood, Ansonia (hanging Figures SP1, SP2, SP5, SP6, SP7, V1, V4. Acquire.

on wall above entrance to Sally This clock was left behind by the army. “Item 

Port door and gate) Justifi cation–1952 Equipment Budget,” May 8, 

1951, NARA, RG 129. 

Gun port (in wall, installed Figures SP1, SP2 Restore brass and ball coupling.

above clock) 

Box (mounted on frame to Sally Figures SP2, SP3, SP5, SP7. This may have been to Acquire.

Port door) hold check-out cards for correctional and/or 

administrative staff leaving the Cell House. 

Desk, wood, fl at top (to right of Figures SP7, V1 (facing west wall), V4 Acquire.

doorway, perpendicular to door) 

Chair, wood, swivel, with arms Figure V1 Acquire.

(at desk) 

Desk supplies, fi le trays, Figures V1, V4, SP7 Acquire.

papers (on desk) 

Ashtray (on desk) Figure SP7 Acquire.

Desk calendar, day-a-page, on Figure SP7 Acquire.

U-rings (on desk) 

Telephones, black, two (one on Figures V1, V4 Acquire.

wall and one on desk) 

File cabinet, dark metal (near Figures V1, V4 Acquire.

desk, against north wall) 

Clipboards, two, with papers Figure V1 Acquire boards and papers.

(hanging from side of desk) 

Visitors’ Room

The Visitors’ Room was remodeled in 1958 when new ceiling, wall, and fl oor fi nishes were installed. The old 

narrow visiting station windows were also paneled over at this time, and new larger windows were installed 

below. The recommended furnishings in this room refl ect the period after the remodeling, when acoustical 

tile ceilings, wood paneling, and new carpet were in place. As part of the historic furnishings project, ceiling 

treatments, wall paneling, and carpeting should be restored to their 1958 appearance.

Furnishings shown in fi gure V7, a photograph taken at or around the prison’s March 1963 closing, show 

an administrative work area set up on the north side of the Visitors’ Room. As discussed above, this group 

of furnishings may have been used by administrative staff displaced by the 1961–62 renovation of the 

Administration Wing, by lawyers interviewing prisoners, or occasionally by staff processing new prisoners. 

The list of furnishings includes recommendations to reproduce this arrangement of furnishings, but if visitor 

use patterns dictate a more sparsely furnished area, these recommendations should be reconsidered.

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Woodwork and windows, four Figures V5, V8 Restore based on physical 

visiting stations (north wall) evidence and photographs.

Speaker systems, four, intercom Figures V5, V8 Restore based on physical 

style (at visiting stations) evidence and photographs.
191

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

Visitors’ Room continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Curtains, two, dark blue or gray Figures V5, V7 Reproduce.

fabric (at east gate to Visitors’ 

Room) 

Chairs, three, wood arms, Figures V5, V7 Acquire period chairs and 

upholstered in tweed fabric (two reupholster.

near work table and one at 

visiting station) 

Ashtrays, two (on ledges Figure V5 Acquire.

beneath speaking panels) 

Coat rack, wood (near gate, in Figures V5, V7 Acquire.

southeast corner) 

Hangers, two, wood (on coat rack) Figures V5, V7 Acquire. 

Chair, typing, wood with Figure V7 Acquire.

upholstered seat and back, Reupholster as necessary.

swivel style, on casters (near 

window to Control Center) 

Bookcase, wood, three shelves, Figure V7. Acquire.

on curved feet (against south See also fi gure W14 for this bookcase or similar in 

wall, west of window to Control Warden’s Offi ce. 

Center) 

Books, to fi ll case (in bookcase) Figure V7 Acquire.

Desk lamp, metal (on bookcase) Figure V7 Acquire.

Radio, light-colored synthetic Figure V7 Acquire.

shell (on radio) 

Work table, wood, brass feet Figure V7 Acquire.

(perpendicular to south wall, 

west of Control Center window) 

Typing stand, painted metal, Figure V7 Acquire.

on coasters (between table and 

Control Center window) 

Typewriter (on type stand) Figure V7 Acquire.

Typewriter, electric (on work table) Figure V7 Acquire. 

Telephones, two, black, rotary, Figure V7 Acquire.

desk style (on work table) 

Ashtray, glass (on work table) Figure V7 Acquire.

Papers (on work table) Figure V7 Acquire.

Wastebasket, metal (north of Figure V7 Acquire.

work table) 

Carpet, wall-to-wall, brown Figures V5, V7. Acquire.

tweed, with padding (on fl oor) Business Manager to R. Meier, BoP, December 5, 

1958, NARA, RG 129 

Light fi xtures, six or eight, Figures V5 and V7 Restore based on physical 

square (mounted fl ush against evidence and photographs.

acoustical tile ceiling) 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

192

Times Square, Cell House

The desk and other furnishings in “Times Square,” located in the corridor before the entrance to the Mess 

Hall, probably remained relatively unchanged through the federal penitentiary era. Warden Johnston used a 

desk in this location during his tenure, and later the Associate Warden used a desk here when he wanted to 

interview inmates. Correctional Offi cers also used the desk to manage paperwork.

Figures P16, P17, P18, and P19 from the mid-1950s show two desks, a chair, a telephone and a clock in this 

area. Color photographs taken during the post-1960 interpretive period show the desk with accessories and a 

standing fi le in approximately the same place (fi gure P22). Figure P35 shows the Army-era Ansonia clock still 

in use.

Many, many visitors pass by this part of the Cell House daily, most on self-guiding tours. Furnishing the desk 

with “smalls,” or easily moveable furnishings such as calendars, papers, pens, and pencils is not practical due 

to the large quantity of unsupervised visitors. Therefore, it is recommended that the desk, chair, and wastebasket acquired for this section be of the period, but not associated with Alcatraz, and that the only furnishings exhibited be those that can be attached securely and unobtrusively to the desk.

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Desk, fl at-top, medium fi nish Figures P16, P17, P18, P19, P22 Acquire.

wood (in east-west corridor, west 

of Dining Hall entrance) 

Blotter, desktop (attached to Figure P22 Acquire.

desk) 

Ashtray, metal top with green Figure P22 Acquire.

bottom (attached to desk) 

Standing fi le (attached to desk) Figure P22 Acquire.

Chair, swivel, slat back, with Figures P16, P18, P19 Acquire.

arms, wood (at desk) 

Clock, wood, Ansonia, (hanging Figures P9, P16, P17, P18, P35. Acquire. Position according to 

on wall east of Dining Hall This clock was left behind by the army. “Item physical evidence.

entrance) Justifi cation–1952 Equipment Budget,” May 8, 

1951, NARA, RG 129. 

Light fi xtures, two, wall-mounted, Figures P16, P17, P18, P19, P35 Acquire. Mount according to 

single bulb, dark metal shades physical evidence.

with light interiors (mounted on 

walls east and west of Dining 

Hall entrance) 

Telephone, black, wall-mounted, Figures P16, P18, P19 Acquire. Mount according to 

top hand rest (mounted on wall physical evidence.

west of Dining Hall entrance) 

List of phone numbers, framed Figures P16, P18, P19 Reproduce. Mount according to 

(mounted west of telephone) physical evidence

Wastebasket, metal, dark gray Figures P16, P18, P19 Attach to fl oor if possible

or green square (near desk, west 

of Dining Hall entrance) 
193

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

A-Block Cell

Cells in A-block were not remodeled when the Bureau of Prisons took over the prison in 1934, and still retain 

their original cell doors and locks. A-block is not currently open to visitors, but the block and the furnished 

cell could be incorporated into a ranger-led tour program. 

Park staff should determine the most appropriate cell on the fi rst tier of A-block for historic furnishings treatment. If available, an original sink and toilet from A-block should be installed in the furnished cell, along with 

the push buttons for both. If original plumbing fi xtures are not available, they should be reproduced.

Finishes analysis is recommended to determine historic paint colors and application patterns. The cell and 

bars should be repainted based on these fi ndings and on treatments shown in fi gures C2 and C4. 

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Bunk, 28” × 81”, strap iron, Figures C2, C3, C4. If available, install original 

attached to wall with chain Similar bunks remain in the prison at Angel Island. according to physical evidence.

(mounted on wall) If original bunk is not located, 

 reproduce.

Mattress, military issue (on bunk) Figures C2, C4, C5, DB5, DB9. Fabricate.

Regulations and Information for the United States 

Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California, July 1, 

1928, in GGNRA Park Archives. (hereafter 

Regulations, July 1, 1928) 

Sheet, white cotton (on mattress) Figures DB5, DB9, C5, C2 Acquire.

Blankets, four, gray (folded at Figures DB5, DB9, C2, C5, C4. Acquire.

end of bunk closest to cell door) Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Pillow and pillow case, white Figures DB5, DB9, C5. Acquire.

cotton (on end of bunk closest Regulations, July 1, 1928 include “one pillow case,”

to cell door) but no pillow. 

Shoes, polished (under bunk) Figures C2, C5. Acquire.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Shelf, wood, painted to match Figures C1, C2, C4, C5 Fabricate and install according to

cell, with two or more metal physical evidence, if any.

hooks (on wall above sink) 

Towels, hand, two (hanging Figures C2, C4, C5. Towels are shown folded on Acquire.

from hooks) shelf in fi gure C1.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Clothing: Figures C1, C4, C5. Display clothing that prisoner 

Trousers Regulations, July 1, 1928 would not be wearing while in 

Coat Cell House.

Gloves (folded and stored on left Reproduce.

side of shelf) 

Whisk broom (on shelf) Figure C1 Acquire.

Comb and brush (on shelf) Figures C1, C4. Acquire.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Cup and saucer (on shelf) Figures C1 (cup only), C2, C4. Acquire.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Tooth brush and tooth Figures C1, C2, C4. Acquire.

powder, can (on shelf) Regulations, July 1, 1928

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

194

A-Block Cell continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Shoe polish and shoe brush Figure C1. Polish and brush may be among items Acquire.

(on shelf) pictured in fi gures C2 and C4.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Bible (on shelf) Figures C1, C2, C4. Acquire.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Prison regulations, bound Figures C1, C2, C4. Reproduce.

(on shelf) Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Book, fi ction, and magazines, Figures C2, C4. Acquire.

two (on shelf) Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Dictionary (on shelf) Figures C2, C4. Acquire.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Mirror (leaning against shelf) Figure C4. Acquire.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Package of cigarettes (on shelf) Figures C2, C4. Acquire.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Soap, bar (on sink) Figures C2, C4. Acquire.

Regulations, July 1, 1928 

Toilet paper, roll (next to toilet) Common usage. See later cell interiors, fi gures Acquire.

 C8, C11. 

Light fi xture, with tungsten Figure C5 and physical evidence. Reproduce electric outlet box and

bulb (in ceiling) Robert Bunge to Sanford Bates, November 17, install according to physical

1933, NARA, RG 129 evidence.

Acquire reproduction bulb.

1960s Cells

Maintenance and upgrades to cells and cell furnishings were constant throughout the Federal Penitentiary 

period. These changes were particularly plentiful during the 10 or so years before the prison closed in early 

1963. In 1955, prison administration instituted the fi rst commissary program at Alcatraz, allowing inmates to 

purchase directly arts and crafts supplies, guitar strings, selected sports equipment, and a limited number of 

games for the fi rst time. The same year, headphones and jacks were installed in all cells so that inmates could 

listen to one of two radio programs off ered each evening.

In 1960, new cabinet-style beds were received for the Cell House. These beds each had two storage drawers 

beneath the mattress. The Cell House and cell interiors were also painted in 1962. Photographic documentation of this late period is good, in part because the Cell House and individual cells were photographed in 

color after the June 1962 escape attempt. Cells in B- and C-blocks retain their original sinks and folding tables 

and seats.

The following lists provide recommended furnishings for one generic post-1960 cell after the new cabinet 

beds were installed, and for one of the escape cells. The original escape holes were repaired with steel plates 

by the Bureau of Prisons in 1962, but the park has reopened the historic escape openings, and as of autumn 

2003, has furnished cells 150 and 152 in B-block with props left behind by motion picture companies.
195

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

The furnished post-1960 cell should be located on “Broadway” on the fi rst tier, and should be far enough removed from the escape cell so that the “generic” cell does not appear to be part of the escape story. Interior 

waysides could be positioned outside both the escape and generic cells to provide additional interpretive information. 

The green and white paint scheme shown in fi gures C14, C17, C18, C19, and C20 should be reproduced in 

both furnished cells. Ceilings were painted white, as were the top halves of the cell walls. The folding seats 

and tables attached to the walls, the bottom halves of the walls, and the two shelves were all painted light 

green. Further analysis of all painted fi nishes within selected cells is recommended to determine accurate 

paint colors.

Furnished cells should be exhibited with the cell doors closed, and if theft or vandalism of historic furnishings 

through the bars is anticipated, a clear barrier should be installed behind the bars inside of the cells. 

1962 Cell

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Bed, cabinet style, painted light Figures C14, C16–C22. Locate and acquire original or 

yellow (against cell wall) P. Madigan to Director, BoP, October 17, 1960, fabricate.

 NARA, RG 129 

Bedding: Figures C14, C16–C22. Acquire reproductions or use 

Mattress (on bed) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised motion picture props if 

Sheets, two, white, cotton (one 1956, pp. 8–9 appropriate. 

on mattress, one as top sheet)

Pillow (at head of bed next to 

cell door)

Pillow case, white, cotton (on 

pillow)

Blankets, three, wool, olive drab 

or dark gray (one on bed, two on 

foot of bed) 

Shoes, men’s brown leather Figure C20. Acquire period or reproduction

Oxford style; and Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised shoes and socks.

Socks, men’s, brown (under bed, 1956, pp. 8–9

one sock stuffed in each shoe)

Toilet, white, (on wall at foot of Physical evidence. See fi gures C17, C18. Reinstall toilet in storage or

bed) acquire.

Toilet paper, roll (in ventilation Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised Acquire.

opening) 1956, pp. 8–9 

Cleanser, can (in ventilation Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised Acquire period piece.

opening) 1956, pp. 8–9 

Sink, white, with one faucet (on Physical evidence. Select cell for furnishing with

back cell wall, center) Figures C14–C20. intact sink, or reinstall sink in 

Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised storage. Some sinks had one 

1956, p. 8 faucet in the center of the 

backsplash, with an additional 

faucet installed in the wall over 

the sink unit. Others had two

faucets installed in the wall over

the sink. See fi gure C14.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

196

1962 Cell continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Soap, 2 cakes (on sink) Figures C15, C19, C20. Acquire two cakes, one for 

Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised washing and one for shaving.

1956, pp. 8–9 

Sink stopper (on sink) Figures C15, C19, C20. Acquire.

Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

1956, pp. 8–9 

Toiletries: Figures C14, C15, C16. Acquire period pieces or use 

shaving cup, tin Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised motion picture props if 

safety razor 1956, pp. 8–9 appropriate.

comb

nail clippers

toothpowder, can

toothbrush

shaving brush

Mirror, framed, for shaving (on Figures C14, C15, C16. Acquire or reproduce.

shelf above sink) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

1956, pp. 8–9 

Books, 10, subjects to include: Figures C14, C15. Acquire.

law Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

history 1956, p. 8

religion

(on top shelf) 

Pamphlet, Institution Rules and Figures C14, C15, C16. Acquire reproduction.

Regulations, 1956 (on shelf) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

1956, pp. 8–9 

Face towel (hanging on nail Figures C14, C15, C16. Acquire.

under bottom shelf) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

1956, pp. 8–9 

Rain coat or overcoat (hanging Figures C14, C15, C17–C20 Acquire or reproduce.

on wall under bottom shelf) 

Calendar (hanging on wall near Figure C15. Acquire 1961 or 1962 calendar.

shelves) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

1956, p. 8 

Box, painting supplies (on top See fi gure C15. Acquire.

shelf) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

1956, p. 8 

Painted canvas, unfi nished (on Figure C15. Fabricate.

foldout table) Planning Committee Minutes, August 2, 1955, 

 NARA,RG 129 

Palette with paint, brushes, Figure C15. Acquire.

jars (on foldout table and on Planning Committee Minutes, August 2, 1955, 

shelf) NARA, RG 129 

Ashtray (on foldout table or on Figure C20. Acquire or use motion picture 

shelf) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised prop if appropriate.

1956, pp. 8–9 

Cigarettes, package (on foldout Figures C17–C20. Acquire period package of Lucky

table or on shelf) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised Strike, Camel, or Chesterfi eld 

1956, p. 8–9. brand cigarettes.

Director, BoP, to Swope, October 5, 1949, NARA, 

 RG 129 
197

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

1962 Cell continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Wastebasket (under foldout Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised Acquire.

table) 1956, pp. 8–9 

Rags, cleaning (draped over sink Figure C15. Acquire.

pipe) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

1956, p. 9 

Headphone set and lead Figures C19, C20. Acquire or use motion picture 

(plugged into jack in wall) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised prop if appropriate.

1956, pp. 8–9 

Escape Cell, B-Block, Cell 150 or 152, June 1962

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Bed, cabinet style, painted light Figures C14, C16–C22. Locate and acquire original or 

yellow (against cell wall) P. Madigan to Director, BoP, October 17, 1960, fabricate.

 NARA, RG 129 

Bedding: Figures C19, C20. Acquire reproductions or use 

Mattress (on bed) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised motion picture props if 

Sheets, two, white, cotton (one 1956, p. 8–9 appropriate.

on mattress, one as top sheet)

Pillows, two (at head of bed next 

to cell door)

Pillow cases, two, white, cotton 

(on pillow)

Blankets, three, wool, one olive 

drab and two light tan (on bed) 

Dummy head, papier mâché Figure C20 Reproduce original in collection

with painted face and human or use motion picture prop if

hair attached (on bed) appropriate

Shoes, men’s brown leather Figure C20 Acquire period or reproduction

Oxford style; and Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised shoes and socks.

Socks, men’s, brown 1956, p. 8–9

(under bed, one sock stuffed in 

each shoe) 

Toilet, white, (on wall at foot of Physical evidence. See fi gures C17, C18, C20 Use toilet in place.

bed) 

Toilet paper, roll (on fl oor next Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised Acquire.

to toilet) 1956, p. 8–9 

Sink, white, with one faucet (on Physical evidence. Use sink in place. Some sinks had 

back cell wall, center) Figures C14–C20. one faucet in the center of the 

Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised backsplash, with an additional

1956, p. 8 faucet installed in the wall over

the sink unit. Others had two

faucets installed in the wall over

the sink. See fi gure C14.

Soap, 2 cakes (on sink) Figures C15, C19, C20. Use props; one cake is for 

Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised washing and one is for shaving.

1956, p. 8–9 

Sink stopper (on sink) Figures C15, C19, C20. Acquire.

Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

1956, p. 8–9 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

198

Escape Cell, B-Block, Cell 150 or 152, June 1962 continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Toiletries: Figures C14, C15, C16. Acquire period pieces or use 

shaving cup, tin Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised motion picture props if 

safety razor 1956, p. 8–9 appropriate.

comb

nail clippers

toothpowder, can

toothbrush

shaving brush 

Mirror, framed, for shaving (on Figures C14, C15, C16. Acquire or use motion picture 

shelf above sink) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised prop if appropriate.

1956, p. 8–9 

Clothesline, white cord (strung Figure C20 Acquire.

across cell, over sink) 

Towels, two, white with blue Figures C17–C20. Acquire.

center stripe (hanging on Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised 

clothesline) 1956, p. 8–9 

Raincoat (hanging below bottom Figures C19, C20. Acquire or use motion picture 

shelf, partially obstructing vent) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised prop if appropriate.

1956, p. 8–9 

Painted fake panel (near open See C17 for open vent and C20 for partially Reproduce.

vent) covered vent. 

Ashtray (on foldout table or on Figure C20. Acquire or use motion picture 

shelf) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised prop if appropriate.

1956, p. 8–9 

Cigarettes, package (on foldout Figures C17 through C20. Acquire period package of Lucky

table or on shelf) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised Strike, Camel, or Chesterfi eld 

1956, p. 8–9. brand cigarettes.

Director, BoP, to Swope, October 5, 1949, NARA, 

 RG 129 

Magazine (on table) Figure C20 Acquire.

Pencil and pens (on table) Figures C19 and C20. Acquire or use motion picture

Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised props if appropriate.

1956, p. 9 

Guitar (leaning on wall next to Figure C20. Acquire or use motion picture

table) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised prop if appropriate.

1956, p. 8–9 

Guitar case (under bed) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised Acquire.

1956, p. 8–9 

Headphone set and lead Figures C19 and C20. Acquire or use motion picture 

(plugged into jack in wall, Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, revised prop if appropriate.

headphones on bed) 1956, p. 8–9 

Kitchen

Furnishings in the Kitchen at Alcatraz will refl ect the period after the 1953 renovation, when the glass-block 

Steward’s Offi ce was installed in the center of the room, the steam kettles were moved, and other changes 

were made to the layout of the room. 
199

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

The Kitchen is separated from the Dining Room by a sliding, steel-barred gate. Currently, visitors enter the 

Kitchen only on guided tours. Only those Kitchen areas visible to visitors in the Dining Room will be furnished. Moveable interior waysides should be placed in the Dining Room area outside the Kitchen to provide 

interpretive support for the furnished Kitchen. Interpretive panels on the waysides can display historic photographs of the space and provide additional information about staffi ng, meal preparation, and working conditions in the Kitchen.

Historic white hexagonal tile remains on the Kitchen fl oor, and white rectangular tile remains on the walls. 

The glass-enclosed Steward’s Offi ce is still in place, although many of the glass panels need to be repaired or 

restored. The E. J. Chubbuck oven installed in 1950 remains on the north wall, and the bake oven still stands 

in the Bakery (not visible to the public). In addition, at least one original light fi xture has survived, suspended 

from the ceiling above the Steward’s Offi ce.

Finishes above the white tile dado should be analyzed to determine the appropriate color for the walls during 

the post-1953 interpretive period. Wall and fl oor tile should be restored as part of the historic furnishings installation, and the light fi xture(s), knife box, and oven in place should be cleaned and, if necessary, treated by 

a conservator as part of this project.

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Desk, metal or wood, fl at-top Figures K8, K9, K18 Acquire.

(in Steward’s Offi ce, facing south) 

Chair, straight back (at desk) Figures K8, K9. Acquire.

 Correctional Offi cers are using a chair behind the 

 desk. 

Chair, wood, slat back, swivel Figure K8 Acquire.

style (in corner) 

File cabinet, four drawer, wood Figures K8, K9, K18 Acquire.

or metal (in southeast corner of 

Steward’s Offi ce) 

Lamp, long neck with dark shade Figures K8, K9 Reproduce. Install according to 

(attached to south wall inside physical evidence.

Steward’s Offi ce) 

Oven, E. J. Chubbuck brand Figures K2, K3, K4, K5, K7, K8, K9, K18. Use oven in place.

(against north wall) Special Authorization, January 31, 1950; H. R. 

Taubken, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to 

Warden Swope, February 13, 1950, and Item 

 Justifi cation–1951 Equipment Budget, May 5, 1950 

and attachments, NARA, RG 129 

Work table, metal, with wheels Figures K8, K9 Acquire.

(between oven and Steward’s 

Offi ce) 

Hand mixer or beater (clamped Figures K8, K9 Acquire mixer/beater and clamp.

to tabletop) 

Bowl (with mixer/beater on table) Figure K8 Acquire.

Carton of milk or cream (near Figures K8, K9 Acquire reproduction carton.

mixer on table) 

Bin or waste can (against north Figures K8, K9 Acquire.

wall, next to oven) 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

200

Kitchen continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Cook pot, aluminum or stainless Figure K8 Acquire.

steel, two handles (next to bin, 

against north wall) 

Vertical mixer, Hobart or Figures M18, K18. Acquire.

Blakeslee brand (east of oven, George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions 

against north wall) Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 129. 

V. A. Craig, Food Administrator, Alcatraz to G. H. 

Leiser, Administrator of Food Services, BoP, October 

 31, 1959. 

V.A. Craig to G. H. Leiser, December 2, 1959, NARA, 

 RG 129 

Cart or wheeled table (behind Figures K8, K9 Acquire.

Steward’s Offi ce, west side) 

Dust pan, metal (leaning against Figure K17 Acquire.

pillar west of Steward’s Offi ce) 

Work table, wood top, hanging Figures K17, K18. Acquire.

drawers, metal shelf, metal legs George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions 

(oriented north-south, west of Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 129. 

Steward’s Offi ce) Warden Swope to Director, BoP, October 23, 1953, 

 NARA, RG 129 

Pitchers, three, aluminum (on Figure K17 Acquire.

work table) 

Bowl, metal (on work table) Figure K17 Acquire.

Jug, glass (on work table) Figure K17 Acquire.

Hand towels, four, white (on Figure K17 Acquire.

work table) 

Sink, metal legs and frame Figures K10, K17, K18 Acquire or reproduce.

(abutting work table, facing east) 

Dish sink, triple (north wall) Physical evidence Conserve and repair sink in place 

 or reproduce.

Table, stainless steel (in front of George Stouder, Submission of 1954 Institutions Acquire.

dish sink) Interiors [competition], 1954, NARA, RG 129 

Table, zinc or stainless steel top, Figure K17 Acquire.

white painted legs, center drawer, 

ball feet (against west Dish Room 

wall) 

Papers, held together with Clip Figure K17 Acquire clip. Reproduce food 

(hanging on wall above table) orders or other paperwork.

Fire extinguisher, brass, Figure M10. Acquire.

Crusader 21⁄2-gallon “Foamite” Item Justifi cation–1951 Equipment Budget, May 5, 

(hanging on Dish Room wall, 1950, NARA, RG 129

west of entrance to Dining Room) 

Knife locker (north of basement Figure K18 Use original in place.

stairs, built into Vegetable/Butcher 

Room wall) 
201

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Drying rack, stainless steel, for Mr. Sale, Supervisor, Culinary Operations, BoP, to Mr. Acquire. 

food trays (near Dish Room, Alexander, Assistant Director, BoP, February 13, 

southwest corner) 1952, NARA, RG 129.

 G. Jones to Director, BoP, July 6, 1961, NARA, RG 129

Trays, 200, aluminum, six- Figures M11, M20, M24. See Figure M19 for tray Reproduce.

compartment (on drying rack) on its own. 

Clock, electric (on south wall, Item Justifi cation–1952 Equipment Budget, May 8, Acquire.

above gate) 1951, NARA, RG 129 

Mop truck and Invitation, Bid, and Award, June 4, 1954, NARA, Acquire.

Mop (on east side of Kitchen) RG 129 

Dining Room

The Dining Room is currently open to visitors but is not furnished. This plan recommends furnishing the 

northern half of the west side of the room with reproduction tables, benches, cutlery, and steam tables. This 

area of the room includes the passages into the Dish Room where dirty trays and dishes were returned.

In view of the large numbers of visitors that pass through this area unescorted, this plan recommends that 

a system of barriers be installed around the furnishings and that furnishings be installed well away from the 

barriers. Additional reproduction tables and benches should be fabricated and installed outside the barriers 

for visitors’ use.

Furnishings in the Dining Room will refl ect the appearance of the room throughout most of the Federal 

Penitentiary period. Ten-man tables were used here from the disciplinary barracks period through October 

1962, and these tables and mess benches should be installed, along with aluminum cutlery and serving ware. 

Moveable interpretive panels can be used to exhibit historic photographs of the Dining Room and to introduce such ideas as the general volatility of prison mealtimes, the importance of exterior and interior control of the Dining Room, and the rules and routines governing inmates’ behavior inside the Dining Room. 

Interpretive panels can also address the switch to four-man tables in the Dining Hall in the late Federal 

Penitentiary period, noting the signifi cant impact this change in furnishings had on relationships and behavior 

within the room.

Historically, the Dining Room was painted in two colors—medium green on the bottom, and white or light 

tan on the top. Flooring in the Dining Room was brown or dark red linoleum, installed over waxed concrete 

in 1948. Further fi nishes analysis is recommended to determine historic paint colors and application patterns. 

Considerable repair to walls and reinstallation of reproduction linoleum fl ooring should be undertaken to 

prepare for installation of historic furnishings.

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Mess tables, varnished poplar Figures M2, M3, M10, M15, M16, M17, M21, M22, Reproduce seven tables; fi ve for 

tops with metal legs, fi ve M23, M24, M25, M27 historic furnishings installation 

(arranged in a row down west and two for visitor use.

side of Dining Room) 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

202

Dining Room continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Benches, wooden seats with Figures M2, M3, M10, M15, M16, M17, M21, M22, Reproduce 14 benches, 10 for 

metal legs, ball feet, 10 (on either M23, M24, M25, M27 historic furnishings installation 

side of mess tables) and four for visitor use.

Cups, aluminum or stainless steel, Figures M6, M10, M15, M16, M17, M21, M22, M24, Acquire reproductions.

50 (10 cups arranged at end of M25

each table closest to center of 

room) 

Pitchers, 10, aluminum or Figures M21, M22, M23, M24, M25, M27 Acquire reproductions.

stainless steel (two pitchers on 

each table, placed with cups) 

Salt and pepper shakers, fi ve Figures M6, M15, M16, M17, M21, M22, M25, Acquire reproductions.

sets, aluminum or stainless steel M27

(in center of tables) 

Forks and spoons, 50 each, Figures M15, M16, M17, M21, M22, M25, M27. Acquire reproductions.

aluminum or stainless steel (10 See also fi gure M7. 

forks and 10 spoons at each table) 

Menu board, black, with white Figures M3, M5, M7, M8, M9, M10, M11, M18, Acquire.

letters (hanging above barred M21, M26, M28, M29, M32, M33

opening to Kitchen) 

Steam table, one section, Figures M3, M8, M9, M10, M21, M24, M26, M28, Acquire.

stainless steel; M30, M31, M33 Position close to mess tables and

Five steam table insert pans, behind recommended barriers.

with lids; and 

Tongs and ladles, six (near 

Kitchen opening, shifted west 

from historic position shown in 

illustrations) 

Shelves, two, stainless steel Figures M8, M9, M10, M18, M21, M26, M28, M30, Fixture in place; restore.

(attached to grate separating M33

Kitchen and Dining Room, 

behind steam table) 

Steam table insert pans, two, Figures M8, M9 Acquire.

stainless steel; 

Pitchers, two, aluminum or 

stainless steel; and

Food containers, two, covered, 

thermal (stored on shelves) 

Trays, 300, six-compartment, Report of Excess Personal Property, April 24, 1956, Acquire.

stainless steel (in steam closet in NARA, RG 129.

north wall of Dining Room) Figures M13, M21.

 See fi gure M10 for steam closet with doors closed. 

Sink, utility, white enamel with Figures M10, M13, M17 Repair sink in place. Restore 

stainless steel plumbing fi xtures faucets and other fi xtures.

(on north wall, near tray storage 

closet) 

Tear gas discharge units, 10, J. Johnston to Director, BoP, April 21, 1934 and Use units in place.

painted to match walls (installed Specifi cations, Built-In Gas Equipment, June 1934, 

on ceiling beams and walls) NARA, RG 129. 

 Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison and the Men Who 

 Live There, p. 245.

Figures M3, M6, M7, M10, M12, M14, M16, M17, 

M21, M27, M30, M32, M33, M34 
203

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

Dining Room continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Light fi xtures, 12, enameled Figures M3, M9, M10, M11, M12, M17, M30, M32 Use reproduction fi xtures in 

refl ector shade, single bulb, dark place. See also GOGA 32404, in 

green exterior, white interior storage.

(installed in historic locations) 

Barber Shop

The Barber Shop was moved from the basement to the north end of A-block in late 1949. There were two 

barber chairs in the shop area, and prisoners were scheduled to receive a haircut every three weeks or so. 

Prisoners shaved in their cells, so equipment in this area was used exclusively for cutting hair.

Visitors view this area through the fence separating the Barber Shop from the A–B block corridor. Visitors do 

not walk through the A-block corridor on the east side of the Main Cell House except when on a guided tour.

Figures Bar2, Bar3, and Bar4 show the shop in the mid-1950s and provide the best evidence for furnishing this 

space. However, fi gures Bar2 and Bar3 show diff erent wall fi nishes, so further fi nishes analysis should be completed to determine appropriate treatment for the walls, baseboards, and area underneath the second-level 

walkway.

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Barber chairs, two (near south Figures Bar1, Bar2, Bar3, Bar4, Bar6 Acquire.

wall) 

Shelves, two (attached to south Figures Bar2, Bar3, Bar4 Use motion picture props in 

wall) place.

Mirrors, two, narrow wooden Figures Bar2, Bar3, Bar4 Acquire one; use motion picture 

 frames (on south wall) prop if appropriate.

Sink, white porcelain with Figures Bar2, Bar3, Bar4 Use sink in place; replace faucet 

chrome faucets (on south wall) handles.

Style chart (pinned to bottom of Figure Bar2 Reproduce or acquire.

mirror) 

Shaving mirror (on top shelf) Figure Bar2 Acquire.

Talc powder tin, striped (on top Figure Bar2 Acquire.

shelf) 

Tin cups, two (one on shelf, one Figure Bar2 Acquire.

in vent opening in wall) 

Cleanser, can (in vent opening Figure Bar2 Acquire.

in wall) 

Towels, fi ve (on stairs, chairs, Figure Bar2 Acquire.

and shelves) 

Can, small, toiletries (on shelf) Figure Bar2 Acquire.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

204

Barber Shop continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Electric clippers, two pairs; and Invitation, Bid and Acceptance, March 28, 1946 Acquire.

Barber combs, fi ve (on shelf) and Item Justifi cation–1951 Equipment Budget,

May 5, 1950, NARA, RG 129. 

Planning Committee Minutes, May 29, 1956, 

 NARA, RG 129 

Whisk or brush, wood handle Common usage Acquire.

(on shelf) 

Drape or cloth, white, two (one Common usage. See also Figure Bar1. Acquire.

on each chair) 

Light fi xture, enameled, dark Figures Bar2, Bar3, Bar4 Use motion picture prop.

exterior, white interior (install in 

original location) 

Clothing Issue Room

The Clothing Issue Room, located at the west end of the Shower Room, supplied inmates with laundered 

clothing in good repair. As specifi ed in the 1956 Regulations for Inmates, the inmate uniform consisted of “blue 

chambray shirt, Blue & White (B&W) trousers, web waist belt and issue shoes.” Supplies and uniforms stored 

in the Clothing Issue Room were strictly controlled. Prisoners were issued an extremely restricted range of 

garments, linens, and toiletries, in part to prevent these items from being used as a means of exchange. 

Control and care of uniforms for 200–300 convicts was a challenging responsibility for the custodial staff 

delegated to do this work. This area was operated by custodial staff , and prisoner access was limited. Most exchanges took place at the window in the fence separating the Shower Room from the Clothing Issue Room.

The historically furnished Clothing Issue Room will emphasize the regimentation and monotony of life at 

Alcatraz. Shelves full of identical inmate uniforms were stored in the room, which is also furnished with a 

desk, chairs, and work tables. Furnishings will refl ect the period between 1956, when the steel-beam reinforcement project was completed, and 1963, when the prison closed. The two historic photographs located 

for this report illustrate this period.

Visitors will view the entire room, with the historic fence providing security for the furnishings installation. 

Reproduction objects such as clothing, toiletries, and offi ce supplies should be placed as far away from the 

fencing as practical. Moveable interior waysides can display historic images of this space, as well as provide 

additional information about the inmate uniform, supported with detailed photographs of a historic or reproduced example.

Figure CR2 shows a white or light tan wall fi nish behind the shelving. As part of the restoration project, paint 

fi nishes should be analyzed to determine appropriate fi nish color for the interpretive period. Signifi cant repair 

and restoration of walls, ceilings, and window frames should be undertaken before interpretive media are installed in this area.
205

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Desk, metal, double pedestal Figure CR1. Acquire or restore original.

(against fence, facing east) List of property [1963], NARA, RG 129 (hereafter, 

“List of property, 1963.”) 

Chair, wood, swivel, with arms List of property, 1963 Acquire.

(at desk)

Paperwork; To record and track clothing Acquire.

Files;

Clipboard;

Pens;

Pencils; and

Stapler (on desk)

Shirt, light blue, chambray, torn To be repaired. Acquire or reproduce.

(on desk) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 10 

Cardboard boxes (stacked next Figures CR1, CR2 Reproduce.

to desk) 

Sign, “Inmates at This Window” Figure CR1 Reproduce.

(over window in gate, facing 

Shower Room) 

Table, metal, on rollers, wooden List of property, 1963 Acquire.

top (near desk) 

Typewriter, Remington (on table) Major Equipment Records, July 1, 1955, Acquire. 

 NARA, RG 129

Fire extinguisher, brass, Figure CR1. Acquire.

Crusader 21⁄2-gallon “Foamite” Item Justifi cation–1951 Equipment Budget, May 5, 

(hanging on pipe, north of desk) 1950, NARA, RG 129 

Metal shelving, seven sections List of property, 1963 Restore original shelving in place.

(against north wall)

Towels, face, white, 500 (on Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, pp. 6, 9 Acquire.

shelves) 

Sheets, white cotton, 300 (on Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 6 Acquire.

shelves) 

Pillow cases, white cotton, 300 Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 6 Acquire.

(on shelves) 

Blankets, gray or olive, 100 (on Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire.

shelves) 

Pillows, blue and white ticking, Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire.

100 (on shelves) 

Bathrobes, white, 50 (on shelves) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 10 Acquire.

Rain coats, black cloth, Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 10. Acquire.

navy-issue, 30 (on shelves) S. Andretta to J. Bennett, May 8, 1957, NARA, RG 129 

Trousers, culinary, white, 70 (on S. Andretta to J. Bennett, May 8, 1957, NARA, RG Acquire.

shelves) 129 

Handkerchiefs, blue and red, J. Johnston to J. Overlade, November 1, 1943 and Acquire.

300 (on shelves) attachment, NARA, RG 129 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

206

Clothing Issue Room continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Sweat shirts, 60, 12 each of fi ve Budget Planning Committee Meeting Minutes, April Acquire.

different colors (on shelves) 16, 1956, NARA, RG 129. “It was decided that the 

colored sweat shirts (have fi ve sets of 12, different 

colors) will be issued to the ball players . . . .” 

Pea coats, 50 (on shelves) List of Surplus Items Received, Jan.– Acquire or reproduce.

March 1955, NARA, RG 129 

Gloves: Receiving Report, November 15, 1962, GGNRA Park Acquire.

Canvas gauntlet-type, 240 pairs Archives Collection, Jack W. Fleming Alcatraz 

Canvas knit wrist, 480 pairs Collection

Leather work, 100 pairs

Leather face, canvas back, 

240 pairs (on shelves) 

Wooden shelving, fi ve cubicles Figures CR1, CR2 Use shelving in place. It is not 

wide by six cubicles high, eight clear whether shelving is original 

sections (against walls) or motion picture props.

Trousers, blue and white, Figures CR1 and CR2. Acquire.

lightweight denim, 200 pairs; Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 10.

Shirts, light blue, chambray, 200; A. Kaeppel to R. Meier, December 5, 1958, NARA,

Undershirts, white, cotton, 200; RG 129

Socks, white, 300 pairs; and

Shorts, white, cotton, 200 pairs

(folded in cubicles)

Table, wood, seven feet long (in Figure CR2. Acquire.

center of room, east to west) List of Property, 1963 

Laundry bags, canvas, fi ve (on Figure CR2 Acquire.

table and under bottom shelf) 

Towels, bath, white, 50 (on shelf Figure CR2 Acquire.

under table) 

Clothes bin, metal frame, with List of Property, 1963 Use frame in place. Fabricate

canvas sides or bag inserts canvas bags.

(against north wall) 

Clothes bin, on wheels, with Figure CR1 Fabricate or acquire.

canvas sides or bag insert (near 

north wall) 

Table, wood, 10 feet long, on List of Property, 1963 Use table in place. It is not clear

wheels (east side of room) whether table is original or a

 motion picture prop.

Marking machine (on table) For marking clothing. Acquire.

Major Equipment Records, July 1, 1955, NARA, RG 129 

Shirts, chambray, 10 (in stack on To be marked Acquire.

table) 

Cabinet, wood, two shelves, List of Property, 1963 Use cabinet in place.

four sets of doors, fronted with 

chicken wire (against south wall) 

Cans of toothpowder, white Figure CR2. Acquire or reproduce.

with red tops, 12 (on cabinet) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 
207

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

Clothing Issue Room continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Cakes, soap, 40 (on cabinet) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire or reproduce.

Cakes, shaving soap, 60 (on Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire or reproduce.

cabinet) 

Shaving cups, 12 (inside cabinet) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire.

Safety razors, 30 (inside cabinet) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire.

Packages, safety razors, 20 Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire.

(inside cabinet) 

Combs, in package or loose, 50 Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire.

(inside cabinet)

Nail clippers, 30 (inside cabinet) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire.

Toothbrushes, 60 (inside cabinet) Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire.

Shaving brushes, 80 (inside Regulations for Inmates, U.S.P., Alcatraz, 1956, p. 9 Acquire.

cabinet) 

Shower Room

Furnishings in the Shower Room are minimal. Light fi xtures consist of single bulbs without shades or a pendant style with a white refl ector, as shown in fi gure S5. Army-era mess benches were used in the shower area, 

lined up in between the pillars. These benches were documented to the Clothing Issue Room in a 1963 list of 

property developed when the prison closed.

As part of the 1955–56 project to repair and clean the supporting beams located in the area, the Shower Room 

was upgraded and painted. A green and light beige or tan paint scheme was in place by the end of 1956, and 

fi nishes in this area should be analyzed in order to correctly restore painted fi nishes to the fl oor, piping, walls, 

and pillars.

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Benches, army mess style (lined Figure S2. Reproduce.

up outside shower trough) List of property, 1963

Shower plumbing and shower Figures S2, S4. Reproduce and restore based on

heads (center of shower trough) Physical evidence physical evidence. Flat green

brackets visible in fi gures S2 and 

S4 are still in place.

Toilet, white ceramic (on south Figures S3, BP5. Repair or replace broken toilet in 

wall) Physical evidence place.

Sink, white ceramic, two chrome Figures S3, BP5 Acquire period sink.

or stainless steel faucets (on 

south wall) 

Urinal, white ceramic (on south Figures S3, BP5. Repair urinal in place as needed.

wall) Physical evidence

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

208

Shower Room continued

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Drinking fountains, white Figure S3 Acquire.

ceramic bowls (east and west 

ends of shower trough) 

Light fi xtures (on ceiling) Figures S2, S5. Reproduce.

 Physical evidence 

Lower Sally Port

The Lower Sally Port was a purely functional area containing few furnishings. Figures LSP1, LSP2, and LSP3, 

dated 1962, show freshly painted walls and a highly polished concrete fl oor. As with other rooms in the basement, fi nishes analysis is recommended for the walls, baseboard, and woodwork in this area to determine as 

closely as possible the correct colors of light and dark beige and dark green used here.

Upon arrival at the prison, convicts were handcuff ed to a railing attached to the north wall so that they could 

be safely searched. Most of the railing is still in place and is visible in fi gures LSP1, LSP2, and LSP3. The section of the railing nearest the door to the Shower Room has been removed and placed in curatorial storage in 

the basement of the Main Prison Building.

Period light fi xtures are not documented in the historic photographs, but reproduction light fi xtures based on 

originals located elsewhere in the basement should be installed in historic locations.

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Benches, army mess style, four Figures LSP1, LSP2, LSP3 Reproduce.

(two against south wall, two 

against north wall) 

Telephone, wall unit with Figure LSP1 Acquire and install according to

headset on top (on north wall) physical evidence.

List of telephone extensions, Figure LSP1 Reproduce.

framed (on wall next to 

telephone) 

Utility box (on north wall) Figures LSP1, LSP3. In place.

 Physical evidence

Cabinet, green, fi re hose (on Figure LSP2 Reproduce.

north wall, across from stairway) 

Light fi xtures (ceiling) Physical evidence Reproduce.

Library

Furnishings in the Library were updated in 1942 when the Library was relocated from the second fl oor of the 

Administration Wing to the south end of D-block, and again in early 1962. Furnishings recommendations will 

refl ect the later period, to support the early 1960s interpretive period established in other parts of the Cell 

House.
209

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING FURNISHINGS PLAN

Photographs taken in 1962 and after closing in 1963 illustrate the furnishings used in the Library, but give little 

evidence as to arrangement. It is known, however, that for custodial reasons it was important that inmates be 

visible over shelves. Any tall shelves were to be installed against the south and west walls.

Book titles are not provided in the list of furnishings, but lists of books held by the Alcatraz Library are available as appendixes to this report. Accurate titles need be provided only for those shelves visible to the visiting 

public; shelves not clearly visible should be full of period books in good to fair condition. Finishes analysis is 

recommended to determine the exact color of paint used on walls, windows, and pipes.

Visitor access to the furnished Library was not determined at the time this historic furnishings plan was developed. Final decisions as to visitor access to this room and direction of visitor traffi c will determine whether 

this space is furnished in full or whether only sections of the room are furnished. The list of recommended 

furnishings is based on visitors viewing the Library through bars and gates. Should visitors have complete access to this area, recommended furnishings can be modifi ed accordingly. 

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Shelves, light-colored wood, tall, Figure L7. Reproduce.

six (against walls) Custodial reports for December 1961 and March 

1962, NARA, RG 129 

Shelves, light-colored wood, less Figure L7 Reproduce.

than six feet tall, 14 (arranged in 

center of room) 

Books, various, fi ction and Figures L2–L6 Acquire period books.

nonfi ction titles, pre-1963 

publication dates, 1,500 

(arranged on shelves) 

Library tables, wood, four Figures L3, L7. Acquire.

(throughout library stacks) List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 

Chairs, wood, straight back, no Figures L1, L7. Acquire.

more than 10 (at tables) List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 

Typing stand, metal, (near tables) List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 Acquire.

Typewriter, Royal brand (on Major Equipment Records, Oct. 1952 and Dec. Acquire.

typing stand) 1955, NARA, RG 129

Paper and typing supplies (on Common usage with typewriter Acquire.

typing stand)

Card index stands, two (near List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 Acquire.

typing stand) 

File cabinets, metal, two List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 Acquire.

(against walls) 

Clock, wood, Ansonia (hanging Figures L3, L5. Acquire.

on pillar, facing east) This clock was left behind by the Army. “Item 

 Justifi cation–1952 Equipment Budget,” May 8, 

1951, NARA, RG 129 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

210

In Chaplain’s Office in northwest corner:

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Desk, wood, fl at-top Figure L1. Acquire.

(perpendicular to west wall, List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129

facing south) 

Chair, wood, no arms, swivel Figure L1. Acquire.

(at desk) List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 

File cabinets, metal, four-drawer, Figure L1. Acquire.

2 (in corner, behind desk) List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 

File trays, wood, 2 (on desk) Figure L1 Acquire.

Calendar, desktop style (on desk) Figure L1 Acquire.

Blotter, desktop style (on desk) Figure L1 Acquire.

Papers, pamphlets, pen, Figure L1 Acquire.

various desk supplies (on desk) 

Chair, wood, straight back (next Figure L1. Acquire.

to desk) List of library surplus [1963], RG 129, NARA 

Books, 11 religious titles, Figure L1 Acquire.

including Bible (on fi le cabinet) 

File box, wood (on cabinet) Figure L1. Acquire.

List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 

Wastebasket, metal (near desk) Common usage Acquire.

Telephone, black, desktop (on A telephone was installed in the Chaplain’s Offi ce in Acquire.

desk) August 1949. Monthly Statistical Report of 

Protestant Chaplains, August 1949, NARA, RG 129 

List of phone extensions and Figure L1 Reproduce.

calendar (hanging on side of fi le 

cabinet) 

Typing stand, metal (near desk) List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 Acquire.

Typewriter, Royal brand (on Major Equipment Records, Oct. 1952 and Dec. 1955, Acquire.

typing stand) NARA, RG 129 

Paper and typing supplies (on Common usage with typewriter Acquire.

typing stand) 

Coat rack, “old fashioned” (near List of library surplus [1963], NARA, RG 129 Acquire. 

Chaplain’s Offi ce) 
Illustrations

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

211
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

212
213

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING

Blue Prints

BP1 Plan of Cell House, Lt. Colonel R. B. 

Turner, Constructing Quartermaster, May, 

1908. 

BP2 “First Floor Plan of Rear Wing and 

Part of Cell Room of Military Prison at 

Alcatraz Isl. California,” Maj. R. B. Turner, 

April 1908. 

BP3 “Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary 

Barracks, Bldg. 68, First Floor Plan,” January 

1930. 

BP4 “Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary 

Barracks, Bldg. 68, Second Floor Plan,” 

January 1930.

BP5 “Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary 

Barracks, Bldg. 68, Basement Plan,” January 

1930. .

BP6 Building 68, Basement Plan, U.S. 

Penitentiary, Alcatraz, Calif. 

BP7 Building 68, First Floor Plan, U.S. 

Penitentiary, Alcatraz, Calif. 

BP8 Building 68, Second Floor Plan, U.S. 

Penitentiary, Alcatraz, Calif. 

BP9 “U.S.P. Alcatraz–Administration 

Area,” ca. 1940, drawn by Philip Bergen, former Captain of the Guard. NPS staff fi les, 

Alcatraz Island.

BP10 Alcatraz Main Prison Building fl oor 

plan, 2004. 

Exterior

EX1 Cell House under construction, 

south facade, 1911. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, GOGA 3078.

EX2 Prison, south facade, ca. 1912. 

EX3 Prison, south facade, ca. 1914. 

EX4 Prison, south facade, ca. 1915. 

EX5 Cell House, southwest view, 1910s. 

EX6 Cell House, 1920s. NACP, RG 77, 

Building Book, Alcatraz.

EX7 Prison, south facade, 1924 parade. 

EX8 Prison, southwest view, Army-era. 

EX Prison, south facade, 1929. NACP, 

RG 77, Building Book, Alcatraz.

EX10 Press tour, south facade, Attorney 

General Homer Cummings with Warden 

James Johnston, August 1934. 

EX11 South facade, with guard force, ca. 

1935. 

EX12 South facade, with guard force seated, ca. 1935. 

List of Illustrations

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EX13 South facade with staircase, May 

1942—ca. Dec. 1944.

EX14 Entrance, south facade, ca. 1940.

EX15 South facade with group, ca. 1940. 

Note venetian blinds and light fi xtures.

EX16 Western exterior, Administration 

Wing, ca. 1941.

EX17 Entrance, Administration Wing, ca. 

1944. 

EX18 South facade, memorial service for 

family of correctional offi cer killed in escape 

attempt, 1946.

EX19 Entrance, Administration Wing, 

Father Clark with unidentifi ed man, ca. 1950.

EX20 West side, Mess Hall Wing, ca. 1957.

Note mess hall gun cages.

EX21 South facade, post-March 1963. 

Disciplinary Barracks Period

DB1 Interior of Cell House during construction, ca. 1911.

DB2 Interior of Cell House during construction, ca. 1911.

DB3 Interior of Cell House during construction, ca. 1911. Note stairway, cell paint 

treatment, and toilets.

DB4 Army Block 6, also known as Dblock, ca. 1911. Before completion of Cell 

House. 

DB5 C-block, no date. Note tier numbering on wall.

DB6 Bridges at south end of tiers leading 

to second fl oor of Administration Wing, ca. 

1930.

DB7 A–B aisle, looking south, ca. 1930. 

Note door in wall to Commandant’s Offi ce.

DB8 A–B aisle, looking south, ca. 1930. 

Note door in south wall has been removed.

DB9 “Broadway,” B–C aisle, looking south, 

no date. Note change in cell paint treatment.

DB10 “Broadway,” B–C aisle, no date. Note 

lighting fi xtures.

DB11 Cell House interior, Oct. 20, 1933. 

Note wooden bridge and cell interiors.

DB12 Cell House interior, Oct. 13, 1933.

Federal Penitentiary Period

P1 Broadway, looking north, Federal 

Penitentiary opening day, August 20, 1934.

P2 Metal detector, 1936.

P3 Broadway, January 13, 1939.

P4 Cell House interior, 1934 or 1939.

P5 Press tour with Attorney General, 

Mayor of San Francisco, and Governor of 

California, August 1934. Note bunk folded up 

inside cell.

P6 Northwest corner of Cell House, 

between D- and C-blocks, no date. Door to 

right leads to Recreation Yard and door to 

left leads to D-block.

P7 Warden Johnston at door to 

Recreation Yard, May 5, 1946.

P8 May 5, 1946 press tour after riot, 

West Gun Gallery.

P9 Blackboard outside Dining Hall, ca. 

1950–51.
ILLUSTRATIONS

215

P10 C-block, December 27, 1954.

P11 C-block looking south, ca. 1955.

P12 C-block, 1956.

P13 C-block and two guards, 1956.

P14 Cell House interior with Gun Gallery, 

post-1946.

P15 Cut-off gates, center of cell blocks, 

no date.

P16 “Times Square,” north end of Cell 

House, outside Dining Hall, ca. 1955.

P17 “Times Square,” north end of Cell 

House, outside Dining Hall, ca. 1955.

P18 “Times Square,” north end of Cell 

House, outside Dining Hall, ca. 1955.

P19 “Times Square,” north end of Cell 

House, outside Dining Hall, ca. 1955.

P20 New portable metal detector, August 

1961.

P21 Broadway, looking north to Dining 

Room, ca. 1960–61. 

P22 Sick call, Times Square, ca. 19672.

P23 Gun Gallery, ca. 1962, guard pulling 

up key.

P24 Radio distribution panel in Gun 

Gallery, ca. 1962.

P25 Gun Gallery, ca. 1962.

P26 Convict at visiting panel, south end 

of Cell House, ca. 1962.

P27 Guards at desk, south end of Cell 

House, ca. 1962.

P28 Guard at desk, south end of Cell 

House, ca. 1962. 

P29 “C–D Street” the aisle between Cand D-blocks, looking north, ca. 1962.

P30 Convicts cleaning fl oors, ca. 1962.

P31 Metal detector, ca. 1962.

P32 Locking mechanism, cell house, ca. 

1962.

P33 Guard operating door mechanism, 

west end of outside B-block, ca. 1962.

P34 Guard unlocking cell doors, ca. 1962.

P35 Convicts walking towards Dining 

Room through “Times Square,” looking west, 

ca. 1962. 

P36 Guard in “Times Square,” looking 

east, March 12, 1963.

P37 Visiting area, May 1963. 

Recreation Yard

R1 Recreation Yard fi ght, 1910s.

R2 Recreation Yard, looking east, ca. 

1915.

R3 Recreation Yard, looking west, ca. 

1915.

R4 Recreation Yard during disciplinary 

barracks period, looking north.

R5 Recreation Yard during army turn 

over to Bureau of Prisons, ca. August 1934.

R6 Recreation Yard during army turn 

over to Bureau of Prisons, looking south, ca. 

August 1934.

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R7 Recreation Yard, looking north, 

April 19, 1941. Note steps and lack of cyclone 

fencing on walls.

R8 Convicts playing games in Recreation 

Yard, 1950s. Note tables and cushions.

R9 Convicts in Recreation Yard, 1950s. 

Note tables, cushions, baseball equipment, 

and fence separating baseball diamond.

R10 Metal detectors, west side of Main 

Prison Building, 1950s. 

R11 Convicts playing hand ball, 

December 27, 1954.

R12 Convict baseball game in Recreation 

Yard, looking west, 1955. 

R13 Convicts in Recreation Yard, looking 

north, ca. 1956. 

R14 Convicts playing baseball, ca. 1956.

Note fence separating baseball diamond 

from rest of yard.

R15 Convicts in Recreation Yard, January 

7, 1957.

R16 Convicts in Recreation Yard, no date. 

R17 Convicts in Recreation Yard, facing 

north, ca. 1960. Note fence, basketball uprights and net. 

R18 “A general northern view taken from 

the top of the prison building. The area immediately to the left and center is the recreation area and at the far end may be seen 

guard tower number 4 and guard tower 

number 3 and guard tower number 2. None 

of these guard towers are manned during the 

night. . . . 6/12/62.” 

R19 “Same general view as [R18] except 

that a larger portion of the recreation area 

is visible. . . . 6/12/62.” Note weightlifting 

benches, weights, barbells, and supports.

R20 Recreation Yard looking south, ca. 

1965. Note volleyball net.

R21 Recreation Yard, ca. 1965. Note folding stools.

Warden’s Offi ce

W1 Warden Johnston press conference 

after May 1946 riot.

W2 Warden Swope at desk, ca. 1950.

W3 Warden Swope leading meeting in 

his offi ce, ca. 1947–55. Note annunciator over 

fi replace.

W4 Warden Madigan with unidentifi ed 

man in his offi ce, ca. 1954–55. 

W5 Warden Madigan in offi ce, ca. 1954–

55.

W6 Warden Madigan and others at classifi cation hearing, 1958.

W7 Escape gear, 1962. Note table, sofa, 

and carpet.

W8 Model of Alcatraz in Warden’s offi ce, 

1962. Note chairs, sofa, carpet and side table.

W9 Training session, Warden’s offi ce, no 

date. Note clock and paintings.

W10 Training session, Warden’s Offi ce, ca. 

1955–61.

W11 Training session, Warden’s Offi ce, 

ca. 1955–61. Note chair upholstery and fi ling 

cabinet.

W12 Convict made shawl, Warden’s 

Offi ce, ca. 1955–61. Note clock and painting.
ILLUSTRATIONS

217

W13 Warden’s Offi ce, before May 3, 1963, 

when telephones were removed. Note portraits, window treatments, sofa, chair, lighting 

fi xtures and fl ag pole.

W14 Model of Alcatraz displayed in 

Warden’s Offi ce, 1963. Note ashtray stand, 

bookcase, sofa, and radiator cover.

W15 Model of Alcatraz displayed in 

Warden’s Offi ce, after closing, spring 1963.

Administrative Offi ces

AO1 Offi cer with Blood Donor Record, 

Disciplinary Barracks period.

AO2 Warden Swope with son, near 

Administration Wing entrance hall, ca. 1948–

53?.

AO3 Paul Madigan in offi ce, 

Administration Wing, southeast offi ce, no 

date. 

AO4 Captain Stucker in Administration 

Wing, southeast offi ce, no date. 

AO5 Unidentifi ed correctional offi cer in 

Administration Wing, southeast offi ce, no 

date.

AO6 1946 Fluorescent Lighting Plan, 

attachment to J. H. McFadden, Supt. of 

Construction to J. A. Johnston, Warden, 

February 28, 1946.

AO7 Escape equipment display, no date.

AO8 Lt. Emile Rychner in Administration 

Wing, southeast offi ce, no date.

AO9 Unidentifi ed offi ce worker in 

Administration Wing, ca. 1962. Note new offi ce partitions.

AO10 Unidentifi ed offi ce worker in 

Administration Wing, ca. 1962.

AO11 Fluorescent lighting fi xtures, 

Administration Wing, ca. 1959.

AO12 Fluorescent lighting fi xtures, 

Administration Wing, ca. 1959. Note venetian 

blinds.

AO13 Model of Alcatraz Island, in 

Administration Wing, May 1963. Note fl ooring and color of partitions.

AO14 Model of Alcatraz Island, in 

Administration Wing, May 1963. Note new 

partitions through open doorway.

Sally Port

SP1 Sally Port with unidentifi ed correctional offi cers, no date.

SP2 Sally Port, pre-1944. Note overhead 

lighting fi xture, radiator, and clock.

SP3 Sally Port door leading to Cell House, 

no date.

SP4 Administration Wing entrance and 

metal detector, before 1962.

SP5 Sally Port, pre-1962.

SP6 Sally Port, ca. 1956. Left to right: Bill 

Russell, University of San Francisco basketball player; Offi cer George DeVincenzi; K. C. 

Jones, University of San Francisco basketball 

player; Captain Emil Rychner, and Father 

Richard Scannell. Russell and Jones were 

players on the nationally ranked University of 

San Francisco team in the mid-1950s.

SP7 Two offi cers at Sally Port door, ca. 

1962. Note clock and desk.

Old Armory

OA1 Old Control Center, post-1946 and 

pre-1957.

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OA2 Old Control Center, March 1956.

OA3 Annotated armory console, ca. 1956.

OA4 Key board, old Control Center, 

March 1956.

OA5 Offi cer in old Control Center, preAugust, 1961.

Control Center

CC1 New Control Center with correctional 

offi cer, September 1961 or 1962.

CC2 New Control Center, looking east, 

August 1961.

CC3 Control Center key locker, August 

1961.

CC4 New Control Center with correctional offi cer, looking northeast, 1962.

CC5 New Control Center, 1962.

CC6 New Control Center, pass window, 

1962.

CC7 New Control Center, post-1963.

New Armory

NA1 New Armory, pistols, August 1961. 

NA2 New Armory, rifl es, August 1961.

Visitors’ Room

V1 Visitors’ Room looking east, ca. 1940. 

V2 Visitors’ Room, 1946. The convict on 

the left is probably meeting with his lawyer.

V3 Visitors’ Room looking west, ca. 1954.

V4 Visitors’ Room looking east. Note 

Sally Port guard’s desk visible through the 

gate. The “visitors” on the phones are probably Alcatraz administrative staff demonstrating the communication system.

V5 Visitors’ Room, looking west, post1958 renovation. Note new woodwork, 

acoustical tiles, and curtain at gate. The stairway shown in V3 has been walled in.

V6 Inmate at communication window to 

Visitors’ Room, ca. 1962. Note that early vision panels have been boarded up.

V7 Visitors’ Room, facing east, 1963. The 

south side of the room is being used by administrative staff . The framed opening on the 

south wall leads to the new Control Center, 

and the hinged door in the paneling provides 

access to switch boxes and junction boxes.

V8 Visiting area, looking northwest, 

post-1963 closing. The rectangular opening 

in the foreground is one of the new vision 

panels, installed in 1958; the wedge-shaped 

piece below the window supported the telephone to the Cell House. The square panel 

with a handle covers one of the gun ports 

installed after the 1946 riot. 

Cells

C1 Illustration from General Orders, 

No. 14, May 21, 1915, Pacifi c Branch, United 

States Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, 

California.

C2 Disciplinary barracks-era cell, ca. 

1920s.

C3 “Original cell bed, 1959.”

C4 Disciplinary barracks-era cell, 

October 20, 1933.
ILLUSTRATIONS

219

C5 Army guard in disciplinary barracksera cell, ca. 1933. Note cell number and prisoner registry number painted over the cell 

door.

C6 Cell interior, fi rst tier of B-block, east 

side, ca. 1940.

C7 Warden Johnston inspecting 1946 

riot “hostage” cell, May 1946.

C8 Inmates James Pivaroff (with guitar) 

and Edgar Cook, ca. 1950–55.

C9 Cell interior, March 16, 1956.

C10 Cell interior, March 17, 1956.

C11 Cell interior, ca. 1956.

C12 Cell plan, 1956.

C13 Unidentifi ed inmates in cells, ca. 

1950s.

C14 Cell interior, ca. 1962. 

C15 Inmate painting in cell, ca. 1962.

C16 Cell interior, ca. 1962.

C17 Correctional offi cer in 1962 escape 

cell.

C18 1962 escape cell.

C19 1962 escape cell.

C20 1962 escape cell.

C21 Furnished cell interior on 

“Broadway,” south end of C-block, ca. 1963–

64. This cell was furnished by caretaker John 

Hart to show visitors after the prison closed.

C22 Furnished cell, May 1963.

C23 Cell interior, post-closing, ca. 1965.

C24 Indian occupier in cell, ca. 1970.

A-Block Cells

AB1 Henry Young trial evidence photograph, May 1, 1941.

AB2 Henry Young trial evidence photograph, May 1, 1941.

AB3 Interior A-block cell, Henry Young 

trial evidence photograph, May 1, 1941.

AB4 Gate between A-block and Barber 

Shop, north end of A-block, no date.

AB5 A-block, looking south, 1950. Note 

stools and chairs in corridor.

AB6 Desk in A-block corridor, ca. 1962.

AB7 A-block and Army-era spiral stairs, 

looking north, ca. 1962.

AB8 A-block, looking south, ca. 1962.

AB9 A-block cell, with administrative staff 

offi ce, ca. 1962.

D-Block Cells

D1 Army-era Block 6, later known as 

D-block, looking south, August 27, 1930.

D2 Army-era Block 6, later known as Dblock, looking north, ca. 1930.

D3 Blueprint of D-block made after 1939 

escape.

D4 “Corridor of cell block in front of 

cells from which escape made. Photograph 

taken from direction of Warden’s Offi ce 

[north],” 1939.

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D5 “Corridor of cell block in front of 

cells from which escape made. Looking towards offi ce [north],” 1939.

D6 “Cell of Rufus Roy McCain,” 1939.

D7 “Cell of Dale Stamphill,” 1939.

D8 Construction of D-block isolation 

cells, looking south, 1941.

D9 Construction of D-block isolation 

cells, looking north, 1941.

D10 Construction of D-block isolation 

cells, looking north, 1941.

D11 Newly constructed D-block isolation cells, 1941. Note bunks inside solid front 

cells.

D12 D-block solid-front cells, 1941.

D13 D-block solid-front cell, 1941. Mesh 

over interior bars was eventually removed so 

that guards could see inmates inside cells.

D14 Control panel for D-block locking 

mechanism, 1941.

D15 Control panel for D-block locking 

mechanism, third tier, 1941.

D16 Cell locking device, from “Control 

System of Locks for Prison Cell Doors,” April 

1941.

D17 Shower cell, D-block, 1941.

D18 D-block cells, 1941. Note that bunks 

have not yet been installed.

D19 D-block cells with bunks, 1941.

D20 D-block cell interior without bunk, 

1941.

D21 D-block cell interior with bunk and 

bedding, 1941.

D22 Stairway, north end of D-block, no 

date. Grating has not yet been installed over 

Gun Gallery, so photograph predates May 

1946 riot.

D23 D-block cell interior with cast aluminum sink and toilet, post-1955.

D24 D-block, looking south, May 1963.

Barber Shop

Bar1 Army Barber Shop located in basement, facing north, 1930.

Bar2 Barber Shop located in north end of 

A-block, ca. 1955.

Bar3 Barber Shop, A-block, December 27, 

1954.

Bar4 Barber Shop, A-block, March 24, 

1956.

Bar5 Barber Shop, A-block, northeast corner, January 24, 1962.

Bar6 Barber Shop, A-block, from above, 

facing northeast corner, January 24, 1962.

Library

L1 Chaplain Byron Eshelman at his desk 

in the southwest corner of the Library, ca. 

1949.

L2 Library, ca. 1954. Note the wood offi ce desk in the stacks.

L3 Convict library assistants in library 

stacks, no date. Note Army-era Ansonia clock 

and wood library tables.
ILLUSTRATIONS

221

L4 Library, June 1961. One of two photographs enclosed in correspondence to illustrate how “very unattractive” the library 

was at this time.

L5 Library, June 1961. One of two photographs enclosed in correspondence to illustrate how “very unattractive” the library 

was at this time.

L6 Library, 1962.

L7 Library after closing, May 1963.

Kitchen

K1 Kettles in center of Kitchen, October 

20, 1933.

K2 Inmate Pivaroff in Kitchen, facing 

west, 1951–53. Note that the oven was installed in late 1950 or early 1951, and the work 

table was relocated in 1953.

K3 Inmate Pivaroff in Kitchen, facing 

north, 1951–53.

K4 Inmate Pivaroff in Kitchen, facing 

northeast, 1951–53.

K5 Inmate Pivaroff in Kitchen, facing 

northeast, 1951–53. Note the door to the 

Bakery east of the oven.

K6 Culinary Department staff member 

with Oliver-brand bread slicer, pre-1953. 

The metal shelves attached to the gate on the 

Dining Room side serve as a back bar for the 

steam tables.

K7 “Recommendation for 

Rearrangement of Equipment,” ca. 1951.

K8 Steward’s offi ce, facing north, ca. 1953.

K9 Steward’s offi ce, facing northwest, 

1950s.

K10 West side of Kitchen, ca. 1953.

K11 South side of Kitchen, post-1953.

K12 New ice maker, 1961.

K13 West side of Kitchen, 1962.

K14 Bakery, in northeast corner of 

Kitchen, 1950s.

K15 Bakery, 1950s.

K16 Bakery, 1962.

K17 Kitchen, facing northwest, 1963.

K18 Plan of Kitchen, undated, post-1953.

K19 Basement Butcher Shop, 1950s. 

Dining Room (Mess Hall)

M1 Army Mess Hall, ca. 1915. Note 

Quartermaster-issue stools, plates, cups and 

spoons. Two swinging doors in the north wall 

provide access to the Kitchen.

M2 Mess Hall, ca. 1933.

M3 Dining Room, facing north, pre-1948. 

Note polished concrete fl oor. Linoleum was 

installed in 1948.

M4 Mess Hall gas release switches, probably 1934–35.

M5 September 25, 1948 menu.

M6 Table settings, Dining Room, 

Christmas 1948. 

M7 Culinary Department inmate staff , 

Dining Room, December 25, 1948. Left to 

right: Pivaroff , Karabelas, Flemming, Sanford, 

Barkdoll, Pyles, Karpis, Lovett, Stallings and 

Burton.

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M8 Pivaroff at steam table, December 25, 

1948.

M9 Dining Room steam tables, facing 

north, September, 1941–53. Note that the 

shelving behind the steam tables was installed around 1941–42 and the steam kettles 

visible in the background were moved in 

1953.

M10 Dining Room with steam tables and 

cart, August 12, 1954.

M11 Meal line, Dining Room, December, 

1954. Note the cart or truck holding aluminum trays acquired in 1952.

M12 Entrance to Dining Room, 1954.

M13 Utility sink, tray storage, and service 

windows, north wall, Dining Room, ca. 1954.

M14 Band set up in Dining Room north of 

Kitchen entrance, ca. 1950–51.

M15 Offi cer [?] Kirkpatrick in Dining 

Room, 1956.

M16 Correctional offi cer in Dining Room, 

1956. Note painted wainscot.

M17 Dining Room, facing northwest, 

March 13, 1956.

M18 Menu Board, March 13, 1956.

M19 Window, south side, Dining Room, 

ca. 1960. Note the aluminum trays and cups 

on the table. Glass bricks were installed in 

the west windows before May 1960.

M20 Inmates entering Dining Room, facing south, ca. 1960. Note the trays on the tray 

rack and the coff ee urn at far left.

M21 Dining Room, facing northwest, ca. 

1960.

M22 Correctional Offi cer checking tables, 

Dining Room, ca. 1960.

M23 Inmates at coff ee urns, ca. 1960.

M24 Steam tables and tray rack in Dining 

Room, facing south, no date.

M25 Inmates and Correctional Offi cer at 

mess table, Dining Room, no date.

M26 Dining Room with ten-man mess 

tables, facing north, 1961.

M27 Dining Room with ten-man mess 

tables, facing southwest, 1961.

M28 Dining Room with new four-man 

mess tables, facing north, October 1961.

M29 Dining Room with new four-man 

mess tables, facing north, October 1961. Note 

framed picture on west wall.

M30 Inmate band, Christmas 1961 or 1962, 

facing northwest.

M31 Inmates at steam table, facing east, 

1962.

M32 Inmates and Correctional Offi cers 

approaching steam tables, facing north, 

1962.

M33 Inmates and Correctional Offi cers at 

meal time, facing north, 1962.

M34 Inmates at four-man tables, facing 

north, 1962. The tablecloths and inmate band 

indicate that this image was probably taken 

on a holiday.

Chapel and Auditorium

CA1 Father Joseph Clark and unidentifi ed man in front of Alcatraz altar, ca. 1946. 

On back of original Clark wrote: “I gave the 

inmates a bronze plaque of the Last Supper 
ILLUSTRATIONS

223

and they built this altar, candlesticks and all, 

out of mahogany.”

CA2 Altar in Chapel/Auditorium, ca. 

1946–49.

CA3 Byron Eshelman, chaplain, in front 

of altar, ca. 1946–49. Eshelman served on 

Alcatraz from November 1946 through 

November 1949.

CA4 Chapel with movie screen behind altar, ca. 1946–49.

CA5 Correctional offi cers’ training session, ca. 1949.

CA6 Correctional offi cers’ training session, 1946. 

CA7 Altar, no date. 

CA8 Altar, no date.

CA9 Altar set up for Catholic service, 

1963.

CA10 Trapdoor over stairway to chapel, no 

date.

CA11 Inmate projectionist, ca. 1941. 

Offi cers’ Dining Room

ODR1 Progress Review Board, meeting in 

Classifi cation Meeting Room, southern part 

of second fl oor Administration Wing, ca. 

1947–55. Left to right: Protestant Chaplain 

Byron Eshelman; Associate Warden Paul 

Madigan; Captain of Guards; Warden Edwin 

Swope; clerk; Superintendent of Prison 

Industries; Catholic Chaplain Joseph Clark.

ODR2 “Meeting of Alcatraz Classifi cation 

Committee in meeting room above warden’s offi ce/Left to Right:/?/Cornelius 

Manning, Supt. Ind./Rev. Joe Clark, Catholic 

Chaplain/?/Paul Madigan, Warden/Nova 

Stucker, Assoc. Warden,” no date.

ODR3 Correctional offi cers and inmate 

server, ca. 1960.

ODR4 Warden Madigan and guests, 

Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960.

ODR5 James “Blackie” Audett and Warden 

Madgan, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, 

July 1960.

ODR6 James “Blackie” Audett and Warden 

Madigan, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, 

July 1960.

ODR7 Inmate servers, Offi cers’ Dining 

Room reception, July 1960.

ODR8 “Blackie” Audett serving, ca. 1960–61.

ODR9 Guests, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960.

ODR10 Guests, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960.

ODR11 Warden Madigan and guests, 

Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960.

ODR12 Guests and staff , Offi cers’ Dining 

Room reception, July 1960.

ODR13 Staff and convict waiter, ca. 1960–61. 

ODR14 Offi cers’ dining room, ca. 1961.

ODR15 Staff and convict waiter, ca. 1960–61.

ODR16 Offi cers’ Dining Room, ca. 1961.

ODR17 Offi cers’ Dining Room, facing east, 

ca. 1960–61.

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224

Hospital

H1 Floor plan of hospital wing, ca. 1912–

21.

H2 Dispensary partition, 1918.

H3 “New Stainless Metal Sink, Post 

Hospital Kitchen, Building No. 68 (a)” and 

“Tiling on walls–Post Hospital Kitchen and 

Scullery, Building No. 68 (a),” 1933.

H4 Main hospital ward, facing north, 

pre-1952. Note door to bathroom in far right. 

Note World War I-era beds and Army-era 

medicine cabinets.

H5 Entrance area and waiting room, 1937.

H6 Outpatient room, ca. 1938. The 

square black machine in the center is an 

electrocautery machine, also known as an 

electric “Bovie” after its inventor. The center 

cabinet holds bandages, and the cabinet on 

the right holds chemicals and pharmaceuticals. In the center of the room is a gurney or 

operating table.

H7 Outpatient room, ca. 1938. Note the 

autoclave in the northeast corner and the IV 

pole next to the sink. The photographer took 

this image from the opposite side of the gurney shown in fi gure H6.

H8 Autoclave or surgical sterilizer, view 

of southeast corner, ca. 1940. This equipment 

is similar to that shown in fi gure H7.

H9 Operating room, ca. 1938. At far left is 

a light pole and a stool for the anesthesiologist. The bar arching over the operating table 

is an ether screen. A cloth drape was put over 

the screen to divide anesthesia from surgery 

and to protect the sterile area. The table in 

the corner was called the “back table” and 

held most of the surgical instruments. The 

“Mayo stand” at far right held instruments 

used immediately in surgery. The buckets in 

the foreground are known as “kick buckets” 

and were used to keep track of used sponges 

during surgery.

H10 Operating room, view of northeast 

corner, ca. 1938. Note the operating room 

light above and the cabinet at right used to 

store supplies and instruments. A machine 

or instrument in the back of the room is covered to keep it clean. Furnishings are smooth 

enameled metal and have no corners so they 

can be cleaned and disinfected easily.

H11 Ward room, ca. 1938.

H12 Ward room, ca. 1938.

H13 Fluorescent lighting plan, second 

fl oor, north end, hospital, February 1946.

H14 X-ray room, 1940s. The square black 

cassette holder holds the fi lm. It is mounted 

on a tripod and wheels so that it is moveable. 

The X-ray machine is the black camera-like 

object attached to the overall X-ray unit. The 

hand control is attached to the pole, at far right. 

The X-ray operator placed the plate on the 

table, and the patient lay on top of the plate.

H15 Hydrotherapy room with heat lamp, 

ca. 1940s. Note white enamel bathtub in 

southeast corner and whirlpool tub against 

east wall.

H16 Wire mesh “cages” used as cells for 

mentally ill patients, pre-1956.

H17 Three-man ward cell, December 27, 

1954.

H18 Hospital entry, looking east through 

gated entry, no date.

H19 Glass brick windows on west side of 

hospital wing, post 1958.

H20 Three-man hospital ward cells, post1952.
ILLUSTRATIONS

225

H21 Dental offi ce, no date.

H22 Three-man ward cells, 1962.

H23 Three-man ward cells, 1962.

H24 Dental unit, 1962.

H25 Outpatient room, 1962. Note that the 

gurney has no brakes, so it is stabilized by 

blocks. The gurney, or table, is shown in the 

ca. 1938 photograph, as is the supply cabinet, 

the stool, and the Army-era wooden chair.

H26 Outpatient room, 1962.

H27 X-ray room, 1962. Note new X-ray 

unit. The MTA is placing the X-ray cassette 

(the fi lm within the fi lm holder) under the 

patient. The arm above the patient is the 

X-ray machine itself, which is mounted on 

either the wall or the table. A draped X-ray 

plate appears on the right side of the patient. 

Circuit breakers on the wall at right are located so that electrical power to the room 

could be shut off immediately in case of fi re 

or other problem in the room.

H28 Robert Stroud’s isolation cell, 1963.

Lower Sally Port

LSP1 Convicts departing Alcatraz, Lower 

Sally Port, facing west, 1962. Note Correctional 

Offi cer applying prisoner’s leg irons.

LSP2 Convicts departing Alcatraz, Lower 

Sally Port, from stairs above, 1962.

LSP3 Correctional Offi cers putting away 

handcuff s and leg irons, Lower Sally Port, 

facing west, 1962. Note canvas bag for storing 

restraints and fl ash lights.

Clothing Issue Room

CR1 Clothing Issue Room, west side of 

Shower Room, 1950s.

CR2 Clothing Issue Room, ca. 1961–62. 

Note shelving containing inmates’ clothing.

Shower Room

S1 Shower Room, facing east, pre-1956. 

The marble shower dividers were painted 

black sometime before 1953.

S2 Shower Room, facing west, ca. 

1961–62. The Clothing Issue Room is visible 

in front of the windows.

S3 Shower Room, southeast corner, 

post-1963 closing.

S4 Shower Room, during 1969–71 

American Indian occupation. Note junction 

boxes used as soap holders.

S5 Original light fi xture, Shower Room, 

2002.

Band Practice Room

BR1 Band practice room, facing northwest, early 1950s.

BR2 Band practice room, facing south, 

early 1950s.

BR3 Band practice room, facing south, 

early 1950s. Note instrument cases on fl oor at 

left. 

Dungeon

Dun1 Floor plan of 1929 Cell House basement with cells highlighted.

Dun2 “Dungeon” cells in Cell House basement, published in San Francisco News, May 

17, 1933.

Dun3 Guard with remains of dungeon cells, 

Cell House basement, ca. 1962.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

226

Illustrations
227

ILLUSTRATIONS

 Blue Prints

BP1 Plan of Cell House, Lt. Colonel R. B. Turner, Constructing Quartermaster, May, 1908. 

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), Record Group (RG) 92, Records of 

the Offi ce of the Quartermaster General.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

228

BP2 “First Floor Plan of Rear Wing and Part of Cell Room of Military Prison at Alcatraz Isl. 

California,” Maj. R. B. Turner, April 1908. NARA, RG 92.
229

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

BP3 “Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Bldg. 68, First Floor Plan,” January 1930. NARA, 

RG 77, Records of the Offi ce of the Chief of Engineers.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

230

BP4 “Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Bldg. 68, Second Floor Plan,” January 1930. 

NARA, RG 77, Records of the Offi ce of the Chief of Engineers.
231

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

BP5 “Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Bldg. 68, Basement Plan,” January 1930. NARA, 

RG 77, Records of the Offi ce of the Chief of Engineers.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

232

BP6 Building 68, Basement Plan, U.S. Penitentiary, Alcatraz, Calif. The Stewart Iron Works Co., ca. 

1933–34. Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) Park Archives Collection.
233

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

BP7 Building 68, First Floor Plan, U.S. Penitentiary, Alcatraz, Calif. The Stewart Iron Works Co., 

ca. 1933–34. GGNRA Park Archives Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

234

BP8 Building 68, Second Floor Plan, U.S. Penitentiary, Alcatraz, Calif. The Stewart Iron Works Co. 

ca. 1933–34. GGNRA Park Archives Collection.
235

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

BP9 “U.S.P. Alcatraz–Administration Area,” ca. 1940, drawn by Philip Bergen, former Captain of 

the Guard. NPS staff fi les, Alcatraz Island.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

236

BP10 Alcatraz Main Prison Building fl oor plan, 2004. Golden Gate National Recreation Area fi les.
237

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

Exterior

EX1 Cell House under construction, south facade, 1911. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, GOGA 

3078.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

238

EX2 Prison, south facade, ca. 1912. National Archives, College Park, MD (NACP), RG 77, Building 

Book, Alcatraz.
239

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

EX3 Prison, south facade, ca. 1914. San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park (SFMNHP), 

P80-158.2.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

240

EX4 Prison, south facade, ca. 1915. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection.
241

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

EX5 Cell House, southwest view, 1910s. Jack Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection. Shows “Hope Springs” motto.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

242

EX6 Cell House, 1920s. NACP, RG 77, Building Book, Alcatraz.
243

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

EX7 Prison, south facade, 1924 parade. San Francisco History Center, San Francisco Public Library 

(SFPL). 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

244

EX8 Prison, southwest view, Army-era. San Francisco History Center, SFPL. Shows second-fl oor 

awnings.
245

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

EX 9 Prison, south facade, 1929. NACP, RG 77, Building Book, Alcatraz.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

246

EX10 Press tour, south facade, Attorney General Homer Cummings with Warden James Johnston, 

August 1934. SFMNHP, P83-144.76.
247

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

EX11 South facade, with guard force, ca. 1935. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection. Note old windows.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

248

EX12 South facade, with guard force seated, ca. 1935. SFMNHP, P83-150.10.
249

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

EX13 South facade with staircase, May 1942—ca. Dec. 1944. Phyllis Weed Collection, GGNRA Park 

Archives Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

250

EX14 Entrance, south facade, ca. 1940. SFMNHP, P83-170.102.
251

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

EX15 South facade with group, ca. 1940. Note venetian blinds and light fi xtures. SFMNHP, P83-

170.298.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

252

EX16 Western exterior, Administration Wing, ca. 1941. SFMNHP, P83-170.76. Note light fi xtures 

and blinds.
253

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

EX17 Entrance, Administration Wing, ca. 1944. SFMNHP, P89-052.30, slide 101. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

254

EX18 South facade, memorial service for family of correctional offi cer killed in escape attempt, 

1946. SFMNHP, P83-150.6. 
255

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

EX19 Entrance, Administration Wing, Father Clark with unidentifi ed man, ca. 1950. Courtesy 

Archives, California Province, Society of Jesus.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

256

EX20 West side, Mess Hall Wing, ca. 1957. NARA, RG 129, Records of the Bureau of Prisons. Note 

mess hall gun cages.
257

MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND ILLUSTRATIONS

EX21 South facade, post-March 1963. SFMNHP, P88-050.21. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

258

Disciplinary Barracks Period

DB1 Interior of Cell House during construction, ca. 1911. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

GOGA 3078.
259

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

DB2 Interior of Cell House during construction, ca. 1911. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

GOGA 3078.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

260

DB3 Interior of Cell House during construction, ca. 1911. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

GOGA 3078. Note stairway, cell paint treatment, and toilets.
261

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

DB4 Army Block 6, also known as D-block, ca. 1911. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection. 

Before completion of Cell House. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

262

DB5 C-block, no date. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, GOGA 1473. Note tier numbering on 

wall.
263

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

DB6 Bridges at south end of tiers leading to second fl oor of Administration Wing, ca. 1930. San 

Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

264

DB7 A–B aisle, looking south, ca. 1930. San Francisco History Center, SFPL. Note door in wall to 

Commandant’s Offi ce.
265

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

DB8 A–B aisle, looking south, ca. 1930. San Francisco History Center, SFPL. Note door in south 

wall has been removed.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

266

DB9 “Broadway,” B–C aisle, looking south, no date. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection. Note 

change in cell paint treatment.
267

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

DB10 “Broadway,” B–C aisle, no date. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection. Note lighting fi xtures.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

268

DB11 Cell House interior, Oct. 20, 1933. San Francisco History Center, SFPL. Note wooden bridge 

and cell interiors.
269

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

DB12 Cell House interior, Oct. 13, 1933. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

270

Federal Penitentiary Period

P1 Broadway, looking north, Federal Penitentiary opening day, August 20, 1934. San Francisco 

History Center, SFPL.
271

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P2 Metal detector, 1936. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-144.66.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

272

P3 Broadway, January 13, 1939. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
273

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P4 Cell House interior, 1934 or 1939. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

274

P5 Press tour with Attorney General, Mayor of San Francisco, and Governor of California, 

August 1934. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-144.60. Note bunk folded up inside cell.
275

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P6 Northwest corner of Cell House, between D- and C-blocks, no date. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, 77-350. Door to right leads to Recreation Yard and door to left leads to D-block.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

276

P7 Warden Johnston at door to Recreation Yard, May 5, 1946. San Francisco History Center, 

SFPL.
277

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P8 May 5, 1946 press tour after riot, West Gun Gallery. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

144.62.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

278

P9 Blackboard outside Dining Hall, ca. 1950–51. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.156.
279

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P10 C-block, December 27, 1954. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

280

P11 C-block looking south, ca. 1955. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 77-324.
281

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P12 C-block, 1956. Jack Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

166.45.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

282

P13 C-block and two guards, 1956. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.44.
283

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P14 Cell House interior with Gun Gallery, post-1946. Jack Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA 

Park Archives Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

284

P15 Cut-off gates, center of cell blocks, no date. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-144.164.
285

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P16 “Times Square,” north end of Cell House, outside Dining Hall, ca. 1955. Weed McPherson 

Collection, GGNRA Park Archives Collection, GOGA 1510.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

286

P17 “Times Square,” north end of Cell House, outside Dining Hall, ca. 1955. Weed McPherson 

Collection, GGNRA Park Archives Collection, GOGA 1510.
287

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P18 “Times Square,” north end of Cell House, outside Dining Hall, ca. 1955. Weed McPherson 

Collection, GGNRA Park Archives Collection, GOGA 1510.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

288

P19 “Times Square,” north end of Cell House, outside Dining Hall, ca. 1955. GGNRA Interpretive 

Photo Collection, 77-407.
289

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P20 New portable metal detector, August 1961. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

290

P21 Broadway, looking north to Dining Room, ca. 1960–61. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

P83-170.152.
291

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P22 Sick call, Times Square, ca. 19672. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.1.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

292

P23 Gun Gallery, ca. 1962, guard pulling up key. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.86.
293

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P24 Radio distribution panel in Gun Gallery, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-

055.71.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

294

P25 Gun Gallery, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P9-055.72.
295

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P26 Convict at visiting panel, south end of Cell House, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-055.75.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

296

P27 Guards at desk, south end of Cell House, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-

057.21.
297

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P28 Guard at desk, south end of Cell House, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-

057.74. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

298

P29 “C–D Street” the aisle between C- and D-blocks, looking north, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park 

Archives Collection, P89-055.104.
299

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P30 Convicts cleaning fl oors, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.18.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

300

P31 Metal detector, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.84.
301

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P32 Locking mechanism, cell house, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.70.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

302

P33 Guard operating door mechanism, west end of outside B-block, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park 

Archives Collection, P92-007.4.
303

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P34 Guard unlocking cell doors, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P92-007.9.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

304

P35 Convicts walking towards Dining Room through “Times Square,” looking west, ca. 1962. 

GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P92-007.3. 
305

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

P36 Guard in “Times Square,” looking east, March 12, 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo 

Collection, 87-19.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

306

P37 Visiting area, May 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection.
307

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

Recreation Yard

R1 Recreation Yard fi ght, 1910s. Mary Elliott Collection, GGNRA Park Archives Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

308

R2 Recreation Yard, looking east, ca. 1915. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection.
309

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R3 Recreation Yard, looking west, ca. 1915. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

310

R4 Recreation Yard during disciplinary barracks period, looking north. San Francisco History 

Center, SFPL. 
311

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R5 Recreation Yard during army turn over to Bureau of Prisons, ca. August 1934. San Francisco 

History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

312

R6 Recreation Yard during army turn over to Bureau of Prisons, looking south, ca. August 1934. 

San Francisco History Center, SFPL. 
313

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R7 Recreation Yard, looking north, April 19, 1941. San Francisco History Center, SFPL. Note 

steps and lack of cyclone fencing on walls.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

314

R8 Convicts playing games in Recreation Yard, 1950s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.280. Note tables and cushions.
315

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R9 Convicts in Recreation Yard, 1950s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.282. Note 

tables, cushions, baseball equipment, and fence separating baseball diamond.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

316

R10 Metal detectors, west side of Main Prison Building, 1950s. GGNRA Interpretive Photo 

Collection, 82-27. 
317

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R11 Convicts playing hand ball, December 27, 1954. San Francisco History Center, SFPL. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

318

R12 Convict baseball game in Recreation Yard, looking west, 1955. GGNRA Interpretive Photo 

Collection, 77-398. 
319

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R13 Convicts in Recreation Yard, looking north, ca. 1956. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 

77-307. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

320

R14 Convicts playing baseball, ca. 1956. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 75-48. Note fence 

separating baseball diamond from rest of yard.
321

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R15 Convicts in Recreation Yard, January 7, 1957. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

322

R16 Convicts in Recreation Yard, no date. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 82-18.
323

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R17 Convicts in Recreation Yard, facing north, ca. 1960. GGNRA Interpretive Slide Collection. 

Note fence, basketball uprights and net. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

324

R18 “A general northern view taken from the top of the prison building. The area immediately to 

the left and center is the recreation area and at the far end may be seen guard tower number 

4 and guard tower number 3 and guard tower number 2. None of these guard towers are 

manned during the night. Photo by SA F. G. Lyman, 6/12/62.” GGNRA Interpretive Photo 

Collection, GOGA 2316. 
325

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R19 “Same general view as [R18] except that a larger portion of the recreation area is visible. Photo 

by SA F. G. Lyman, 6/12/62.” GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, GOGA 2316. Note 

weightlifting benches, weights, barbells, and supports.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

326

R20 Recreation Yard looking south, ca. 1965. San Francisco History Center, SFPL. Note volleyball 

net.
327

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

R21 Recreation Yard, ca. 1965. San Francisco History Center, SFPL. Note folding stools.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

328

Warden’s Offi ce

W1 Warden Johnston press conference after May 1946 riot. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

P89-039.10.
329

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

W2 Warden Swope at desk, ca. 1950. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 87-1.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

330

W3 Warden Swope leading meeting in his offi ce, ca. 1947–55. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection. 

Note annunciator over fi replace.
331

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

W4 Warden Madigan with unidentifi ed man in his offi ce, ca. 1954–55. Weed-McPherson 

Collection, GGNRA Park Archives Collection, GOGA 1510.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

332

W5 Warden Madigan in offi ce, ca. 1954–55. Weed-McPherson Collection, GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, GOGA 1510.
333

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

W6 Warden Madigan and others at classifi cation hearing, 1958. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

P83-166.28.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

334

W7 Escape gear, 1962. NARA, RG 129. Note table, sofa, and carpet.
335

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

W8 Model of Alcatraz in Warden’s offi ce, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.91. 

Note chairs, sofa, carpet and side table.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

336

W9 Training session, Warden’s offi ce, no date. NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, 

Box 16. Note clock and paintings.
337

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

W10 Training session, Warden’s Offi ce, ca. 1955–61. NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 16.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

338

W11 Training session, Warden’s Offi ce, ca. 1955–61. NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-

03, Box 16. Note chair upholstery and fi ling cabinet.
339

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

W12 Convict made shawl, Warden’s Offi ce, ca. 1955–61. NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-

96-03, Box 16. Note clock and painting.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

340

W13 Warden’s Offi ce, before May 3, 1963, when telephones were removed. GGNRA Interpretive 

Photo Collection, 77-320. Note portraits, window treatments, sofa, chair, lighting fi xtures and 

fl ag pole.
341

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

W14 Model of Alcatraz displayed in Warden’s Offi ce, 1963. GGNRA Park Archives Collection 

GOGA, 18077. Note ashtray stand, bookcase, sofa, and radiator cover.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

342

W15 Model of Alcatraz displayed in Warden’s Offi ce, after closing, spring 1963. GGNRA 

Interpretive Photo Collection.
343

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

Administrative Offi ces

AO1 Offi cer with Blood Donor Record, Disciplinary Barracks period. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P83-150.13.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

344

AO2 Warden Swope with son, near Administration Wing entrance hall, ca. 1948–53?. GGNRA Park 

Archives Collection, P83-170.306. 
345

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

AO3 Paul Madigan in offi ce, Administration Wing, southeast offi ce, no date. GGNRA Park 

Archives Collection, P83-170.307.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

346

AO4 Captain Stucker in Administration Wing, southeast offi ce, no date. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P83-170.311. 
347

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

AO5 Unidentifi ed correctional offi cer in Administration Wing, southeast offi ce, no date. GGNRA 

Park Archives Collection, P83-170.308.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

348

AO6 1946 Fluorescent Lighting Plan, attachment to J. H. McFadden, Supt. of 

Construction to J. A. Johnston, Warden, February 28, 1946, NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz S, E & M Files, Box 6.
349

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

AO7 Escape equipment display, no date. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 77-403.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

350

AO8 Lt. Emile Rychner in Administration Wing, southeast offi ce, no date. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P83-170.304.
351

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

AO9 Unidentifi ed offi ce worker in Administration Wing, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-055.79. Note new offi ce partitions.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

352

AO10 Unidentifi ed offi ce worker in Administration Wing, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P88-050.7.
353

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

AO11 Fluorescent lighting fi xtures, Administration Wing, ca. 1959. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

354

AO12 Fluorescent lighting fi xtures, Administration Wing, ca. 1959. NARA, RG 129. Note venetian 

blinds.
355

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

AO13 Model of Alcatraz Island, in Administration Wing, May 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo 

Collection. Note fl ooring and color of partitions.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

356

AO14 Model of Alcatraz Island, in Administration Wing, May 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo 

Collection. Note new partitions through open doorway.
357

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

Sally Port

SP1 Sally Port with unidentifi ed correctional offi cers, no date. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

358

SP2 Sally Port, pre-1944. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.158. Note overhead lighting 

fi xture, radiator, and clock.
359

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

SP3 Sally Port door leading to Cell House, no date. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.157.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

360

SP4 Administration Wing entrance and metal detector, before 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P83-170.164.
361

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

SP5 Sally Port, pre-1962. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 77-181.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

362

SP6 Sally Port, ca. 1956. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.059. Left to right: Bill Russell, 

University of San Francisco basketball player; Offi cer George DeVincenzi; K. C. Jones, 

University of San Francisco basketball player; Captain Emil Rychner, and Father Richard 

Scannell. Russell and Jones were players on the nationally ranked University of San Francisco 

team in the mid-1950s.
363

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

SP7 Two offi cers at Sally Port door, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.73. Note 

clock and desk.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

364

Old Armory

OA1 Old Control Center, post-1946 and pre-1957. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P85-116.10.
365

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

OA2 Old Control Center, March 1956. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.7.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

366

OA3 Annotated armory console, ca. 1956. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection.
367

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

OA4 Key board, old Control Center, March 1956. San Francisco History Center, SFPL. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

368

OA5 Offi cer in old Control Center, pre-August, 1961. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection.
369

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

Control Center

CC1 New Control Center with correctional offi cer, September 1961 or 1962. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

370

CC2 New Control Center, looking east, August 1961. NARA, RG 129.
371

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

CC3 Control Center key locker, August 1961. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

372

CC4 New Control Center with correctional offi cer, looking northeast, 1962. GGNRA Park 

Archives Collection, P88-050.49.
373

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

CC5 New Control Center, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.9.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

374

CC6 New Control Center, pass window, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.50.
375

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

CC7 New Control Center, post-1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 77-330.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

376

New Armory

NA1 New Armory, pistols, August 1961. NARA, RG 129.
377

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

NA2 New Armory, rifl es, August 1961. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

378

Visitors’ Room

V1 Visitors’ Room looking east, ca. 1940. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.193.
379

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

V2 Visitors’ Room, 1946. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.324. The convict on the left 

is probably meeting with his lawyer.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

380

V3 Visitors’ Room looking west, ca. 1954. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.162.
381

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

V4 Visitors’ Room looking east. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-144.114. Note Sally Port 

guard’s desk visible through the gate. The “visitors” on the phones are probably Alcatraz administrative staff demonstrating the communication system.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

382

V5 Visitors’ Room, looking west, post-1958 renovation. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-

055.74. Note new woodwork, acoustical tiles, and curtain at gate. The stairway shown in V3 

has been walled in.
383

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING ILLUSTRATIONS

V6 Inmate at communication window to Visitors’ Room, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-055.75. Note that early vision panels have been boarded up.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

384

V7 Visitors’ Room, facing east, 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 77-341. The south 

side of the room is being used by administrative staff . The framed opening on the south wall 

leads to the new Control Center, and the hinged door in the paneling provides access to 

switch boxes and junction boxes.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

385

ILLUSTRATIONS

V8 Visiting area, looking northwest, post-1963 closing. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection. 

The rectangular opening in the foreground is one of the new vision panels, installed in 1958; 

the wedge-shaped piece below the window supported the telephone to the Cell House. The 

square panel with a handle covers one of the gun ports installed after the 1946 riot. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

386

Cells

C1 Illustration from General Orders, No. 14, May 21, 1915, Pacifi c Branch, United States 

Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California. Courtesy Michael Esslinger.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

387

ILLUSTRATIONS

C2 Disciplinary barracks-era cell, ca. 1920s. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

388

C3 “Original cell bed, 1959.” NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

389

ILLUSTRATIONS

C4 Disciplinary barracks-era cell, October 20, 1933. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

390

C5 Army guard in disciplinary barracks-era cell, ca. 1933. American Detective Magazine, ca. 

1936–38. GGNRA Park Archives Collection. Note cell number and prisoner registry number 

painted over the cell door.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

391

ILLUSTRATIONS

C6 Cell interior, fi rst tier of B-block, east side, ca. 1940. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.174.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

392

C7 Warden Johnston inspecting 1946 riot “hostage” cell, May 1946. GGNRA Interpretive Photo 

Collection, 80-198.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

393

ILLUSTRATIONS

C8 Inmates James Pivaroff (with guitar) and Edgar Cook, ca. 1950–55. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-055.5.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

394

C9 Cell interior, March 16, 1956. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

395

ILLUSTRATIONS

C10 Cell interior, March 17, 1956. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

396

C11 Cell interior, ca. 1956. Jack Fleming Alcatraz Collection, GGNRA Park Archives Collection.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

397

ILLUSTRATIONS

C12 Cell plan, 1956. Institution Rules and Regulations, United States Penitentiary, Alcatraz, 

California, revised 1956 (reprint).
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

398

C13 Unidentifi ed inmates in cells, ca. 1950s. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 82-19.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

399

ILLUSTRATIONS

C14 Cell interior, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.10.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

400

C15 Inmate painting in cell, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.88.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

401

ILLUSTRATIONS

C16 Cell interior, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-050.30.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

402

C17 Correctional offi cer in 1962 escape cell. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.20.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

403

ILLUSTRATIONS

C18 1962 escape cell. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-168.2.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

404

C19 1962 escape cell. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.22.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

405

ILLUSTRATIONS

C20 1962 escape cell. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.21.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

406

C21 Furnished cell interior on “Broadway,” south end of C-block, ca. 1963–64. GGNRA 

Interpretive Photo Collection, 77-335. This cell was furnished by caretaker John Hart to show 

visitors after the prison closed.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

407

ILLUSTRATIONS

C22 Furnished cell, May 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

408

C23 Cell interior, post-closing, ca. 1965. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

409

ILLUSTRATIONS

C24 Indian occupier in cell, ca. 1970. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 79-C-81.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

410

A-Block Cells

AB1 Henry Young trial evidence photograph, May 1, 1941. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

411

ILLUSTRATIONS

AB2 Henry Young trial evidence photograph, May 1, 1941. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

412

AB3 Interior A-block cell, Henry Young trial evidence photograph, May 1, 1941. San Francisco 

History Center, SFPL.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

413

ILLUSTRATIONS

AB4 Gate between A-block and Barber Shop, north end of A-block, no date. GGNRA Interpretive 

Photo Collection, 77-312.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

414

AB5 A-block, looking south, 1950. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 77-C-333. Note stools 

and chairs in corridor.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

415

ILLUSTRATIONS

AB6 Desk in A-block corridor, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.76.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

416

AB7 A-block and Army-era spiral stairs, looking north, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-057.68.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

417

ILLUSTRATIONS

AB8 A-block, looking south, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.77.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

418

AB9 A-block cell, with administrative staff offi ce, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-

050.14.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

419

ILLUSTRATIONS

D-Block Cells

D1 Army-era Block 6, later known as D-block, looking south, August 27, 1930. San Francisco 

History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

420

D2 Army-era Block 6, later known as D-block, looking north, ca. 1930. From Alcatraz Fights, May 

5, 1930. Courtesy Michael Esslinger.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

421

ILLUSTRATIONS

D3 Blueprint of D-block made after 1939 escape. NARA, RG 65, Records of the Federal Bureau 

of Investigation.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

422

D4 “Corridor of cell block in front of cells from which escape made. Photograph taken from direction of Warden’s Offi ce [north],” 1939. NARA, RG 65.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

423

ILLUSTRATIONS

D5 “Corridor of cell block in front of cells from which escape made. Looking towards offi ce 

[north],” 1939. NARA, RG 65.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

424

D6 “Cell of Rufus Roy McCain,” 1939. NARA, RG 65.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

425

ILLUSTRATIONS

D7 “Cell of Dale Stamphill,” 1939. NARA, RG 65.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

426

D8 Construction of D-block isolation cells, looking south, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P83-170.190.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

427

ILLUSTRATIONS

D9 Construction of D-block isolation cells, looking north, 1941. Courtesy Chuck Stucker 

Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

428

D10 Construction of D-block isolation cells, looking north, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P83-170.191.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

429

ILLUSTRATIONS

D11 Newly constructed D-block isolation cells, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.167. Note bunks inside solid front cells.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

430

D12 D-block solid-front cells, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.166.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

431

ILLUSTRATIONS

D13 D-block solid-front cell, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, Detail from P83-170.167. 

Mesh over interior bars was eventually removed so that guards could see inmates inside cells.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

432

D14 Control panel for D-block locking mechanism, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

144.59.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

433

ILLUSTRATIONS

D15 Control panel for D-block locking mechanism, third tier, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P83-170.153.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

434

D16 Cell locking device, from “Control System of Locks for Prison Cell Doors,” April 1941. NARA, 

RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 15.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

435

ILLUSTRATIONS

D17 Shower cell, D-block, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.165.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

436

D18 D-block cells, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.170. Note that bunks have not 

yet been installed.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

437

ILLUSTRATIONS

D19 D-block cells with bunks, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.171.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

438

D20 D-block cell interior without bunk, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.168.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

439

ILLUSTRATIONS

D21 D-block cell interior with bunk and bedding, 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.169.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

440

D22 Stairway, north end of D-block, no date. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.150. 

Grating has not yet been installed over Gun Gallery, so photograph predates May 1946 riot.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

441

ILLUSTRATIONS

D23 D-block cell interior with cast aluminum sink and toilet, post-1955. Jack Fleming Alcatraz 

Collection, GGNRA Park Archives Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

442

D24 D-block, looking south, May 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

443

ILLUSTRATIONS

Barber Shop

Bar1 Army Barber Shop located in basement, facing north, 1930. From publication “Alcatraz 

Fights,” May 5, 1930. Courtesy Michael Esslinger Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

444

Bar2 Barber Shop located in north end of A-block, ca. 1955. GGNRA Interpretive Photo 

Collection, 77-316.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

445

ILLUSTRATIONS

Bar3 Barber Shop, A-block, December 27, 1954. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

446

Bar4 Barber Shop, A-block, March 24, 1956. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

447

ILLUSTRATIONS

Bar5 Barber Shop, A-block, northeast corner, January 24, 1962. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

448

Bar6 Barber Shop, A-block, from above, facing northeast corner, January 24, 1962. NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

449

ILLUSTRATIONS

Library

L1 Chaplain Byron Eshelman at his desk in the southwest corner of the Library, ca. 1949. 

GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.303.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

450

L2 Library, ca. 1954. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.49. Note the wood offi ce desk in 

the stacks.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

451

ILLUSTRATIONS

L3 Convict library assistants in library stacks, no date. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 

77-393. Note Army-era Ansonia clock and wood library tables.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

452

L4 Library, June 1961. One of two photographs enclosed in correspondence to illustrate how 

“very unattractive” the library was at this time. See P. Madigan to J. Sugarman, June 21, 1961, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1. 
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

453

ILLUSTRATIONS

L5 Library, June 1961. One of two photographs enclosed in correspondence to illustrate how 

“very unattractive” the library was at this time. See P. Madigan to J. Sugarman, June 21, 1961, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 1.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

454

L6 Library, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.83.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

455

ILLUSTRATIONS

L7 Library after closing, May 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

456

Kitchen

K1 Kettles in center of Kitchen, October 20, 1933. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

457

ILLUSTRATIONS

K2 Inmate Pivaroff in Kitchen, facing west, 1951–53. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.222. Note that the oven was installed in late 1950 or early 1951, and the work table was 

relocated in 1953.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

458

K3 Inmate Pivaroff in Kitchen, facing north, 1951–53. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.225.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

459

ILLUSTRATIONS

K4 Inmate Pivaroff in Kitchen, facing northeast, 1951–53. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.224.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

460

K5 Inmate Pivaroff in Kitchen, facing northeast, 1951–53. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.223. Note the door to the Bakery east of the oven.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

461

ILLUSTRATIONS

K6 Culinary Department staff member with Oliver-brand bread slicer, pre-1953. GGNRA Park 

Archives Collection, P83-170.219. The metal shelves attached to the gate on the Dining Room 

side serve as a back bar for the steam tables.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

462

K7 “Recommendation for Rearrangement of Equipment,” ca. 1951. See Warden Swope to Robert 

Barnes, BoP, November 6, 1951, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 21.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

463

ILLUSTRATIONS

K8 Steward’s offi ce, facing north, ca. 1953. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

464

K9 Steward’s offi ce, facing northwest, 1950s. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 77-411.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

465

ILLUSTRATIONS

K10 West side of Kitchen, ca. 1953. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

466

K11 South side of Kitchen, post-1953. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P85-116.8.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

467

ILLUSTRATIONS

K12 New ice maker, 1961. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

468

K13 West side of Kitchen, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.22.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

469

ILLUSTRATIONS

K14 Bakery, in northeast corner of Kitchen, 1950s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.218.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

470

K15 Bakery, 1950s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.294.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

471

ILLUSTRATIONS

K16 Bakery, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.65.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

472

K17 Kitchen, facing northwest, 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

473

ILLUSTRATIONS

K18 Plan of Kitchen, undated, post-1953. NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, Box 1.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

474

K19 Basement Butcher Shop, 1950s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P85-116.11.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

475

ILLUSTRATIONS

Dining Room (Mess Hall)

M1 Army Mess Hall, ca. 1915. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection. Note Quartermaster-issue 

stools, plates, cups and spoons. Two swinging doors in the north wall provide access to the 

Kitchen.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

476

M2 Mess Hall, ca. 1933. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

477

ILLUSTRATIONS

M3 Dining Room, facing north, pre-1948. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.229. Note 

polished concrete fl oor. Linoleum was installed in 1948.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

478

M4 Mess Hall gas release switches, probably 1934–35. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

144.57.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

479

ILLUSTRATIONS

M5 September 25, 1948 menu. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P84-108.2.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

480

M6 Table settings, Dining Room, Christmas 1948. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.227. 

See also Warden Swope to Director, BoP, February 4, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 7. 
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

481

ILLUSTRATIONS

M7 Culinary Department inmate staff , Dining Room, December 25, 1948. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P83-170.293. Left to right: Pivaroff , Karabelas, Flemming, Sanford, Barkdoll, Pyles, 

Karpis, Lovett, Stallings and Burton. See Warden Swope to Director, BoP, February 4, 1949, 

NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. Files, 129-96-03, Box 7.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

482

M8 Pivaroff at steam table, December 25, 1948. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.226. 

See also Warden Swope to Director, BoP, February 4, 1949, NARA, RG 129, Alcatraz Admin. 

Files, 129-96-03, Box 7. 
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

483

ILLUSTRATIONS

M9 Dining Room steam tables, facing north, September, 1941–53. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P83-170.228. Note that the shelving behind the steam tables was installed around 

1941–42 and the steam kettles visible in the background were moved in 1953.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

484

M10 Dining Room with steam tables and cart, August 12, 1954. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

GOGA1510.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

485

ILLUSTRATIONS

M11 Meal line, Dining Room, December, 1954. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.51. 

Note the cart or truck holding aluminum trays acquired in 1952.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

486

M12 Entrance to Dining Room, 1954. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.50.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

487

ILLUSTRATIONS

M13 Utility sink, tray storage, and service windows, north wall, Dining Room, 

ca. 1954. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P85-116.6.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

488

M14 Band set up in Dining Room north of Kitchen entrance, ca. 1950–51. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-052.221.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

489

ILLUSTRATIONS

M15 Offi cer [?] Kirkpatrick in Dining Room, 1956. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.52.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

490

M16 Correctional offi cer in Dining Room, 1956. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-166.53. 

Note painted wainscot.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

491

ILLUSTRATIONS

M17 Dining Room, facing northwest, March 13, 1956. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

492

M18 Menu Board, March 13, 1956. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

493

ILLUSTRATIONS

M19 Window, south side, Dining Room, ca. 1960. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-042.3. 

Note the aluminum trays and cups on the table. Glass bricks were installed in the west windows before May 1960.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

494

M20 Inmates entering Dining Room, facing south, ca. 1960. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

P92-007.10. Note the trays on the tray rack and the coff ee urn at far left.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

495

ILLUSTRATIONS

M21 Dining Room, facing northwest, ca. 1960. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P92-007.11.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

496

M22 Correctional Offi cer checking tables, Dining Room, ca. 1960. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P92-007.14.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

497

ILLUSTRATIONS

M23 Inmates at coff ee urns, ca. 1960. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P92-007.13.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

498

M24 Steam tables and tray rack in Dining Room, facing south, no date. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P92-007.12.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

499

ILLUSTRATIONS

M25 Inmates and Correctional Offi cer at mess table, Dining Room, no date. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P92-007.1.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

500

M26 Dining Room with ten-man mess tables, facing north, 1961. NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

501

ILLUSTRATIONS

M27 Dining Room with ten-man mess tables, facing southwest, 1961. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

502

M28 Dining Room with new four-man mess tables, facing north, October 1961. NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

503

ILLUSTRATIONS

M29 Dining Room with new four-man mess tables, facing north, October 1961. Note framed picture on west wall. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

504

M30 Inmate band, Christmas 1961 or 1962, facing northwest. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

P85-116.12.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

505

ILLUSTRATIONS

M31 Inmates at steam table, facing east, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.96.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

506

M32 Inmates and Correctional Offi cers approaching steam tables, facing north, 1962. GGNRA 

Park Archives Collection, P89-057.2.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

507

ILLUSTRATIONS

M33 Inmates and Correctional Offi cers at meal time, facing north, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P88-050.55.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

508

M34 Inmates at four-man tables, facing north, 1962. The tablecloths and inmate band indicate that 

this image was probably taken on a holiday. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.38.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

509

ILLUSTRATIONS

Chapel and Auditorium

CA1 Father Joseph Clark and unidentifi ed man in front of Alcatraz altar, ca. 1946. GGNRA Park 

Archives Collection, P83-170.66. On back of original Clark wrote: “I gave the inmates a 

bronze plaque of the Last Supper and they built this altar, candlesticks and all, out of mahogany.” Identifying information courtesy Anne Sevigna.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

510

CA2 Altar in Chapel/Auditorium, ca. 1946–49. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.267.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

511

ILLUSTRATIONS

CA3 Byron Eshelman, chaplain, in front of altar, ca. 1946–49. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

P83-170.266. Eshelman served on Alcatraz from November 1946 through November 1949.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

512

CA4 Chapel with movie screen behind altar, ca. 1946–49. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 

82-68.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

513

ILLUSTRATIONS

CA5 Correctional offi cers’ training session, ca. 1949. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 80-

193.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

514

CA6 Correctional offi cers’ training session, 1946. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-039.17.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

515

ILLUSTRATIONS

CA7 Altar, no date. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.268.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

516

CA8 Altar, no date. Courtesy Chuck Stucker Collection.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

517

ILLUSTRATIONS

CA9 Altar set up for Catholic service, 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection 77-327.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

518

CA10 Trapdoor over stairway to chapel, no date. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.160.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

519

ILLUSTRATIONS

CA11 Inmate projectionist, ca. 1941. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.241.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

520

Offi cers’ Dining Room

ODR1 Progress Review Board, meeting in Classifi cation Meeting Room, southern part of second 

fl oor Administration Wing, ca. 1947–55. Photograph and identifying information courtesy Anne Sevigna. Left to right: Protestant Chaplain Byron Eshelman; Associate Warden 

Paul Madigan; Captain of Guards; Warden Edwin Swope; clerk; Superintendent of Prison 

Industries; Catholic Chaplain Joseph Clark.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

521

ILLUSTRATIONS

ODR2 “Meeting of Alcatraz Classifi cation Committee in meeting room above warden’s offi ce/Left 

to Right:/?/Cornelius Manning, Supt. Ind./Rev. Joe Clark, Catholic Chaplain/?/Paul Madigan, 

Warden/Nova Stucker, Assoc. Warden,” no date. Photograph and identifying information 

courtesy Jolene Babyak.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

522

ODR3 Correctional offi cers and inmate server, ca. 1960. NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

523

ILLUSTRATIONS

ODR4 Warden Madigan and guests, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

524

ODR5 James “Blackie” Audett and Warden Madgan, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960. 

NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

525

ILLUSTRATIONS

ODR6 James “Blackie” Audett and Warden Madigan, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960. 

NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

526

ODR7 Inmate servers, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960. NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

527

ILLUSTRATIONS

ODR8 “Blackie” Audett serving, ca. 1960–61. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

528

ODR9 Guests, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960. NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

529

ILLUSTRATIONS

ODR10 Guests, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

530

ODR11 Warden Madigan and guests, Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960. NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

531

ILLUSTRATIONS

ODR12 Guests and staff , Offi cers’ Dining Room reception, July 1960. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

532

ODR13 Staff and convict waiter, ca. 1960–61. NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

533

ILLUSTRATIONS

ODR14 Offi cers’ dining room, ca. 1961. NARA, RG 129.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

534

ODR15 Staff and convict waiter, ca. 1960–61. NARA, RG 129.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

535

ILLUSTRATIONS

ODR16 Offi cers’ Dining Room, ca. 1961. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-050.50.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

536

ODR17 Offi cers’ Dining Room, facing east, ca. 1960–61. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-

057.55. 
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

537

ILLUSTRATIONS

Hospital

H1 Floor plan of hospital wing, ca. 1912–21. NACP, RG 77, Building Book, Alcatraz.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

538

H2 Dispensary partition, 1918. NACP, RG 77, Building Book, Alcatraz.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

539

ILLUSTRATIONS

H3 “New Stainless Metal Sink, Post Hospital Kitchen, Building No. 68 (a)” and “Tiling on walls–

Post Hospital Kitchen and Scullery, Building No. 68 (a),” 1933. NACP, RG 77, Building Book, 

Alcatraz.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

540

H4 Main hospital ward, facing north, pre-1952. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.196. 

Note door to bathroom in far right. Note World War I-era beds and Army-era medicine cabinets.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

541

ILLUSTRATIONS

H5 Entrance area and waiting room, 1937. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-020.10.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

542

H6 Outpatient room, ca. 1938. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-020.5. The square black 

machine in the center is an electrocautery machine, also known as an electric “Bovie” after its 

inventor. The center cabinet holds bandages, and the cabinet on the right holds chemicals and 

pharmaceuticals. In the center of the room is a gurney or operating table.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

543

ILLUSTRATIONS

iH7 Outpatient room, ca. 1938. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-020.6. Note the autoclave 

in the northeast corner and the IV pole next to the sink. The photographer took this image 

from the opposite side of the gurney shown in fi gure H6.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

544

H8 Autoclave or surgical sterilizer, view of southeast corner, ca. 1940. Courtesy Chuck Stucker 

Collection. This equipment is similar to that shown in fi gure H7.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

545

ILLUSTRATIONS

H9 Operating room, ca. 1938. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-020.4. At far left is a light 

pole and a stool for the anesthesiologist. The bar arching over the operating table is an ether 

screen. A cloth drape was put over the screen to divide anesthesia from surgery and to protect 

the sterile area. The table in the corner was called the “back table” and held most of the surgical instruments. The “Mayo stand” at far right held instruments used immediately in surgery. 

The buckets in the foreground are known as “kick buckets” and were used to keep track of 

used sponges during surgery.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

546

H10 Operating room, view of northeast corner, ca. 1938. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-

020.7. Note the operating room light above and the cabinet at right used to store supplies and 

instruments. A machine or instrument in the back of the room is covered to keep it clean. 

Furnishings are smooth enameled metal and have no corners so they can be cleaned and disinfected easily.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

547

ILLUSTRATIONS

H11 Ward room, ca. 1938. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-020.9.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

548

H12 Ward room, ca. 1938. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-020.8.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

549

ILLUSTRATIONS

H13 Fluorescent lighting plan, second fl oor, north end, hospital, February 1946. NARA, RG 129, 

Alcatraz S, E, & M Files, Box 6. See J. McFadden, Superintendent of Construction, BoP to J. 

Johnston, February 28, 1946. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

550

H14 X-ray room, 1940s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-170.147. The square black cassette 

holder holds the fi lm. It is mounted on a tripod and wheels so that it is moveable. The X-ray 

machine is the black camera-like object attached to the overall X-ray unit. The hand control 

is attached to the pole, at far right. The X-ray operator placed the plate on the table, and the 

patient laid on top of the plate.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

551

ILLUSTRATIONS

H15 Hydrotherapy room with heat lamp, ca. 1940s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.197. Note white enamel bathtub in southeast corner and whirlpool tub against east wall.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

552

H16 Wire mesh “cages” used as cells for mentally ill patients, pre-1956. Jack Fleming Alcatraz 

Collection, GGNRA Park Archives Collection.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

553

ILLUSTRATIONS

H17 Three-man ward cell, December 27, 1954. San Francisco History Center, SFPL.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

554

H18 Hospital entry, looking east through gated entry, no date. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, 

P83-170.149.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

555

ILLUSTRATIONS

H19 Glass brick windows on west side of hospital wing, post 1958. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-042.5.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

556

H20 Three-man hospital ward cells, post-1952. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection, 77-315.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

557

ILLUSTRATIONS

H21 Dental offi ce, no date. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, GOGA 1567.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

558

H22 Three-man ward cells, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.59.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

559

ILLUSTRATIONS

H23 Three-man ward cells, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.80.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

560

H24 Dental unit, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-050.8.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

561

ILLUSTRATIONS

H25 Outpatient room, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-050.48. Note that the gurney 

has no brakes, so it is stabilized by blocks. The gurney, or table, is shown in the ca. 1938 photograph, as is the supply cabinet, the stool, and the Army-era wooden chair.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

562

H26 Outpatient room, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.5.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

563

ILLUSTRATIONS

H27 X-ray room, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.71. Note new X-ray unit. The 

MTA is placing the X-ray cassette (the fi lm within the fi lm holder) under the patient. The arm 

above the patient is the X-ray machine itself, which is mounted on either the wall or the table. 

A draped X-ray plate appears on the right side of the patient. Circuit breakers on the wall at 

right are located so that electrical power to the room could be shut off immediately in case of 

fi re or other problem in the room.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

564

H28 Robert Stroud’s isolation cell, 1963. GGNRA Interpretive Photo Collection.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

565

ILLUSTRATIONS

Lower Sally Port

LSP1 Convicts departing Alcatraz, Lower Sally Port, facing west, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-057.13. Note Correctional Offi cer applying prisoner’s leg irons.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

566

LSP2 Convicts departing Alcatraz, Lower Sally Port, from stairs above, 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-055.87.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

567

ILLUSTRATIONS

LSP3 Correctional Offi cers putting away handcuff s and leg irons, Lower Sally Port, facing west, 

1962. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-057.14. Note canvas bag for storing restraints 

and fl ash lights.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

568

Clothing Issue Room

CR1 Clothing Issue Room, west side of Shower Room, 1950s. GGNRA Interpretive Photo 

Collection, 77-394.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

569

ILLUSTRATIONS

CR2 Clothing Issue Room, ca. 1961–62. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P88-050.10. Note 

shelving containing inmates’ clothing.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

570

Shower Room

S1 Shower Room, facing east, pre-1956. Photograph off ered on eBay, 1999. The marble shower 

dividers were painted black sometime before 1953.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

571

ILLUSTRATIONS

S2 Shower Room, facing west, ca. 1961–62. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-055.81. The 

Clothing Issue Room is visible in front of the windows.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

572

S3 Shower Room, southeast corner, post-1963 closing. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P89-

055.99.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

573

ILLUSTRATIONS

S4 Shower Room, during 1969–71 American Indian occupation. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection. Note junction boxes used as soap holders.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

574

S5 Original light fi xture, Shower Room, 2002. Courtesy of John Martini.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

575

ILLUSTRATIONS

Band Practice Room

BR1 Band practice room, facing northwest, early 1950s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.287.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

576

BR2 Band practice room, facing south, early 1950s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.289.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

577

ILLUSTRATIONS

BR3 Band practice room, facing south, early 1950s. GGNRA Park Archives Collection, P83-

170.288. Note instrument cases on fl oor at left. 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

578

Dungeon

Dun1 Floor plan of 1929 Cell House basement with cells highlighted. NACP, RG 77, Building Book, 

Alcatraz.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND ILLUSTRATIONS

Dun2 “Dungeon” cells in Cell House basement, published in San Francisco News, May 17, 1933. San 

Francisco History Center, SFPL.

579
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

580

Dun3 Guard with remains of dungeon cells, Cell House basement, ca. 1962. GGNRA Park Archives 

Collection, P89-057.4.
MAIN PRISON BUILDING, ALCATRAZ ISLAND

Appendixes

APPENDIXES

581
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

582 Appendixes 582
583

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING APPENDIXES

Appendix A 

Warden Johnston’s Original List of Guard Stations

From Erwin Thompson, The Rock: A History of Alcatraz Island, 1847–1972, pp. 371–74.

“Johnston’s original list of guard stations gives an excellent description of the organization 

of the penitentiary. He organized the guards into three shifts, assigning each an identifying 

color in a manner similar to the watches of some navies: day period, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ten 

hours, yellow; night period, 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m., seven hours, red; and morning period, 

12:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. seven hours, green. Some stations were manned all three shifts, each 

guard on each shift having an individual number, while other stations were manned only one 

or two shifts:

Guards 1–3. Guardhouse on Dock; dock was fenced off to allow for a receiving station at which 

all persons going or coming were identifi ed; this was a 24-hour station.

Guard 4. Transfer Guard; day period only. The guard met all boats and conducted visitors to 

and from the dock. It was his duty to see that visitors went only to the places authorized.

Guards 5–7. Entrance to Administrative Building; a 24-hour position. The guard controlled the 

entrance to the cellblock, the visitors’ corridor, and the stairway to the auditorium (chapel) 

and library.

Guards 8–9. East Gun Gallery; was manned during the night and morning shifts, when the 

men were locked in their cells, when they were released for meals, when they left their cells in 

the morning, and when they returned in the evening.

Guards 10–11. Cell House Guards; their duties were to count the men in their cells, lock and 

unlock the doors, maintain discipline in the cells, supervise the movement of prisoners to and 

from the cell house, handle bathing details and barber arrangements, superintend all work 

assignments in the cell house, and they were responsible for keeping the place clean and orderly. (Johnston did not specify which two shifts were involved.)

Guards 13–15. Kitchen and Mess Hall Guards; these guards were responsible for policing the 

mess hall, kitchen, and basement, including the bakery, the ice plant, the print shop, the inside 

work shops, and the vegetable preparation room. 

Guards 16–18. Patrol Guard on west Station; the guard was in a tower. It was his duty to observe prisoners in work areas, stop them from wandering, and prevent any watercraft from 

coming within the 300-yard dead line. He was armed. When the prisoners were locked in 

their cells, this guard left the tower and patrolled a section of the island.

Guards 19–21. Patrol Guard on East Station; the same as for 16–18 above.

Guards 22–24. Patrol Guard on North Station; the same as for 16–18 above.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

584

Guards 25–27. Patrol guard on South Station; the same as for 16–18 above.

Guards 28–30. Armory Guard; one guard was in constant attendance in the armory. All fi rearms, ammunition, gas equipment, and supplies were kept in a concrete vault, protected by a steel safe door equipped with a 

combination lock. This armory was also the offi ce for lieutenants and the place where all central control of the 

custodial force was maintained. It was also the center of communications. No prisoner was allowed within 

this portion of the building.

Guards 31–32. West Gun Gallery; the same as for 8–9 above.

Guards 33–37. Relief Guards; it was customary to require prison employees to absorb the Saturday half-holiday as a part of the Sunday off -duty. On this basis, fi ve extra guard positions were needed for relief.

Guard 38. One extra guard was required to insure against sickness.

Guards 39–40. Annual leave; two extra positions were included in order that each guard could have the usual 

15 days annual leave.”

National Archives, Record Group 129, Bureau of Prisons, Johnston, “Guard Stations,” 4-49-0, Alcatraz.
585

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING

Appendix B 

APPENDIXES

Daily Routine and Regulations for Inmates, 1956
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

586
587

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING

Appendix C 

APPENDIXES

List of Surplus Property, May 15, 1963
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

588

Appendix D 

Description of Control Room, February 1960
589

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING APPENDIXES
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

590
591

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING APPENDIXES
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

592
593

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING APPENDIXES
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

594
595

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING

Appendix E

APPENDIXES

Descriptions of Cell Interiors by Warden Johnston

From James A. Johnston, Alcatraz Island Prison and the Men Who Live There, pp. 242–45.

[The visitors] asked me if they could examine some of the cells and I told them to go ahead, 

walk right in, note the contents and tell me what seemed to be of most interest.

In the fi rst cell they went into the bed was neatly made with mattresses covered, sheets clean 

and turned back even width, blankets brushed and folded, two pillows propped in place at 

the head of the bed. The fl oor was clean and the toilet bowl and wash basin were scoured to a 

shining white. A pair of neatly polished shoes were on the fl oor the toes just sticking out from 

under the bed. Two shelves the full width of the back wall had books standing on edge, family 

pictures, several medicine bottles, a folded hand towel and another small towel was hanging 

above the wash basin. On the side wall opposite the bed were colored pictures of California 

Missions; on one was printed “Mission San Carlos Borromeo, Carmel. Founded 1770”; the 

other was “Mission San Miguel Arcangel, San Miguel. Founded 1797.” Next to the pictures 

of the Missions was a calendar with the imprimatur of Thomas Joseph Walsh, Archbishop 

of Newark, each date blocked and colored and so arranged as to explain the holy days of the 

Catholic Church and historic briefs of the meanings of the colors of vestments for the daily 

mass. The nail that kept the calendar in place also held a string of rosary beads. On the small 

metal wall table opposite the bed were two books—The Worlds’ Great Madonnas by Cynthia 

Pearl Maus, and Lives of the Saints, with refl ection for every day in the year, compiled by Rev. 

Alban Butler.

The next cell that interested them looked like a law offi ce. The prisoner who occupied it had 

arranged two drawing boards 18 x 28 inches over the top of the standard metal table and with 

5 inch uprights between the two boards so he had a desk that he could use by sitting on the 

bed and putting his pillows between his back and the wall. On the desk and the shelves he 

had quite a law library including United States Code Title 18; United States Code Title 37; four 

volumes of United States Reports; a Volume of Congressional Records; Underhill’s Criminal 

Evidence; criminal appeals; cases on confl ict of laws; cases on pleading and procedure; Law 

of Waiver; Black’s Law Dictionary; copies of Harvard Law Review; and copies of numerous 

typed petitions he had prepared and presented to the courts all fi led in manila envelopes each 

properly marked as to contents. At the time he had a petition pending in the courts and was 

endeavoring to interest members of Congress in his case. 

As we walked the length of the cell house, up one aisle and down another, the visitors asked 

questions and I did my best to answer them. We stopped every time they saw a cell that 

seemed to be distinctive because of some unusual feature. One that attracted their attention 

had a sketch and an unfi nished painting upright on the table opposite the bed. The bed was 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

596

rumpled and the pillows were in the center just opposite the sketch and painting. The visitors asked me if the 

prisoner was an artist. I told them that he had a life sentence for killing a federal offi cer during the round up 

of gangsters in 1935 and that so far as I knew he had never sketched or painted until after he came to Alcatraz. 

Father Clark, our Catholic Chaplain showed some of his sketches and the work of a few other inmates to Mr. 

George Harris, a San Francisco Artist and Mr. Harris came over and gave him and the others some suggestions and advice and that gradually led to the establishment of an art class conducted on occasional Saturday 

or Sunday afternoons at a time that other prisoners used for other forms of recreation. The bed was neat and 

clean but the table and fl oor were cluttered with drawing boards and sketches and canvas paintings some being worked on, others apparently fi nished. We counted ten small sized canvas paintings; two boxes of paints; 

thirty fi ve assorted paint brushes in a wooden holder; three easels; one drawing board; a number of tubes of 

paint. On the wall opposite the bed was a spectrum chart of colors and shades. The sketch on the stand was 

made in the chapel when the priest was saying Mass and that was what had been started on the canvas.

By contrast the next cell we looked into was almost bare. The occupant was apparently satisfi ed with minimum equipment and made no eff ort to add anything or to do anything except what might be necessary to 

get by inspection. The bed was made, but sloppy. There was considerable granulated tobacco on the blankets 

indicating that the prisoner was rolling cigarettes while sitting on the bed and didn’t take the trouble to brush 

off what he spilled. There was more tobacco on the fl oor and some burnt matches. On the one back shelf was 

a wood framed mirror, a tin cup with shaving brush and the handle for holding a safety razor blade. His extra 

clothing was not hung or folded but part hanging over the shelf and part in the corner of the shelf jammed 

against the wall. On the metal table opposite the bed were several packages of pipe tobacco and one of granulated, several packages of cigarette papers, a box of matches and a scattering of loose matches. Piled on top of 

each other were four books—“A Man Must Fight” by Gene Tunney; “The Call of the Wild”; “Daughters of the 

Snow” and “The Iron Heel” by Jack London. On the fl oor, leaning against the table, was a guitar. I noted the 

number of the cell and the names of the occupant and passed a memo to the cell house offi cer with instructions to advise the man to clean quarters or be reported to the disciplinary board. 

The last cell that we looked into did not have many extras—in fact it had little besides the minimum standard 

furnishings but it was orderly and well arranged. The bed was properly made. Family pictures, books, change 

of clothing, medicine bottles, mirror and shaving outfi t were on the back shelf. Two news magazines were 

on the bed. On the small table, opposite the bed, there were three books, “Winston’s Simplifi ed Dictionary,” 

“World Almanac,” “Information Please Almanac.” The side walls were bare except for a United States 

Government calendar, one leaf for each month and at the top of each leaf printed slogans intended to stimulate the purchase of Government Savings Bonds. One of the sayings was circled with a pencil—the one that 

read “Lost time is never found again.” As we examined the calendar we saw another penciled circle and alongside of the date inside the circle were the words “Hair Cut.” Turning the leaves revealed the same notation on 

the fi rst Monday of every month.
597

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING

Appendix F

APPENDIXES

Shipping Ticket, June 16, 1934, and Transfer, September 1934
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

598
599

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING APPENDIXES
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

600

Appendix G

Optional List of Recommended Furnishings for Federal Penitentiary-Era Cell

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Bed, iron, two legs, attached to Figures C6–C13. Locate and acquire original or 

wall (against cell wall) See also fi gure P5 for bed folded against wall. fabricate.

Bedding: Figures C6–C13. Acquire.

Mattresses, two, cotton, blue and List of Articles in Cell, August 26, 1934 (hereafter, 

white ticking cover (on bed) “List, 1934”)

Sheets, two, white, bleached 

cotton (one on mattress, one as 

top sheet)

Pillow, cotton, blue and white 

ticking cover (at head of bed 

next to cell door)

Pillow case, white, bleached 

cotton (on pillow)

Blankets, three, wool, olive drab 

or dark gray (one on bed, two on 

foot of bed) 

Shoes, men’s brown leather, Figure C6. Acquire period or reproduction

Oxford-style; and List, 1934 shoes and socks.

Socks, men’s, brown (under bed 

or near fold-out table, one sock 

stuffed in each shoe) 

Toilet, white (on wall at foot of Physical evidence. See fi gures C17 and C18. Reinstall toilet in storage or 

bed) acquire.

Toilet paper, roll (in or near Common usage Acquire.

ventilation opening) 

Cleanser, can (under bed) Figure C6 Acquire period piece.

Sink, white, with one faucet (on Physical evidence. Select cell for furnishing with 

back cell wall, center) Figures C4, C5, C6 intact sink or reinstall sink 

 in storage. Use sink with one 

 faucet in the center of attached 

 backsplash.

Soap, one cake (on sink) Figures C4, C6. Acquire.

 List, 1934 

Sink stopper (on sink) Common usage Acquire.
601

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING APPENDIXES

OBJECT AND LOCATION EVIDENCE RECOMMENDATION

Toiletries: Figures C4, C5, C6. Acquire.

shaving cup, tin, with soap and List, 1934

brush

comb

nail clippers

toothpowder, can

toothbrush

drinking cup, tin 

Mirror, framed, for shaving (on Figure C6 Acquire or reproduce.

shelf above sink)

Books: Figure C6. Acquire.

Bible List, 1934

Library books, two (on shelf) 

Magazines, two, c. 1935 (on Figure C6. Acquire.

shelf or on fold-out table) List, 1934 

Face towel, cotton, white Figure C6. Acquire.

(hanging on nail under shelf) List, 1934 

Bath towel, cotton, white, 22 Figure C6. Acquire.

inches x 44 inches (hanging on List, 1934

nail under shelf) 

Table and seat, metal, fold-out Figure C6 Use cell with intact original table

(attached to wall or reproduce.

Ashtray (on fold-out table or on List, 1934 Acquire.

shelf) 

Tobacco, cigarette, in 1-ounce List, 1934 Acquire Duke Mixture, Golden

cloth pouch; and Grain, Bull Durham, Stud, or 

Cigarette papers, package (on Union Leader brand tobacco

fold-out table or on shelf) and papers.

Regulation book (on table) List, 1934 Reproduce.

Photograph, portrait, framed List, 1934: “Pictures of relatives only” Reproduce.

(on shelf) 

Whisk broom (in corner behind List, 1934 Acquire.

table) 

Coat, blue (on hook or nail List, 1934 Reproduce.

under shelf) 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

602
Bibliography

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING BIBLIOGRAPHY

603
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

604
Manuscript Collections 605

Golden Gate National Recreation Area. 

Alcatraz Island, Alcatraz Staff Files.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area. 

Park Archives Collection, Jack W. Fleming 

Alcatraz Collection. 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area. 

Park Archives Collection, Morris Ordway 

Collection.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Park 

Archives Collection, Weller Collection.

National Archives, College Park, Maryland. 

Records of the Federal Bureau of 

Investigation. Record Group 65. J. Edgar 

Hoover’s Offi ce Photo Files, ca. 1933–1972.

National Archives, College Park, Maryland. 

Records of the Offi ce of the Chief of 

Engineers. Record Group 77. Historical 

Records of Buildings and Record of 

Equipment and Condition of Buildings at 

Active Army Posts, 1905–1942.

National Archives, College Park, Maryland. 

Records of the Offi ce of the Quartermaster 

General. Record Group 92. Document File, 

1800–1914.

National Archives, College Park, Maryland. 

Records of the Public Buildings Service. 

Record Group 121. Alcatraz Island, 

California.

National Archives, College Park, Maryland. 

Records of the Bureau of Prisons. Record 

Group 129. Administrative Files, Class 4 

(Prison Matters), 1930–1937.

National Archives, San Bruno, California. 

Records of the Bureau of Prisons. Record 

Group 129. Administrative Files, 1934–1963. 

National Archives, San Bruno, California. 

Records of the Bureau of Prisons. Record 

Group 129. Supply, Equipment, and Facilities 

Maintenance Files, 1938–1964. 

National Archives, Washington, D.C. Records 

of the Adjutant General’s Offi ce. Record 

Group 94. Medical History, Alcatraz Island. 

National Archives, Washington, D.C. Records 

of the Adjutant General’s Offi ce. Record 

Group 94. Returns from U.S. Military Posts, 

1800–1916.

Government Publications

Architectural Resources Group, Alcatraz 

Cell House Historic Structure Report, Golden 

Gate National Recreation Area, National 

Park Service. San Francisco: Architectural 

Resources Group, May 1992.

Babyak, Jolene and John Martini. Historic 

Structure Report Addendum: The Alcatraz 

Cellhouse Numbering Systems, May 1999.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bibliography 
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

606

Federal Off enders 1934–1935. Fort 

Leavenworth, Kansas: Federal Prison 

Industries, Inc. Press, 1936.

Federal Off enders 1935–1936. Leavenworth, 

Kansas: Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 

1937.

Federal Off enders 1936–1937. Leavenworth, 

Kansas: Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 

1938.

Federal Off enders 1938. Leavenworth, Kansas: 

Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 1939.

Federal Off enders 1939. Leavenworth, Kansas: 

Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 1940.

Federal Off enders 1940. Leavenworth, Kansas: 

Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Press, 1941.

Madigan, Paul. Institution Rules and 

Regulations, United States Penitentiary, 

Alcatraz, California. Revised 1956. Reprint. 

San Francisco, California: Golden Gate 

National Parks Association, 1983.

Morrow, Col. W. M. Annual Report of the 

Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, 

Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1925. Private 

collection of John Martini. Photocopy in collection of Park Archives Collection, Golden 

Gate National Recreation Area.

Morrow, Col. W. M. Annual Report of the 

Pacifi c Branch, U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, 

Alcatraz, California, June 30, 1926. Private 

collection of John Martini. Photocopy in collection of Park Archives Collection, Golden 

Gate National Recreation Area.

Post Regulations, 1932, Pacifi c Branch, U.S. 

Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz, California. Jack 

Fleming Collection, Park Archives Collection, 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Regulations and information for the United 

States Disciplinary Barracks, Alcatraz 

California, for the guidance of General 

Prisoners Confi ned Therein. July 1, 1928. Park 

Archives Collection, Golden Gate Recreation 

Area.

Stewart, Maj. C. A. Military Prison 

Instructions (Alcatraz). November 13, 1930. 

Park Archives Collection, Golden Gate 

Recreation Area.

Thompson, Erwin N. The Rock: A History of 

Alcatraz Island, 1847–1972, Historic Resource 

Study, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, 

California. Denver: U. S. Department of the 

Interior, National Park Service, 1979.

U.S. Congress. House. Annual Report of Fort 

Leavenworth and Alcatraz Island Prisons, 1911. 

62nd Cong., 2d session, 1911. H. Doc. 215.

Weeks, Col. George. Annual Report of the 

Pacifi c Branch, U. S. Disciplinary barracks, 

Alcatraz, California. June 30, 1933. Park Archives 

Collection, Golden Gate Recreation Area.

Books

Babyak, Jolene. Breaking the Rock: The Great 

Escape from Alcatraz. Berkeley, California: 

Ariel Vamp Press, 2001.

Babyak, Jolene. Eyewitness on Alcatraz: Life 

on the Rock as told by the Guards, Families 

and Prisoners. Berkeley, California: Ariel 

Vamp Press, 1996.

Bankert, Marianne. Watchful Care: A History 

of America’s Nurse Anesthetists. New York: 

The Continuum Publishing Company, 1989.

Bates, Sanford. Prisons and Beyond. New 

York: The Macmillan Company, 1937.

Godwin, John. Alcatraz 1868–1963. New York: 

Doubleday, 1963.

Grosser, Philip. Uncle Sam’s Devil’s Island. 

Privately published, 1933.
607

Johnson, Troy J. We Hold the Rock: The 

Indian Occupation of Alcatraz, 1969 to 1971.

San Francisco: Golden Gate National Parks 

Association, 1997.

Johnston, James A. Alcatraz Island Prison and 

the Men Who Live There. New York: Charles 

Scribner’s Sons, 1949.

Martini, John. Alcatraz at War. San 

Francisco: Golden Gate National Parks 

Association, 2002.

Martini, John. Fortress Alcatraz: Guardian 

of the Golden Gate. Kailua, Hawaii: Pacifi c 

Monograph, 1990.

Odier, Pierre. The Rock: A History of Alcatraz, 

The Fort/The Prison. Eagle Rock, California: 

L’Image Odier, 1982.

Quillen, Jim. Alcatraz from Inside: The Hard 

Years, 1942–1952. San Francisco: Golden Gate 

National Park Association, 1991.

Williams, Nathan Glenn. From Alcatraz to the 

White House. Seattle: Willjoy Publishing, 1991.

Interviews

Albright, Jim. Interview by John Martini, August 

9, 2003. Notes in Park Archives Collection, 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Bergen, Philip. Interview by Karana HatterselyDrayton, August 12, 1991. Transcript, Golden 

Gate National Recreation Area Oral History 

Project, Park Archives Collection, Golden Gate 

National Recreation Area.

Bergen, Philip. Interview by John Martini, 

August 13, 2001. Notes in Park Archives Collection, Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Bergen, Philip. Telephone interview by author, September 19, 2000. Notes in Park 

Archives Collection, Golden Gate National 

Recreation Area.

Bertrand, Walter. Interview, no date. Transcript, 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area Oral 

History Project, Park Archives Collection, 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Blount, Ben. Conversation with author, 

Alcatraz Island, August 13, 2000. Notes in Park 

Archives Collection, Golden Gate National 

Recreation Area.

Delgado, Jim. Interview by John Martini, 

August 20, 2001. Notes in Park Archives Collection, Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

DiVincenzi, George. Interview by John 

Martini, August 9, 2003. Notes in Park 

Archives Collection, Golden Gate National 

Recreation Area.

Dudgeon, Arthur. Interview, no date. 

Transcript, Golden Gate National Recreation 

Area Oral History Project, Park Archives Collection, Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Fahrenson, Dr. G. Interview, January 1976. 

Transcript, Golden Gate National Recreation 

Area Oral History Project, Park Archives 

Collection, Golden Gate National Recreation 

Area.

Guilford, Robert. Interview by [?] Rumburg, 

no date. Transcript, Golden Gate National 

Recreation Area Oral History Project, Park 

Archives Collection, Golden Gate National 

Recreation Area.

Hack, Warren. Interview, January 7, 1978. 

Transcript, Park Archives Collection, Golden 

Gate National Recreation Area.

Levinson, Irving. Interview, August 1, 1977. 

Transcript, Golden Gate National Recreation 

Area Oral History Project, Park Archives 

Collection, Golden Gate National Recreation 

Area.

ALCATRAZ ISLAND: MAIN PRISON BUILDING BIBLIOGRAPHY
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HISTORIC FURNISHINGS REPORT

608

Loupy, Leon. Interview, no date. Draft transcript, Golden Gate National Recreation Area 

Oral History Project, Park Archives Collection, 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Mahoney, Patrick. Interview by John Martini, 

August 9, 2003. Notes in Park Archives Collection, Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Rayborn, Ben. Interview by John Martini, 

August 12, 2001. Transcript, Park Archives Collection, Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Reichel, Fred. Interview by Bob Kirby and Tom 

Ryan, September 22, 1981. Draft transcript, 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area Oral 

History Project, Park Archives Col lection, 

Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Articles and Correspondence

Martin, Winthrop. “A Common-Sense 

Prison.” The Review of Reviews, July 1930.

Martini, John. E-mail to author, August 10, 2002. 

Martini, John. E-mail to author, May 15, 2003.

Martini, John. E-mail to author, February 24, 

2004.

Sevigna, Anne. “Good Men on the Rock: 

The Religious Side of Alcatraz Federal 

Penitentiary.” June 2001. Internet posting. Print-out available in Park Archives 

Collection, Golden Gate National Recreation 

Area.

Other

Golden Gate National Recreation Area. 

Interpretive Photo Collection.

San Francisco Maritime National Historic 

Site. J. Porter Shaw Library. Photograph 

Collection.

San Francisco Public Library Web site. San 

Francisco Historical Photograph Collection. 

<http://Sfpl.lib.ca.us/librarylocations/

sfhistory/sfphoto.htm>.

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