National Park Service Photo
Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, in the center of San Francisco
Bay, is probably the most famous prison in America, known as
much for its host of famous prisoners, such as Al Capone and
Robert Stroud (the Birdman), as for its legendary security.
It is maintained that no one ever escaped "The Rock" and
survived without being captured. The cold waters, isolated
location, and strong currents deterred almost every escape attempt.
Alcatraz attracts thousands of visitors
every year for tours and is the subject of
numerous books and films. Information about the history
of the island and the prison, is available from the
National Park Service.
These files detail the extensive investigation conducted by
the FBI after guards at Alcatraz discovered dummy faces in
the bunks of three prisoners on the morning of June 12, 1962.
Officials found that Frank Lee Morris, John William Anglin,
and Clarence Anglin apparently had created a makeshift raft
from rubber raincoats for their escape. Although evidence
of when and how the escape took place was collected,
no evidence was ever found that the three escapees ever reached
the shore. All three are presumed dead.