Trip 2005 - Alcatraz Island

 

 

 

 

 

Tim and Sarah hang out down below and look at stuff. There's plenty of stuff to look at, so I don't blame their actions. It doesn't look like they're very far away from me, but in actuality I was on top of the hill. Thanks to modern technology (zoom lenses on digital cameras) I'm able to trick you into thinking something false. One thing that I cannot do is use photo trickery to make these buildings on the right appear that they are still standing in their original form. This was where the families of the Alcatraz guards and personnel stayed on the island. It kind of makes sense, seeing as how this remote location is a difficult commute, but it would frighten me to be isolated on this island with some of the most dangerous criminals in the United States. I guess keeping the family together is important enough to take that risk.
You are allowed to roam the island at your own pace, and have access to most every area on the Rock. Some walkways and buildings are closed off to the public, mostly because of structural decay or the wildlife that occupies that area. The Rock is operated by the National Parks Association, so I trust that they have put our safety first.

Home

 

 

 

 

This is one such area that was closed to the resident members of the Alcatraz community. That didn't stop those people from attempting a daring escape from the island and towards freedom. By breaking the laws that protected them, they have given up the right to wander anywhere they wished without the fear of capture.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This light tower probably helped ships either find their way into the San Francisco Bay or detract them from approaching Alcatraz in an attempt to rescue some prisoners. This glowing beacon of light stood next to the Warden's House, which is now worn down by time. Both the tower and the Warden stood by as a reminder to everyone that on Alcatraz, there's always someone watching over for you waiting for you to make a mistake. When you do, you better hope that the mean old light house or the mean old Warden doesn't see you, because it's gonna be a long stay for you on Alcatraz.

 

 

The Rock offers the best views of the city and other surrounding San Francisco landmarks. From the island, you are treated to a unique perspective of this city because you are removed from it in a way that you could never have been if this island were not here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is one such area that is closed to the visiting public. That doesn't stop this bird from attempting the walk down the stairs and towards freedom. Protected by government laws, he is able to wander anywhere he wished without fear of capture.