Burnham's Trading Post Basics:

R. B. Burham Trading Post is located right off I-40, about 40 miles west of Gallup, NM. Take exit 339 (U.S. 191 South) and look for Burnham's in a simple building on the left side of the road about 3/4 mile south of I-40. Map

Address: Highway 191, PO Box 337, Sanders, AZ 86512
Phone: (928) 688-2777
Website

What You Will Find at Burham's:

We were returning from a volunteer project on the Navajo Reservation at Sanders.

Those that know better than I suggested a stop at Burnham's, a traditional trading post that has been run by the Burnham's for five generations. You will see a traditional trading post with lanterns, simple foodstuffs, yarn for weaving and, in the back room, much more.

Treasures in the Back Room:

Those that don't know what to expect will stop in the trading post and pick up a loaf of bread or a beverage and leave. But those that are on the hunt for a prize Navajo rug or some beautiful Zuni jewelry will head past the beautiful wool yarn to the back room. That is where you will find the real treasures.

History:

The Burham's have been encouraging Navajo weaving and textiles for generations. They carry specialty yarn used for Navajo style weaving. They also have a selection of beautiful Native American jewelry, Zuni fetish carvings, glorious show-quality rugs and much more. The Burnham's participate in auctions such as the Friends of Hubbell Trading Post benefits.

Hours:

Open 8 AM-6 PM Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday and holidays

Liz's Recommendation:

Burnham's is one of those places that represents the traditions of the wild west. Find local Navajo families shopping for canned peaches and bread, weavers purchasing specialty yarns and rug collectors heading for the back room to see the latest Mae Clark contemporary Navajo weavings. I highly recommend that you stop in when you are traveling I-40. Most traditional trading posts are much farther off the beaten path.