History of Alcatraz Island: 1853-2008 - Hardcover

History of Alcatraz Island: 1853-2008

This hardcover historical account chronicles over 150 years of Alcatraz Island's transformation from a military fortress to America's most notorious federal penitentiary. Authored by Gregory L. Wellman, this comprehensive volume documents the island's complete timeline from 1853 through 2008.

Comprehensive Historical Documentation

This book provides detailed coverage of Alcatraz Island's multiple incarnations throughout American history. From its initial establishment as a military fortification during the Civil War era to its conversion into a federal prison housing some of the country's most infamous criminals, and finally its transition to a National Park Service landmark, this volume captures the complete narrative of the island's significance.

Western United States Historical Context

Part of the Arcadia Publishing Library Editions series, this hardcover edition places Alcatraz within the broader context of Western U.S. history. The book examines how the island's strategic location in San Francisco Bay influenced its various roles throughout different periods of American development.

Author Expertise

Gregory L. Wellman brings scholarly research and historical analysis to this examination of Alcatraz Island. The hardcover format ensures durability for library collections, academic research, and personal historical archives.

Publication Details

Published in May 2008, this hardcover edition represents a thorough historical compilation covering 155 years of documented history. The book serves as a valuable resource for researchers, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in California's cultural landmarks, federal prison history, or Western United States regional development.

Ideal For

This hardcover volume is suited for academic libraries, historical societies, collectors of regional American history, and readers with specific interest in California landmarks, federal penitentiary history, or San Francisco Bay area historical development. The comprehensive timeframe makes it an authoritative reference for understanding Alcatraz Island's complete historical trajectory.