A picture was taken in 1956 of a guard operating one of the prison’s “snitch boxes,” as named by the prisoners. The boxes were both static and portable and were used to detect metals such as weapons and contraband. As it is in all prisons, and not only in Alcatraz, metal of any sort was prohibited.
A simple object like a fork or even a spoon could immediately become a harsh weapon or a digging device for making the way to freedom. Spoons were used to carve through the sand that was behind the tiled walls and forks; well, there is no need to explain how a fork can easily turn into a severe injury weapon.
The Cellblock
This next image shows what the cellblocks looked like from the outside. Now, although the photo is black and white, it didnt look any better even when in color. The cells were smaller than average, and the inmates didnt get more than a hard bed to sleep on.
The cell didnt consist of anything much more than that, and the day-to-day was pretty much basic. These blocks consisted of 336 cells, and on average, 260 of them were filled. In addition to these cells, around 40 other cells were called "solitary confinement." Over the years, there were 1557 prisoners who spent their days in cells looking like this.
Al Capone
Alphonse Gabriel Capone, also called "Scarface," is one of the most notable American gangsters in history. After years of gang activity, he was imprisoned; however, he was accused of receiving special treatment. It was then suggested he move to Alcatraz, where he served seven and a half years.
While serving time at “The Rock,” Capone was injured by another inmate with scissors from the prison barbershop. He was injured but survived and finished serving his sentence in 1939. It was reported that Capone paid all of his duties back to society, paid his fines and taxes back, and in 1947, he passed away outside of the prison walls.
The Inmate Band
So, not everything was terribly bad in Alcatraz. Although many inmates were locked up behind the prison's walls for life, they were still given the option to have a phone conversation every now and then. This photo was taken sometime in the 1950s, and it shows a prisoner during a phone conversation.
The prison guard is standing right behind him, not giving the prisoner any chance for privacy. Unlike today, where phone conversations can be monitored and listened to, even from afar, this was the only way the prison could ensure nothing (yet again(illegal was going on).
The Menu
The Alcatraz mess hall food was not known for its diversity. This menu from 1956 is typical, with one type of meat, sides, and dessert offered. Now, to us, the menu seems to be rich and satisfying, consisting of appetizing dishes; however, could you imagine being served almost the same thing day in and day out? This was worse than a school dinner.
You could always exchange your school dinner with a packed lunch from home that would include a tuna sandwich; however, when it came to Alcatraz and possibly any other prison, what was served today would probably be served the next day.