Alcatraz Incarcerated Gardeners Photo Gallery

An Alcatraz incarcerated gardener stands in Officers' Row
In the 1940s, incarcerated men were allowed to tend to the gardens of Alcatraz.

Joseph Simpson

A historical photo of an incarcerated gardener watering plants in the gardens of Alcatraz.
An incarcerated gardener watering plants in the gardens of Alcatraz. 1950s.

Joseph H. Simpson / GGNRA, Park Archives

Alcatraz inmate standing in the garden with rose bushes, historic photo
An Alcatraz inmate stands in the rose garden. 1940s

Joseph H. Simpson / GGNRA, Park Archives

Two Alcatraz inmates standing in the garden
Two inmates at Alcatraz Gardens. 1940s

Joseph H. Simpson / GGNRA, Park Archives

Mugshot of Elliot Michener, Alcatraz inmate and gardener.
Elliot Michener, Alcatraz inmate and gardener.
Historic black and white photo of Alcatraz inmate gardener Elliot Michener standing by the green house
Inmate gardener Elliot Michener by the greenhouse..

Presidio Archives

© 2025 Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy. All rights reserved.