Escaping from Alcatraz

There was no better way to start our third day in San Francisco than boarding the ferry to Alcatraz Island. It was a foggy morning on the pier as we walked down the ramp toward the boat that would take us to the former penitentiary. As we disembarked from the ferry, the fog cleared and the sun came out. The group gathered around a park ranger who gave us the low-down on the entire island. Then, to our surprise, the ranger introduced us all to William G. Baker, former prisoner at Alcatraz! After a few words from Mr. Baker, the real fun began as we made our way towards the start of the tour. We were given an audio recording and some headphones that would serve as our guide around the island. As I slipped the headphones over my ears, the sounds of footsteps, cell doors, and voices filled my ears and the old prison came to life around me. We were guided down the rows of cells, through the former library, into the dining hall and around the gardens of the former families who once lived on the island. The voices of ex-prisoners and former prison guards filled us with information about the prison as we walked around the island. After the tour concluded, we were given time to explore the gift shop, where we were able to purchase souvenirs such as shirts, books, and keychains, and even signed copies of William Baker's autobiography! We then explored the island on our own, taking pictures and enjoying the beautiful weather.