Timeline of Saqiya
Tracing the trajectory from extensive agriculture to intensive citrus economy, and finally to erasure.
Deep Roots
The exact founding date of Saqiya is unknown. However, the Jaffa hinterland has sustained human activity for thousands of years, suggesting habitation in this fertile spot long before recorded history.
Ottoman Tax Register
Saqiya recorded in the Defter-i Mufassal with 49 households (~270 residents). A thriving agricultural village.
Mukhtar Leadership
Sharia Court records list Hassan Hussein Atta and Mustafa Nadi as village leaders, maintaining a dual-clan power balance.
First British Census
Population recorded at 427 residents. The village begins its rapid demographic expansion.
British Mandate Census
Population recorded at 663 residents in 142 houses. The shift to concrete construction begins.
The School is Founded
A boys' elementary school is established. By 1945, it trains students in modern agriculture on 16 dunums of land.
The Citrus Peak
Population reaches 1,100. Saqiya becomes a center of the 'Orange Belt' with 2,422 dunums of citrus orchards.
The Fall (Operation Hametz)
Saqiya is shelled and encircled by the Alexandroni and Kiryati brigades. Villagers are forced to flee east.
Erasure & Replacement
The Israeli settlement of Or Yehuda is established on village lands. Most houses are demolished.
The Fragmented Present
Ten original houses remain standing. The community survives in the diaspora, notably in 'Hayy Jaffa' in Gaza.