Friends of Civil War Alcatraz

Mission

Friends of Civil War Alcatraz was founded in 2005. It is a nonprofit organization of historians who are working to share the history of the Civil War and the role of San Francisco in the Civil War experience (circa 1861-1865). In partnership with the National Park Service on Alcatraz Island, we work on educational and interpretive history projects as well as conservation, research, planning, and park improvements.

Featured Fun

Friday, September 25, 2020 at 4:00PM – (Virtual) Early History of Alcatraz Island

The Friends of Civil War Alcatraz is a group of historians, educators, veterans, and re-enactors whose aim is to promote a greater understanding of the role of California and San Francisco during the Civil War. Specifically, they partner with the National Park Service in presenting programs on Alcatraz and at Fort Point that describe the forts’ architecture, armaments, and the life of the soldiers stationed there. They host living history days a twice a year at both locations, and visit schools to bring history to life for the students.
In today’s online presentation you will hear little-known stories about the early history of Alcatraz and meet some of their members who are re-enactor/historians. Fun for the whole family!
This event is free but pre-registration is required.

Sunday, September 27, 2020 at 1:00PM and 2:00PM – (In-Person) Civil War San Francisco with Friends of Civil War Alcatraz

Steve Johnson, a member of the Friends of Civil War Alcatraz, will tell you about San Francisco during the Civil War at the Black Point overlook at this 30-minute guided experience of Upper Fort Mason. You will hear how and why the city was defended by a system of forts, the armaments used, and the attempt to steal gold by secessionists in 1863.

This event is free but pre-registration is required; the meeting location will be emailed to you upon registration. Space is limited to 10 attendees for health and safety. Limited parking is available at Upper Fort Mason.

Register for the 1:00PM event. Register for the 2:00PM event.