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.

From food stores to work routines, the 1857 Appendix to the Assembly Journals included detailed descriptions of the inner workings...

A 1956 report of the state prison library program emphasized education, rehabilitation and personal growth. The report was written by...

In 1854, rumors surrounding the new State Prison, along with multiple escapes, sparked the governor to request specific details on...

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...

A 1950 departmental manual condenses training into 20 pages. The manual’s introduction, written by Director of Corrections Richard A. McGee,...

An 1877 report of the prison directors shows the determination of staff as they dealt with a devastating fire that...

Former Correctional Officer William Conroy, who worked at San Quentin from 1903 to 1907, wrapped up his series on prison...

The Santa Cruz Evening News published this piece by former correctional officer William Conroy on Jan. 4, 1912. Conroy describes...

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