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Alcatraz Historic Gardens

Historical mugshot of Richard Franseen, Alcatraz Inmate and gardener.
Stories

Incarcerated Gardeners: Richard Franseen

Richard Franseen was sentenced to Alcatraz from 1937 to 1946 for counterfeiting. By 1940, he was assigned to yard duties, tending to a greenhouse and a little garden.
A historical photo of an incarcerated gardener watering plants in the gardens of Alcatraz.
Parks

Alcatraz Incarcerated Gardeners

Learn about the stories of Alcatraz Island's incarcerated gardeners.
Flowers in bloom at Alcatraz Historic Gardens
Our Work

Alcatraz Historic Gardens Landscape Preservation Planning

Find out the story behind the preservation of the Alcatraz Historic Gardens.
Alcatraz Gardens
Parks

Alcatraz Historic Gardens Gallery

Alcatraz’s current visitors experience an island that is alive with colorful plants gathered decades ago from around the world, and complemented by newly-introduced plants. These historic gardens not only illustrate the importance of gardens to the human spirit, but also the ecological benefits and aesthetic possibilities of sustainable gardening.