Today in History - January 1 (Happy New Year, VGT!)

1934 – Alcatraz Island becomes a United States federal prison.

© Bing Maps

Alcatraz

© Bing Maps

Alcatraz - restored guard tower

1909 – Drilling begins on the Lakeview Gusher.

© Google Maps

Site of the Lakeview Gusher

1894 – The Manchester Ship Canal, England, is officially opened to traffic.

© Bing Maps

Irlam Locks on Manchester Ship Canal

© Google Maps

Ship in Manchester Ship Canal

1845 – The Cobble Hill Tunnel in Brooklyn is completed.

© Google Maps

Manhole for Abandoned Tunnel Access