Hubbell Trading Post
John Lorenzo Hubbell was the foremost Navajo trader of his time.
The squeaky wooden floor greets you as you enter into the oldest operating trading post on the Navajo Nation.
The squeaky wooden floor greets you as you enter into the oldest operating trading post on the Navajo Nation. When your eyes adjust to the dim light in the "bullpen" you find you’ve just entered a mercantile. Hubbell's has been serving Ganado selling groceries, grain, hardware, horse tack, coffee and Native American Art since 1878.
John Lorenzo Hubbell founded the trading post ten years after Navajos were allowed to return to their homeland from exile at Bosque Redondo, Ft. Sumner, New Mexico. During the four years spent at Bosque Redondo, Navajos were introduced to many new items. Traders like Hubbell supplied those items once they returned home.
Hubbell had an enduring influence on Navajo rug weaving and silversmithing by consistently demanding and promoting excellence in craftsmanship. He built a trading empire that included stage and freight lines as well as several trading posts. At various times, he and his two sons, owned 24 trading posts, a wholesale house in Winslow and other business and ranch properties. Beyond question, he was the foremost Navajo trader of his time.