Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Parks Archives

John Martini Collection

John Reinhardt

Julie Esslinger

Library of Congress Historical Photograph Collection

Lori Brosnan (National Park Service Photo - Taken by Ranger Lori Brosnan)

Michael Esslinger

National Archives and Records Administration

National Park Service / Golden Gate National Recreation Area Museum Collection

Patty Terry & William Radkay Family Collection

Phil Dollison Collection, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Parks Archives, GOGA Catalog Index number provided in the print version.

Ronnie Comeau, iStock Photography

San Francisco Chronicle / San Francisco Call Bulletin / Examiner Photo Archives

San Francisco Public Library, History Center Archives

United States Coast Guard Archives

Washington State Historical Society

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Esslinger is a historical researcher and best-selling author whose acclaimed work has appeared in numerous books, film and television documentaries, including segments on the Discovery, National Geographic and History Channels. His work spans entertainment, science, politics and historical subjects.

From the elusive crew of Apollo 11, to inmates of Alcatraz, he has interviewed icons and other figures that have shaped history and continues to write on subjects that explore a vast spectrum of the human experience.

His books ALCATRAZ – A Definitive History of the Penitentiary Yearsand LETTERS FROM ALCATRAZcontinue as best-selling references chronicling the island’s rich historical past. He is the co-author of the memoir:   I WANT IT NOW! A Memoir of Life on the Set of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, amagical memoirwrittenwith Julie Dawn Cole, the original Veruca Salt in the classic motion picture with Gene Wilder.

Current projects include a comprehensive history on the Apollo Program, documenting mankind’s epic journey to the moon, and Al Capone - The King of Alcatraz,a historical account of Capone’s years on the Rock. Visit www.HistoryArchive.com for more information current and future works.

He resides on the California Coast with his wife and three sons.