The National Park Service and the Friends of Civil War Alcatraz host Living History Day, depicting life on Alcatraz Island during the Civil War, when it was a military fort. The story of Fort Alcatraz includes secessionist prisoners, the firing of cannons at a British warship, and the very beginnings of Alcatraz as a prison. During Living History Day, visitors have an opportunity to hear live Civil War era music, hear about California’s role in the Civil War, see military and civilian period attire worn by expert interpreters and take a guided tour of Fort Alcatraz. For more information about the role of Alcatraz during the Civil War, visit National Park Service learn history. For more information about the non-profit organization that supports Civil War programs on Alcatraz, and its informative newsletter, go to friendsofcivilwaralcatraz.org.

*These events are offered during the Day Tour only.