On this day in history, the notorious Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary closes its doors, marking the end of its role as a high-security prison housing some of America’s most notorious criminals. Located on an island in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz gained a reputation as an escape-proof facility during its 29 years of operation, capturing the public’s imagination through numerous escape attempts and Hollywood depictions. Alcatraz has since been added to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, open for tourism.
