Welcome to the Tuba City Trading Post, a historic cornerstone of commerce and culture nestled in Tuba City, Arizona. Established in 1870, this trading post has been a vital hub for the Navajo, Hopi, and other Native American tribes in the region. Its establishment is a testament to the era when trading posts dotted the American Southwest, serving as essential gathering places for trade and social interaction.
Tuba City itself has a rich history. The name honors Chief Tuuvi, a Hopi leader who embraced the Mormon faith and invited settlers to the area. The town’s Navajo name, Tó Naneesdizí, meaning “tangled waters,” reflects the abundant springs that once attracted numerous Native American tribes to the region.
Throughout its history, the Tuba City Trading Post has played a significant role in the exchange of goods and cultures. It has been a place where handcrafted Navajo jewelry, pottery, rugs, sand paintings, and Kachina dolls are traded, each piece reflecting the artistic heritage and craftsmanship of its creators.
The trading post has seen its fair share of historical events. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was a bustling center of commerce. In the 1950s, Tuba City became part of the uranium mining boom, which brought new challenges and changes to the community.
Notable figures who have been associated with Tuba City include Chief Tuuvi and the Navajo Code Talkers, whose legacy is commemorated at the nearby Navajo Code Talkers Museum. These brave individuals played a crucial role during World War II, using their native language to create an unbreakable code that was vital to the Allied victory.
Today, the Tuba City Trading Post continues to thrive as a symbol of cultural preservation and the enduring spirit of the Navajo Nation. It stands as a reminder of the complex history and vibrant cultures that have shaped the American Southwest.
As you explore this historic site, listen to the stories of the past echo through its walls. From its roots as a trading hub to its present-day role in preserving Native American art and culture, the Tuba City Trading Post remains an essential link to the region’s rich history.
