CDCR Time Capsule
Much like opening a time capsule, these CDCR stories are reprinted from their original sources. Explore the history of CDCR as written at the time.
In 1854, rumors surrounding the new State Prison, along with multiple escapes, sparked the governor to request specific details on...
Read More About 1854: Escapes led governor to ask for prison statistics
A 1928 report on the education, library, religious activities and women's department highlights the successes of early efforts to rehabilitate...
An 1874 report by the state prison investigative committee details rehabilitation efforts, lists a typical mess hall menu and describes...
In 1855, rumors regarding mismanagement of the state prison at Point San Quentin caused alarm with state lawmakers. California was...
Read More About 1855: San Quentin probe recommends hiring warden, dressing inmates alike
A 1950 departmental training manual encapsulates training into 20 pages. The manual's introduction, written by Director of Corrections Richard A....
Read More About 1950 training manual emphasizes professionalism
An 1877 report of the prison directors shows the determination of staff as they dealt with a devastating fire that...
Read More About 1877 report: Incarcerated population, staff contain massive San Quentin fire
Former Correctional Officer William Conroy, who worked at San Quentin from 1903 to 1907, wrapped up his series on prison...
Read More About Jan. 5, 1912: Former officer on prison reform
The Santa Cruz Evening News published this piece by former correctional officer William Conroy on Jan. 4, 1912. Conroy describes...
Read More About Jan. 4, 1912: San Quentin officer describes duties
"It is often people ask me, 'What do you see at San Quentin going through the prison?' And about the...
Read More About 1912: Former officer describes SQ visitors tour
Former Correctional Officer William Conroy, who worked at San Quentin prison from 1903 to 1907, wrote this piece regarding food...