Posted in New Mexico
September 25, 2017
Get Lost In The Past At These 5 New Mexico Old Fashioned Trading Posts
Trading posts have been around longer than the State of New Mexico. Today, amid the touristy roadside attractions, some old-fashioned trading posts still exist. Though they have updated (a bit) with the times, these shops still sell traditional native goods, some even still taking items in trade. Offering a little of everything, authentic trading posts are well worth browsing. You can find work from emerging and established native artists, and treasures from the past.
Ellis Tanner, a fourth-generation trader, calls his shop a "modern-day old fashioned" trading post. It's a mix of trading company, jewelry store, pawn shop, and check cashing service. Look for local, handcrafted items amid books, buckles, saddles, and gadgets. Find them at 1980 Highway 602, in Gallup.
The name of this business isn't just a gimmick. They claim to be the oldest trading post in the U.S., dating back to 1603 when they operated out of a tent. Today they sell gifts, Native American arts and crafts, women's clothing and Native American jewelry. They are in Santa Fe at 201 West San Francisco Street. Look for the ox cart on the roof.
Perry Null started in the native jewelry business in 1970. Since then, his trading company has grown to include blankets, baskets, fetishes, pottery and a lot more. This authentic trading post offers handmade Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni arts & crafts. Be sure to browse and look for art by recognized artists. Find Perry Null Trading Company at 1710 South 2nd Street, in Gallup.
Richardson's is another old-school trading post. Find everything from kachina dolls and headdresses to Navajo wool rugs, buckskins, and pottery from several tribes and pueblos. Also a long-standing pawn shop, this is a good place to pick up decades-old treasures. Find Richardson's Trading at 222 W 66th Avenue, in Gallup.
The Toadlena Trading Post is a combination grocery store, bank, post office and cultural center. This is also the place for Navajo rugs by the noted Two Grey Hills weavers. These distinctive textiles with black, gray, cream, and brown designs are created from un-dyed, homespun, native wool. The Toadlena Trading Post is located about an hour north of Gallup, on Highway 491.
As well as the trading posts above, be sure to read the amazing story of The Charming New Mexico Trading Post That Has Been Around For Decades.
Anyone a trading post fan? Which ones are your favorites?
