History

Please join us for the 1906 Fire and Quake 120th Anniversary Webinar with retired ranger and historian John Martini. Join us on zoom on April 14th, 2026, from 5:30pm - 6:45pm to learn about the role of the Presidio in the recovery, and how the parks continue to keep this history alive today.

From laundresses working in the military fort, to female leaders of the Native American Occupation, to formerly incarcerated women sharing their stories on the island today, women’s history is everywhere on Alcatraz.

Join National Park Service Rangers, and Volunteers as we demonstrate what life was like for all who served here during the American Civil War.

Hosted in the Red Power on Alcatraz: Perspective 50 Years Later exhibit, this event will highlight the 30 foot long tule reed boat created in partnership with local tribal community.

Learn about the history of pets on Alcatraz, including the "Puppy Steps," and in other prisons today.

Join us for Living History Day on Alcatraz. All activities are free and are designed to give the visitor a sense of what life was like on Alcatraz when it was an important seacoast defensive fort during the American Civil War.

Kick off Fleet Week at the Presidio with the 191st Army Reserve Rock Band.

Can comics help us better understand the U.S. prison system? Come find out on Alcatraz Island on October 17!

Authors Ken Widner and Mike Lynch will return to the Rock for a three-day book signing event on Alcatraz Island, spotlighting their bestselling book “Alcatraz: The Last Escape.”

Join the National Park Service for a Ranger-led hike through the rugged beauty of the Marin Headlands as we ascend to one of the most intriguing—and scenic—historical sites in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.