Travelers exploring Cedar Ravine Road in Placerville, California, might spot a tall, intriguing pillar at the crossroads of Main Street. This is no ordinary marker. The Druid Monument stands nearly 20 feet high, its glass lamp glinting by day and, on occasion, glowing at night. This monument is more than just stone and symbol—it’s a tribute to a rich tradition, vivid history, and one passionate German immigrant who planted a society that shaped local life for more than a century.
Meet Frederick Sieg: Placerville’s Druidic Trailblazer
Back in 1853, Frederick Sieg left Germany for Missouri, then chased wild success west during the California Gold Rush. But mining gold was only part of the picture. Sieg truly made his mark in 1860 by founding the first Grove of the United Ancient Order of Druids in California, right in what was then called Hangtown. The Druids were not cloaked in mystery and moonlight, but instead, in the spirit of community, brotherhood, and charity.
Sieg’s first Grove soon inspired another in Coloma, followed by a third in San Francisco. He lived a full life in Placerville, becoming a respected local businessman and building a legacy that would see the city adopt his ideals of mutual aid, moral conduct, and unity. Sieg passed away in 1888, but his memory remains, notably in the Druid Monument that has graced Main Street since 1926.
A Monumental Dedication
The unveiling of the monument was far from a quiet affair. On September 5, 1926, a special train carried Druidic members and officers from San Francisco directly into Placerville. Dressed in ceremonial robes, they paraded through town, led by a rousing band. Local dignitaries and out-of-towners alike joined for speeches, songs, and even a special flame lit atop the memorial shaft. From start to finish, every note and word rang with pride for the community and harmony the Druids represented.
Once, fountains gurgled at the base of the pillar. They’ve since been replaced by cast plaques, but the monument still showcases oak leaves, daffodils, and a blazing glass torch—symbols of truth, justice, and the enduring light of knowledge.
So, What Were the Druids Doing Here?
Forget wild solstice rituals or swirling mists. Placerville’s Druids shared little with the ancient priests of Stonehenge legend. California’s order—established as the United Ancient Order of Druids of California—focused on benevolence, education, fraternity, and community support. When fortune failed local miners, the Druids stepped in, taking care of families, organizing burials, and funding scholarships for orphans.
Over 200 Groves (that’s Druid-speak for local lodges) popped up statewide at the society’s peak, drawing as many as 15,000 members. Meetings mixed business with lively dinners, ceremonies, and charity drives. Women and men joined affiliated branches (Circles and Chapters), each upholding their own set of guiding virtues—like Justice, Morality, and Brotherly Love.
A Pillar With Staying Power
Time has not swept away the Druid flame. The monument was lovingly restored twice, first in the 1970s and again in 2007. Each time, the community reaffirmed the importance of honoring both its founder and ongoing values. The Order itself still runs annual scholarships, hosts fundraisers, and keeps up the tradition of neighborly care.
Even today, members gather in historic places like Placerville’s Cary House Hotel. Though smaller in number, their mission endures: “United to Assist.” The group opens its doors for social meetups and community projects, proving that the best ancient rites involve lending a hand.
What to Look For When You Visit
When you find yourself at Main Street and Cedar Ravine Road, pay a closer look to the monument. Seek out:
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The pillar’s intricate carvings: oak leaves, daffodils, and Druidic emblems.
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The torch lamp: a symbol of continuous truth and enlightenment.
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Dedicated plaques that tell the story of the Druids and Frederick Sieg.
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The spirit of a city shaped by many hands—miners, musicians, mayors, and, of course, modern-day Druids.
Placerville’s Druid Monument isn’t just about what happened long ago—it’s a daily reminder that helping others never goes out of style. If you’re walking Main Street, take a moment and stand with the stone and lamp. You might just feel a sense of what unity and civic pride look like, all in one solid and stylish package.
Hungry for More?
Placerville’s Old West heart is packed with stories—look for the bell tower nearby (once rung for fires), historic shops, and friendly faces. Ask a local, and you might be lucky enough to hear a Druid story or two. And keep your eyes open after dark; some say the torch still blinks in the night, carrying forward over a century of goodwill and good company.
Sources: californiadruids.org, californiadruids.org
Header Image Source: google.com
