Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site
W side of Ganado, Ganado, AZThe mobile trader often was the first contact the Indians had with the white man. His products strongly influenced their material culture and economic society. As the middle man, he played a part in their adjustment to the ways of the whites. When the trader later became a resident on a reservation, he provided needed food, as well as materials for Indian crafts, and helped the Indians to adapt to the new environment and culture by advice and encouragement, contributing to the eventual control and adjustment of the Indians. His Welfare depended on the Indian and the Indians on him.
The Hubbell Trading Post, established in 1878 on the Navajo Reservation, is a unique example of the work of these men. It was the most important trading post on the reservation, has been operated for more than 80 years by the same family, and was the first of a chain of Hubbell posts on the reservation.
Navajo trade was considerably influenced by John Lorenzo Hubbell. He is probably more responsible than any one individual for the development of Navajo crafts as a native industry. He took part in helping them to develop their native economy and to adjust to new conditions. His reputation for fairness and good permeated new trading enterprises from which the Navajos also benefited.
Few changes have been made to the present well-preserved post and house, which replaced a smaller structure about 1900, and a barn and utility building. The appearance of these structures, built mainly of native stone, differs little from other trading posts on the reservation. However, the house interior, with furnishings from the late 1800s, collections of old Indian crafts, old firearms, paintings, photographs, books, and large numbers of Navajo rugs, reflects the personality and Interests of the man and his time.
Local significance of the district:
The Hubbell Trading Post, established in 1878 on the Navajo Reservation, is a unique example of the work of these men. It was the most important trading post on the reservation, has been operated for more than 80 years by the same family, and was the first of a chain of Hubbell posts on the reservation.
Navajo trade was considerably influenced by John Lorenzo Hubbell. He is probably more responsible than any one individual for the development of Navajo crafts as a native industry. He took part in helping them to develop their native economy and to adjust to new conditions. His reputation for fairness and good permeated new trading enterprises from which the Navajos also benefited.
Few changes have been made to the present well-preserved post and house, which replaced a smaller structure about 1900, and a barn and utility building. The appearance of these structures, built mainly of native stone, differs little from other trading posts on the reservation. However, the house interior, with furnishings from the late 1800s, collections of old Indian crafts, old firearms, paintings, photographs, books, and large numbers of Navajo rugs, reflects the personality and Interests of the man and his time.
Commerce; Native American; Exploration/settlement; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Arizona was the last contiguous state to join the Union: Arizona became the 48th state in the US on February 14, 1912. It was the last of the contiguous states to be admitted to the Union.
About Apache County
Apache County Timeline
Apache County, located in northeastern Arizona, has a rich and colorful history that spans thousands of years. The area was historically home to various Native American tribes, including the Navajo, Apache, Zuni, and Hopi peoples. These tribes thrived in the region, adapting to the challenging desert environment and establishing trading networks with nearby tribes.
European exploration of Apache County began in the 16th century when Spanish conquistadors, such as Francisco Vázquez de Coronado, ventured into the area in search of gold and other resources. However, it was not until the 19th century that significant European settlement took place. In 1846, during the Mexican-American War, the United States acquired present-day Arizona, including Apache County, from Mexico.
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Apache County experienced a significant influx of settlers attracted by mining, ranching, and railroad construction. The discovery of mineral deposits, including copper, uranium, and coal, played a crucial role in the county's development. The towns of St. Johns, Springerville, and Holbrook, among others, emerged as important centers of economic activity, supporting the growth of the mining and ranching industries.
Apache County also played a significant role in the history of the Wild West. The area was part of the historic Butterfield Overland Mail Route, which facilitated communication and transportation between the East and West coasts. Notorious figures such as Billy the Kid and the legendary Apache warrior Geronimo also left their mark on the county's history, engaging in conflicts and battles that shaped the region's development.
Today, Apache County continues to embrace its diverse heritage, with a vibrant Native American culture coexisting alongside more recent settlers. The county's history is preserved and celebrated through museums, cultural events, and historical landmarks, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of its past.
European exploration of Apache County began in the 16th century when Spanish conquistadors, such as Francisco Vázquez de Coronado, ventured into the area in search of gold and other resources. However, it was not until the 19th century that significant European settlement took place. In 1846, during the Mexican-American War, the United States acquired present-day Arizona, including Apache County, from Mexico.
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Apache County experienced a significant influx of settlers attracted by mining, ranching, and railroad construction. The discovery of mineral deposits, including copper, uranium, and coal, played a crucial role in the county's development. The towns of St. Johns, Springerville, and Holbrook, among others, emerged as important centers of economic activity, supporting the growth of the mining and ranching industries.
Apache County also played a significant role in the history of the Wild West. The area was part of the historic Butterfield Overland Mail Route, which facilitated communication and transportation between the East and West coasts. Notorious figures such as Billy the Kid and the legendary Apache warrior Geronimo also left their mark on the county's history, engaging in conflicts and battles that shaped the region's development.
Today, Apache County continues to embrace its diverse heritage, with a vibrant Native American culture coexisting alongside more recent settlers. The county's history is preserved and celebrated through museums, cultural events, and historical landmarks, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of its past.
Apache County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Apache County, Arizona.
- 1879 - Apache County is established on February 24, 1879, as one of the original four counties of the Arizona Territory.
- 1880 - The county seat is designated as St. Johns, which becomes the oldest continuously inhabited community in Arizona.
- 1881 - The town of Holbrook is founded and quickly becomes a hub for the region's livestock industry.
- 1882 - The Atlantic and Pacific Railroad completes a line through Winslow, bringing increased transportation and economic opportunities to the area.
- 1889 - The famous Pleasant Valley War, a deadly feud between cattlemen, reaches its peak in Apache County.
- 1931 - The iconic Petrified Forest National Monument is established within the county's boundaries, preserving unique geological formations and fossilized trees.
- 1964 - The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is established, providing recreational opportunities and protecting important wildlife habitats.
- 1986 - Apache County experiences a major economic boom when the Navajo Generating Station, a coal-fired power plant, begins operations.
- 2005 - The Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park is established, featuring scenic attractions such as the spectacular Antelope Canyon.