Details:

Robert Stroud, the notorious American prisoner known as the "Birdman of Alcatraz," autographed handwritten letter (ALS), dated July 24, 1954, written while incarcerated at the federal penitentiary on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay.

The two-page letter is written on both sides of a single sheet of lined paper, featuring Stroud's handwritten return address at Alcatraz and his prison identification number, 594.

In this personal correspondence, Stroud discusses his financial circumstances, anticipated funds, and various practical matters concerning his life in prison. He also recalls fellow prisoners and acquaintances from earlier periods of his incarceration, offering observations about their personalities and circumstances.

The letter provides an interesting glimpse into Stroud's daily concerns and personal relationships during his lengthy imprisonment. Despite his notorious reputation, the correspondence is conversational and reflective, revealing aspects of his life beyond the sensationalized accounts of his criminal history.

Stroud begins writing the letter in ink before switching to pencil approximately halfway through the correspondence. The letter concludes with his handwritten signature, "Robert Stroud," followed by his prison identification number.

The letter measures approximately 8 x 10 inches. Fine condition.

Robert Franklin Stroud (1890–1963), popularly known as the "Birdman of Alcatraz," was an American convicted murderer who became one of the most famous prisoners in United States history. Initially imprisoned for manslaughter in 1909, he subsequently murdered a prison guard at Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary in 1916 and received a death sentence that was later commuted to life imprisonment.

While incarcerated at Leavenworth, Stroud developed an extensive interest in ornithology, studying bird diseases and writing respected works on avian medicine. He was transferred to Alcatraz in 1942, where he remained until 1959.

Stroud's extraordinary story inspired the 1962 film Birdman of Alcatraz, starring Burt Lancaster, which earned four Academy Award nominations. Although the film popularized his nickname, Stroud conducted his famous bird studies at Leavenworth rather than Alcatraz. He died in federal custody in 1963 after spending more than five decades imprisoned.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11700 1419452-1