During the early Bronze Age, stone weigh anchors were known to be used; but the practice of weights to keep a boat anchored probably date back as far as fishing boats themselves. Ancient Greeks used baskets of stones, large sacks filled with sand, and wooden logs filled with lead. The baskets could also be made of wood, adding to the effectiveness of bouyancy and friction.
Scandinavians fashioned anchors made from iron and wooden stocks with arms that helpd distribute the force of the anchor. This design helped create the more tradtional design for weigh anchors.