CDCR Time Capsule
Much like opening a time capsule, these stories are reprinted from their original sources, only edited for length. Explore the history of the department as it was written at the time.
This 1967-68 departmental Progress Report outlined numerous shifts in managing the state's prison system including a new family visiting program...
Read More About 1967‑68: Department outlines progress in biennial report

The department's biennial report dated 1959-1960 outlined the new facility coming online at California Men's Colony. This document provides a...
Read More About 1960: New facility at California Men’s Colony

(Editor’s note: A job description for a Correctional Officer in the 1950s included pay scale and information on the examination....
Read More About 1957: Correctional Officer job duties, pay described

In 2003, the department had three institutions using dogs to sniff out contraband. Learn more about the first K-9s --...
Read More About 2003: For these four‑legged employees, work is always fun

Meet Correctional Officer Mike Begley, a 14-year San Quentin veteran and a man of few words, who is the desk...
Read More About 2002: San Quentin officer keeps death row running smoothly

Revisit this 2002 story on Folsom Prison teacher Linda Nielsen. It was originally published as part of the Day in...

In 1975, the department profiled Los Angeles Parole Agent Harvey Watson. He'd been an agent for three years and before...
Read More About 1975: LA Parole Agent Harvey Watson is on the job

1991: Wasco acting Warden Mike Carillo said, “It was a team effort. I’m extremely pleased with the assignment. This is...
Read More About 1991: Wasco State Prison and Reception Center opens doors