Alcatraz is an infamous prison that was built in the 1850’s by its first inmates, military prisoners. This prison was colloquially known as the “The Rock”. The prison was used by the army for eighty-three years, at that time, the Federal Government decided to turn it into a penitentiary for the most hardened criminals.
The idea behind Alcatraz was to wear down its prisoners by forcing them to maintain the monotony of a routine in this isolated prison until they have served their time
Like any prison, an inmates basic needs; clothing, food, medical care and shelter were provided. Anything beyond that was either earned or smuggled in. Famous prisoners who stayed at Alcatraz included Al Capone, Machine Gun-Kelly, and other mobsters. In other prisons, famous gangsters were given special prisoners. This was not the case at Alcatraz.
In addition to famous gangsters, Alcatraz housed violent killers and other dangerous inmates who could not be managed in a prison with less security. Prisoners have tried to escape with disastrous results. Would be escapees have drowned in the surrounding water of the San Francisco Bay. There has also been violence within the prison, such as the riot now known as the Battle of Alcatraz that killed both guards and prisoners.
Violence was so common place at Alcatraz as to be unremarkable. There were at least eight murders, but probably more, to happen on the grounds. In addition to the murder and the violence, psyches and sanity were challenged at Alcatraz by solitary confinement in what was known as “the hole”.
But does this horrible history mean that Alcatraz is haunted? There is strong evidence, especially since everyone who worked there reported of feeling things that were out of the ordinary. The traditional signs cold spots, mysterious sounds, unexplained music, were all there.
What makes a place haunted
Places become haunted because negative energy leaves an imprint like a photograph. In a place like Alcatraz where countless tragedies were played out, it is a veritable playground for supernatural.
There are two common factors in hauntings:
* Distressing and powerful emotions experienced in the location. Because trauma and sadness leave the strongest imprints, it is uncommon for a place to be haunted by happiness. Not only is Alcatraz host to horrible experience, the nearby Golden Gate Bridge has been proven to be haunted.
*Lack of closure. When a cataclysmic event does not play out in a satisfying way, the spirits involved are in turmoil. And with no hope of a resolution in the past, the energies remain, perhaps seeking future release.
Is there hope for a haunted place?
What happens if you suddenly find yourself in a frightening area? If you are in a hotel, you can just switch rooms. But what if you can’t relocate around the haunting? Then you just have to confront your fears. First, you have to find out if there’s a reasonable explanation for the spooky setting. If you have ruled everything out, then you need to do your homework. You can consult property records, crime blotters and other news sources to see if there was any significant drama at the location
Once you have figured this out, you need to face the trauma and do what you can to help it heal. Approach your situation with understanding and compassion of the trapped souls. Remember that they are hurting. There are many different rituals that can help bring new vitality to your space. Only you can determine what is the best for you.
Once the spirits have started to leave, redecorate your space with your special touches. Make sure you make the space as cozy and comfortable as you can. As you make new memories, the energies in the space will change.
Beware!
If you think you are spiritually outnumbered by a place you may want to consult a spiritual advisor to help before you tackle the project on your own. In places such as Alcatraz that are teeming with the energies of a tormented souls, an arsenal of healers is needed. If your living space is only mildly spooky, you should be able to handle it on your own. Just don’t bite off more than you can chew by taking on the challenge of exorcising a condemned slaughterhouse.
The steps provided for dealing with haunted spaces are quite comprehensive. However, the practicality of some suggested rituals might be challenging for those without a strong belief in the supernatural.
I agree. While the idea of making a haunted space more comfortable is appealing, the notion of trapped souls might not resonate with everyone.
True, the suggested rituals might be more symbolic than effective. Consulting historical records, however, can provide useful context for understanding any strange occurrences.
The historical context of Alcatraz is certainly fascinating. Its transition from a military prison to a federal penitentiary for the most dangerous criminals highlights the evolving nature of the American penal system.
The mention of famous inmates such as Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly adds a layer of intrigue to Alcatraz’s history. However, it is important to look beyond the notoriety and consider the psychological impact on all inmates.
The idea of Alcatraz being haunted is intriguing, but the explanations offered for hauntings—such as negative energy and lack of closure—could benefit from a more scientific examination. Are there any psychological or environmental factors contributing to these perceptions?
The article raises an important point about the emotional and psychological toll of Alcatraz on its inmates. Solitary confinement, known as ‘the hole,’ likely exacerbated the mental health issues of those incarcerated there.