History of the Cameron Trading Post
was erected over the Little Colorado River in 1911 creating the first easy
access over the gorge. Soon after, two brothers, Hubert and C.D. Richardson
established Cameron Trading Post, visited at that time only by the Navajo
& Hopi locals to barter their wool, blankets, & live-stock for dry
goods.
A trip to the post to trade could take days of travel by horse-drawn wagon.
Guests were always treated as family, fed & housed by the trading post
during their stay. As traders, the brothers were more than merchants. Understanding
local dialects & customs, they were trusted by the local Native American
people in matters concerning confusing new American legal & social systems.
Over time as roads improved & interest in the area grew, The Cameron Trading
Post ’s convenience to the Grand Canyon & other intriguing areas
made it popular for other travelers as well. Cameron’s philosophy of
hospitality accommodated these changes while maintaining its role in the local
community.
Today
the Cameron Trading Post is owned by the people who work it; many of whom
have had their roots in the area for generations. The president of the company
is himself descended from the original founders, maintaining the philosophy
of hospitality and respect evident in the operation of Cameron Trading Post
today.
