History of Navajo County, Arizona
Introduction to Navajo County
Navajo County, located in northeastern Arizona, is a region rich in Native American history and cultural heritage. Established in 1895, the county’s unique landscape includes parts of the Painted Desert, Petrified Forest, and the Navajo and Hopi Indian Reservations. The county’s economy has historically revolved around ranching, railroads, and tourism, particularly due to its proximity to famous natural landmarks. With its diverse population and deep-rooted history, Navajo County plays a crucial role in both Arizona’s past and present. Its communities blend Native traditions with modern American life, offering a unique cultural tapestry.
County Facts
- Founded: March 21, 1895
- Population: Approximately 107,658 (2020 Census)
- Area: 9,960 square miles (25,800 km²)
- Area Code: 928
- ZIP Codes: 85901–85942
- County Seat: Holbrook
- Major Cities: Holbrook, Show Low, Winslow, Snowflake, Pinetop-Lakeside
- Famous Landmarks: Petrified Forest National Park, Painted Desert, Monument Valley, Hubbell Trading Post, Navajo Nation Reservation, Hopi Indian Reservation
Early History of Navajo County
Pre-Colonial Era (Pre-1500)
Navajo County has been home to indigenous cultures for thousands of years. The most notable early inhabitants were the Ancestral Puebloans, who lived in the area from 900 AD to 1300 AD. These people built intricate cliff dwellings, left behind rock art, and cultivated crops in the high desert. The Hopi people, descendants of these early civilizations, continue to live in the region today, maintaining ancient cultural practices and traditions.
The Navajo, who migrated to the area around the 15th century, also established themselves as a dominant presence in the region. They developed a rich culture based on sheep herding, weaving, and their close connection to the land. Both the Hopi and Navajo have contributed significantly to the cultural identity of the region that would later become Navajo County.
Spanish Exploration (1500s-1700s)
Spanish explorers, including Francisco Vásquez de Coronado in the mid-1500s, passed through what is now Navajo County during their search for gold and new territory. However, the Spanish influence in the region was minimal due to its remote location and the resistance of local Native American tribes. Jesuit and Franciscan missionaries attempted to establish missions among the Hopi and Navajo people, but they had little lasting success. By the 18th century, the area remained largely under the control of the Native tribes, with only occasional contact with Spanish settlers.
Mexican and American Territorial Periods (1821–1912)
Mexican Independence and American Settlement (1821–1848)
After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, the region became part of the Mexican state of Alta California. However, Mexican settlement in the area was sparse due to the challenging landscape and the presence of powerful Native American tribes, including the Navajo and Hopi. The region’s isolation kept it largely free from outside influence until the arrival of American settlers in the mid-1800s.
Following the Mexican-American War (1846–1848), the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ceded much of the Southwest, including Navajo County, to the United States. This opened the door for American settlement, though conflicts with the Navajo and Apache tribes made the area difficult to settle.
Gadsden Purchase and the Arrival of Railroads (1853-1880s)
The Gadsden Purchase of 1853 solidified American control over southern Arizona, bringing further exploration and settlement into northern Arizona, including present-day Navajo County. The region’s economy began to grow with the expansion of railroads in the 1880s, particularly with the construction of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad through northern Arizona. Railroads facilitated the movement of goods and people, helping to develop the remote areas of Navajo County.
With the arrival of the railroads, towns like Holbrook and Winslow began to develop as transportation hubs. The railroad also brought more settlers and businesses to the region, marking the beginning of significant economic development in Navajo County.
Establishment of Navajo County (1895)
On March 21, 1895, Navajo County was officially established from portions of Apache County. The county was named after the Navajo Nation, a significant portion of which lies within its boundaries. Holbrook was selected as the county seat, due to its strategic location along the railroad and its growing importance as a regional center for commerce and law enforcement. The creation of Navajo County was driven by the need to better manage the rapidly growing population and economy spurred by the railroads and ranching industries.
Economic and Cultural Development (1900s-1950s)
Ranching and Agriculture (1900s-1930s)
In the early 20th century, ranching became one of the primary economic activities in Navajo County. The vast stretches of open land were ideal for cattle and sheep ranching, which provided a livelihood for many settlers. The county also saw the development of small-scale agriculture, particularly in towns like Snowflake and Taylor, where Mormon settlers had established thriving agricultural communities.
Despite the success of ranching, the remote and arid nature of the land made large-scale agriculture difficult, and much of the region remained sparsely populated.
Navajo Nation and Hopi Reservation (1900s-Present)
The Navajo Nation Reservation, established by the U.S. government in 1868, occupies a significant portion of northern Navajo County. The Hopi Reservation, surrounded by the Navajo Nation, also lies within the county’s borders. Both the Navajo and Hopi people have had a profound influence on the cultural and economic landscape of the region. Traditional crafts like weaving, jewelry making, and pottery have become important industries for both tribes, attracting tourists and collectors from around the world.
The relationship between the federal government and the Native tribes has often been strained, with conflicts over land, water rights, and governance. However, the 20th century saw the gradual improvement of infrastructure, health care, and education within the reservations, thanks in part to the efforts of tribal governments.
The Great Depression and Route 66 (1930s)
The Great Depression of the 1930s hit Navajo County hard, as it did much of rural America. Ranchers and farmers struggled to survive, and many families were forced to leave the area in search of work. However, the construction of Route 66 through Winslow and Holbrook provided a new economic lifeline for the region.
Route 66, which connected Chicago to Los Angeles, brought travelers through Navajo County, leading to the growth of hotels, restaurants, and service stations along the highway. The route became known as the “Main Street of America” and played a key role in the county’s recovery from the Depression.
Post-War Growth and Modern Development (1950s-Present)
Tourism and Economic Diversification (1950s-1970s)
The post-World War II era saw significant growth in tourism in Navajo County, largely due to the county’s proximity to several national parks and scenic areas. Petrified Forest National Park, established in 1962, became a major attraction, drawing visitors to see the ancient fossilized trees and colorful landscapes of the Painted Desert. Monument Valley, located on the Navajo Nation, also became famous as a backdrop for Hollywood westerns, further boosting tourism.
The county’s economy began to diversify, with the growth of service industries catering to tourists, as well as the continued importance of ranching and small-scale mining. The construction of highways and improvements in infrastructure helped connect the region to larger markets and cities, allowing for more sustained economic growth.
Environmental Conservation and Native American Rights (1980s-Present)
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Navajo County saw increased efforts to conserve its natural landscapes and protect its cultural heritage. Environmental protection initiatives were launched to preserve areas like the Painted Desert and the Petrified Forest, ensuring that future generations could enjoy the region’s unique geological and natural wonders.
At the same time, the Navajo and Hopi tribes continued to assert their rights to self-governance and land. Legal battles over water rights and land disputes between the two tribes marked much of the 20th century, but recent years have seen increased cooperation and dialogue.
Key Landmarks and Attractions in Navajo County
Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park is one of the most famous landmarks in Navajo County. Established in 1962, the park is home to an ancient forest of petrified wood, as well as stunning views of the Painted Desert. The park attracts thousands of visitors each year and is known for its unique blend of natural history and beauty.
Monument Valley
Monument Valley, located on the Navajo Nation Reservation, is one of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest. Known for its towering red sandstone buttes and mesas, the valley has been featured in countless films, making it a symbol of the American West. Visitors to Monument Valley can explore the area with the help of local Navajo guides, learning about both the geological and cultural significance of the region.
Hubbell Trading Post
Established in 1876, Hubbell Trading Post is the oldest continuously operating trading post in the Navajo Nation. Located near Ganado, it offers visitors a glimpse into the history of trade between Native Americans and settlers in the region. The trading post is now a National Historic Site and continues to sell traditional Navajo crafts, such as rugs and jewelry.
