Richardson Trading Post, Located In New Mexico On Route 66, Is Older Than The Highway Itself
By Monica Spencer|Published February 07, 2020
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
It’s no secret that if you’re looking for the ultimate way to become acquainted with any city or town, stroll down its main street. Here, you’ll almost always find the perfect combination of history, visual treats, and quirky tidbits. In Gallup, Historic Highway 66 (more commonly known as Route 66) has served as the city’s main drag for decades.
Situated along the old Route 66 in Gallup, the Richardson Trading Company is older than the highway itself.
Part trading post, part pawn shop, and part tourist haunt, this shop is a memorable piece of Americana that every New Mexican should visit at least once.
Located right outside the building is a mural and centennial plaque dating the company's origins to 1913.
This could very well be how it obtained such a huge inventory. It serves as a quick method of obtaining a cash loan, something useful for the rural communities surrounding Gallup. Richardson's location along Route 66 made it even more enticing to visitors since it was a convenient and popular location.
On any given day, you're bound to find a unique, handcrafted goodie in the store's showcases.
