Behind a fence built by the U.S. military, the strangely-shaped and heavily rusted building directly in front of you was mainly used for laundry. But a few rooms were converted to workshops that could be used by inmates. Later on, these activities were moved into the New Industries Building, right behind you, which was constructed in 1939 as part of a modernization project. It used to have a guard tower and a catwalk on the roof, but it’s not there anymore. This two-story, 306 foot (94 m) long building served many purposes: clothing factory, dry cleaning plant, furniture plant, and brush factory. Inmates made gloves, furniture mats, and army uniforms. They could even earn some money. Small wages were put into their account called the Prisoner's Trust Fund. This money was given to them when they left the prison. The laundry on the upper floor was, surprisingly, one of the largest ones in San Francisco back then.
It would be great if we could continue and walk around the island, but unfortunately, that is not possible. So please head back the same way you came until you reach the “Social Hall”. If you need help finding it, it’s building number 11 on the map. Once you get there, turn right and walk up the hill.
