Alcatraz Penitentiary is probably the most famous prison in United States history. It was built in the 1930's on an island in the San Francisco Bay. It was built with the intention to house the worst of the worst in a place that was virtually inescapable. Some of its infamous prisoners included Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. During its time as a prison, Alcatraz was known for its less than accommodating conditions.
Alcatraz was only open for 29 years, but it was a violent 29 years. One of the most violent of those instances, The Battle of Alcatraz, occurred when inmates attempted to escape resulting in the deaths of prison guards and inmates alike.
Today, Alcatraz Penitentiary is a tourist destination for many who visit San Francisco each year. It is a popular place for ghost hunters as well. Much of the prison is said to be haunted by the ghosts of the inmates who perished within its walls. Banjo music is said to be heard in the showers; while up on the cell block, an angry ghost of a murderer still lurks looking for his next victim. One of the scariest spots in the prison is cell 14D. It is said that in the 1940's an inmate who was housed in 14D kept screaming that a creature was trying to kill him. The next morning, he was found dead on the floor, murdered. Visitors today claim that the spirit of the man is still in there, waiting for help. Cold spots and feelings of being touched are common in cell 14D. Disembodied voices, apparitions, orbs, and more have all been witnessed at Alcatraz as well.
Ghost tours are offered during the spring and summer months for those brave enough to give it a try. So, if you are ever in San Francisco and up for a little ghostly fun, check it out!
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