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What is the History of Alcatraz?

Alcatraz was a prison in San Francisco Bay that operated from 1934 to 1963. Located on a rocky island, the prison housed some of America’s most dangerous criminals, including mobsters Al Capone.

Alcatraz is notorious for being home to some of America’s most dangerous criminals, including gangsters and murderers. Al Capone, known as “Scarface” from his days as a Chicago mobster, spent four years in Alcatraz before being released due to poor health.

Other notable prisoners included Machine Gun Kelly, Robert Franklin Stroud – the “Birdman of Alcatraz” – and the John and Clarence Anglin who attempted the iconic 1962 escape attempt.

Despite strict security, escape attempts were said to be frequent even after they closed it down as a prison in 1963. Today it is a tourist attraction and many believe the infamous prison is haunted by the ghosts of its former inmates and guards.

Read about more haunted prisons around the world: Here

Paranormal Activity Reported Inside Alcatraz

In addition to its infamous inmates, there have been reported sightings of paranormal activity inside the prison walls. Reports claim that the ghostly sounds of laughter, screams and metal clanging can all be heard throughout Alcatraz at night.

Others report seeing apparitions standing in front of bars as well as mysterious figures roaming around the deserted hallways of the cell block. These spooky tales have remained a mystery over time.

The Ghost Story of the Birdman

The most well-known ghost story of Alcatraz revolves around an inmate named Robert Stroud, also known as the “Birdman of Alcatraz.” It has been said that haunting cries of birds can still be heard echoing off the walls of Alcatraz after the prison shut down in 1963.

It is believed that these are the same cries he kept hearing while caring for birds while he was incarcerated. Additionally, some have reported seeing his ghost wandering around the prison grounds late at night.

Other Notable Spooky Legends Related to Alcatraz

Other than the story of Robert Stroud, there are a few other notable legends surrounding Alcatraz that make it one of the most haunted places in America. Reports of strange glowing orbs, mysterious whispers, and fountains running with blood have all been attributed to this infamous prison.

Additionally, some believe it is still haunted by its former prisoners who died during their time here. Whether or not you believe these stories, the dark history of Alcatraz will leave you feeling like you’re being watched…even today!