Weyburn, Sask, City, pop 9534 (2001c), 9723 (1996c), 9673 (1991c), 10 153 (1986c), area 15.72 km2, inc 1912, is located on the SOURIS R in southeastern Saskatchewan, about 75 km from the international boundary. Weyburn became a village in 1902 as the result of a heavy inflow of Americans. There are 2 versions as to how it received its name. Most people prefer the romantic one, which concerns a party of thirsty Scots working their way west on a hot summer day. One member was said to have exclaimed "wee burn" upon seeing the Souris R for the first time. The second, and more practical, version contends that the city got its name from a railway construction contractor who named the site after his brother-in-law.
In the 1950s the Weyburn oil field was discovered in the area and since then oil has played a very significant role in the city's economy. Agricultural production continues to be its dominant industry.