September 2, 2005
the very name gives one chills, doesn’t it? on a sunny day it seems almost unbelievable that such a lovely little island could have once been such an menacing symbol of power. it’s just over a mile from the san francisco shore, and yet according to official records, none of the hundreds of men incarcerated during its 30 year reign as america’s most notorious high-security federal prison managed to escape. though lying within sight and sound of san francisco’s tantalizing promise of freedom, very few even attempted it. the prison maintained its status as “escape-proof” until it was taken out of service in 1963.
no one ever got off “the rock” and lived… or did they?
many thanks to ken bonfield for the use of the track “freedom”. please visit his website for info and more great guitar playing.
September 3, 2005 at 4:25 pm
you have never set foot on “the Rock”
September 5, 2005 at 4:25 pm
I would guess that you have NEVER been to Alcatraz.
Most San Franciscans - myself included during my 15 years by the Bay - are reluctant to rub elbows with a boatload of tourists.
September 6, 2005 at 4:26 pm
I have(as a tourist!) and it’s pretty depressing, except for the view…!
September 6, 2005 at 4:26 pm
I forgot my guess, my guess is just once!
September 8, 2005 at 4:26 pm
Hrm, I am going to guess you have been 3 times. I’ve gone to Alcatraz about that many times, usually to take out-of-town guests. It’s a little creepy, but I still love going.
September 10, 2005 at 4:27 pm
Hey.. like any good local you have not been there but admire it for it’s.. fearsome presence. I’ve ferried across the bay hundreds of times, from Sausalito and Larkspur, photographing Alcatraz in many interesting moods, I’ll have to send you some shots.
Richard, your writing and presence on the program are superb, congratulations,
Steve Wyro
September 11, 2005 at 4:27 pm
hi guys…
the sad truth is… in all these years i’ve NEVER been out there!
shameful, i know. there’s no doubt in my mind that if i didn’t live here, if i were just in town for a few days on a visit i’d make a point of seeing it, but somehow i’ve just never quite gotten around to it.
(if only i were a better swimmer. :)