"Skunkman" Creator of Legendary Strains Passes Away
David Watson, also known as Sam The Skunkman, was one of the pioneers of cannabis cultivation in the Netherlands. He is credited with creating legendary strains such as Skunk #1 and Amnesia, which have become part of the history of cannabis genetics. He sadly passed away days ago on January 27th.
In the 1980s, cooperation between American and Dutch growers helped develop modern cannabis cultivation techniques. The genetic legacy of that era is still evident in many strains today.
In 1985, Sam The Skunkman moved to the Netherlands, taking with him an impressive stock of 250,000 seeds from the Sacred Seed Club, a Californian group of leading American growers. In the Netherlands, he worked with pioneers of the cannabis revolution, including Wernard Bruining, founder of Amsterdam's first coffeeshop, Mellow Yellow, and Soft Secrets magazine. He was also the creator of one of the first seed banks, Cultivator's Choice.
Although many consider him one of the most outstanding cannabis breeders, there is no shortage of voices questioning his contribution. Some questioned his authorship of legendary strains and also accused him of collaborating with the American drug enforcement agency DEA in exchange for avoiding legal consequences.
What was the Skunkman's Legacy?
One of Sam the Skunkman's most important achievements was the creation of Skunk #1, a hybrid based on Afghan, Colombian, and Mexican genetics. This strain revolutionized the cannabis market in the 1980s, distinguished by its intense aroma and high potency. Its popularity led to the term "Skunk" being used to describe Dutch marijuana. The seed bank Sensi Seeds still sells it today.
Sam the Skunkman also played a significant role in the creation of Amnesia Haze, known as Amnesia. Although there are several versions of its origins, it is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable and valued marijuana strains in the world.
In March 1985, the American DEA raided the Sacred Seed Club in Santa Cruz. Some witnesses claim that Sam The Skunkman was among those arrested, but after a few days, he left custody and travelled to Amsterdam. There is speculation that his release was the result of cooperation with the DEA, which remains a subject of discussion in the cannabis community.
His passing has shaken the entire cannabis industry, with many well-known growers paying tribute to him on social media. “It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of a man who single-handedly changed the trajectory of an entire industry for decades and shaped generations of growers… He was the creator of Skunk and Original Haze. David Watson’s contribution to cannabis will forever cement him as the greatest grower to ever work for the plant. Rage-In-Paradise, my friend…” the growers of Aficionado French Connection wrote on Instagram.
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