State of Jefferson

The mythical State of Jefferson lies a mountainous area that spans the border between Northern California and Southern Oregon. The original borders of Oregon and California were arbitrarily set by east coast bureaucrats and do not reflect the unique characteristics, geography, economy or citizens of this area. Stretching from the northern end of California’s central valley past the northern terminus of the Siskyou Mountains, and from the Pacific Ocean to east of the Cascade Mountains, this area is distinctive for its natural resources, rural atmosphere and independent population. Historically this area has been isolated from the main population areas of the mother States, which has led to a long history of discontent, and several attempts to form a new State that would more better represent its citizens.

First settled by emigrants in the 1840’s and 1850’s, mining and agriculture quickly grew. Transportation issues became a concern to the population, who being many miles from the capitals and centers of commerce of their respective states, tended to feel isolated and neglected. The first recorded rebellion occurred in 1852, when, in the first California legislature a bill was introduced to create a “State of Shasta” which encompassed much of what is now Jefferson. The bill died in committee because of the pressure of other legislative business. The following year a new attempt was made, with the state to be called “State of Klamath,” but this effort was ended by a major Indian uprising which occurred that year.

In 1854 a new statehood movement was begun, variously called “The Jackson Territory” and the “State of Jefferson.” A proposal for the creation of such a state was presented before congress, and agitation continued until Oregon was granted statehood in 1859.

By 1935, concerns over the poor roadways, which hampered the logging, mining and agricultural industries of the area, had become the major source of discontent. In November, 1941, a provisional government was elected with Judge John L. Childs of Crescent City as governor. In Yreka, a Proclamation of Independence was printed and armed citizens erected roadblocks across Highway 99 and began collecting tolls from travelers who were “crossing the state line.” The “Great Seal of the State of Jefferson” was created - a gold pan with “XX” painted on the bottom. This symbolized Jeffersonians being “double-crossed” by their mother states.

On December 4th, 1941, several major newspapers and magazines arrived in Yreka for the inauguration of Judge John L. Childs as governor. Three days later the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor and the State of Jefferson blew away on the winds of war.

But the legacy of Jefferson still lived. In 1956, groups from Dunsmuir and Cave Junction threatened to secede and take the “State of Shasta” with them. Quick action in the Oregon and California legislatures temporarily mollified them. As recently as the 1990’s an advisory plebiscite appeared statewide on the California ballot proposing the division of California into two, or three, separate states.

Today, reminders remain. One can find the Jefferson State Bank and listen to Jefferson Public Radio. As you travel through the scenic and rugged State of Jefferson, keep your eyes open for signs. Jefferson is a State of Mind.

In the summer of 2000, a number of alpaca breeders began meeting to explore the possibility of forming a cooperative organization promoting alpacas in the area. The State of Jefferson Alpaca Association was born, and the name came naturally. Our members’ farms stretch the width and breadth of Jefferson. Visitors to the State of Jefferson can find alpacas from Redding to Roseburg, and from Gold Beach to Klamath Falls.

Other State of Jefferson Links

This site offers a comprehensive description of the State of Jefferson, its history, geography and people.

The State of Jefferson is part of a larger mythical political region called Cascadia, as explained on this site.