Born in 1853, John Lorenzo Hubbell was raised in New Mexico Territory and took his first job as a clerk in the Albuquerque Post Office. His second job at a Mormon trading post in Utah guided Hubbell toward a life-long trading post business. Moving to Arizona at age 24, Hubbell purchased two trading posts. The second in Ganado Valley became his home for the next 50 years. His arrival at the Ganado trading post coincided with the Navajo's return to their homeland.
   Following a scorched earth policy, Colonel Kit Carson and his troops burned the Navajo’s crops, killed their livestock and rounded up as many of the Navajo when possible. As the Navajo surrendered, between 1864 and 1868, they were forced to march over 300 miles to Fort Sumner on the Pecos River. During the Long Walk, thousands died on the way to Bosque Redondo. As word spread to the east about the horrid conditions at the camp, General Sherman came to the fort to investigate. Following three days of talks, the Treaty of 1868 allowed the Navajo to return to their homeland. One bright spot in their return was the Hubbell Trading Post and the well respected J.L. Hubbell. The trading post benefitted both Hubbell and the Navajo. Using the barter system, Hubbell traded cookware and food supplies for Navajo Churro sheep, baskets, Ganado style woolen rugs and blankets.
   Today, visitors are welcome to explore the 150 year old trading post and its grounds. Its creaking old floorboards tell of its age and the dimly lit store recalls its prominence within the Navajo Nation. The site also promotes the arts and crafts from neighboring tribes. Seen as a bridge between two cultures, the Hubbell Trading Posts continues to exhibit examples of Navajo culture, traditions and fine craftsmanship.

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