History of Weed

Located in Siskiyou County at the western foothills of Mount Shasta, the City of Weed has a distinct and storied past.

Founding & Early Growth

The city is named for Abner Weed, a timber entrepreneur who purchased the Siskiyou Lumber and Mercantile Mill in 1897 along with about 280 acres of land. He chose the location in part because of strong prevailing winds that could help dry lumber.
Over time, the mill became the economic engine of the area, with the settlement growing around the lumber operations.
Weed was officially incorporated on January 25, 1961.

Economy, Transition & Identity

For many decades, the local economy was heavily dependent on timber – sawmills, wood treatment, plywood production, door and window manufacturing, and related industries were major employers.
As the timber industry contracted, Weed has worked to diversify its economy, supporting light industry, retail, and positioning itself as a gateway to outdoor recreation in the region.
The name “Weed” has drawn public attention and occasional jokes, especially in connection with cannabis. In recent years, the city has faced decisions about how to respond to that attention—balancing respect for its name’s origin, local values, and economic opportunity.

Challenges & Resilience

Weed has faced significant natural setbacks. In September 2014, the Boles Fire swept through the city under strong winds, damaging over 200 structures and leading to evacuations.
In 2022, the Mill Fire caused damage to parts of Weed, especially in neighborhoods like Lincoln Heights.
Water security has also been a contentious issue. The city depends on Beaughan Spring for its water supply. In 2016, proposals to divert water for bottling stirred community concern, and by 2021, a compromise was reached to ensure long-term city access to the spring.

Culture, Community & Diversity

The lumber economy drew a wide range of people, including immigrants from Italy, Mexico, and Southeast Asia, contributing to a culturally diverse population.
In older neighborhoods, some streets are named after Italian cities such as Rome, Venice, and Genoa, reflecting the lasting influence of Italian immigrants.
Weed’s Italian heritage also gave rise to community traditions—one is the annual carnevale (carnival), which once carried the name “Weed Italian Carnevale,” with bocce tournaments and other cultural events. Over time, the “Italian” has been dropped from the name, but the tradition continues.

Fun Facts About Weed

Named after Abner Weed, who bought the mill site in 1897 for $400.
Once home to one of the largest sawmills in the world.
Strong mountain winds were used to help dry lumber naturally.
Famous name — locals embrace it with “I ♥ Weed” merchandise.
Italian heritage lives on in street names (Rome, Venice, Genoa) and the annual Carnevale.
Survived two major disasters: the Boles Fire (2014) and the Mill Fire (2022).
City water comes from Beaughan Spring, a treasured community resource.

Weed Timeline