What is a trading post in history?

A trading post, trading station, or trading house, also known as a factory, was an establishment or settlement where goods and services could be traded. Typically the location of the trading post would allow people from one geographic area to trade in goods produced in another area.

Do trading posts still exist?

Most trading posts may not look, feel or operate the way they once did, but they remain a significant presence in the area, even in an age when more and more business is done online.

What was the first trading post?

The first trading-post was established at the mouth of Clear Creek, Colorado in 1832, by Louis Vasquez, and named Fort Vasquez, after its proprietor, but never grew into much importance and was soon abandoned. Fort Laramie, Wyoming painting by Alfred Jacob Miller.

What was the purpose of a trading post?

a store established in an unsettled or thinly settled region by a trader or trading company to obtain furs and local products in exchange for supplies, clothing, other goods, or for cash.

Where were trading posts usually located?

This building material was more commonly used on the Southern and Central Plains, reflecting the greater Hispanic influence in these regions. Examples of adobe trading posts include Fort John (later Laramie) in Wyoming, Fort John in Nebraska, and Bent’s Fort in Colorado.

Who established trading posts?

Under the leadership of Samuel de Champlain, the French established trading posts at Acadia in 1604–05 and Quebec in 1608. In 1609, English sailor Henry Hudson, employed by the Dutch East India Company, claimed the Hudson River valley for the Dutch.

Which nation built permanent trading posts?

Navajos
In 1868, with the establishment of the Navajo Reservation, the U.S. government issued licenses to formerly itinerant traders. Permanent trading posts were established. Navajos brought commodities such as wool, sheep, piñon nuts and produce to barter for groceries, tools, cloth and other items.

Are trading posts Native owned?

For more than a century, trading posts were integral parts of Native American life in the Southwest. These posts were stores, owned mostly by Anglos, where Native Americans exchanged woven rugs, jewelry, baskets, wool and nuts for food and other necessities. Trading posts also served as banks and bustling social hubs.

Who built trading post empire?

First built by Portuguese mariners. Instead of to control territory, Trading Post Empires were meant to control trade routes by forcing merchant vessels to pay duties at fortified trading sites. By mid 16th century Portuguese merchants had over 50 trading posts between West Africa and East Asia.

Do trading posts still exist in New Mexico?

Trading posts have been around longer than the State of New Mexico. Today, amid the touristy roadside attractions, some old-fashioned trading posts still exist. Though they have updated (a bit) with the times, these shops still sell traditional native goods, some even still taking items in trade.

Where is the Indian trading post in Albuquerque NM?

Maisel’s Indian Trading Post is located at 510 Central Ave. SW in Albuquerque, NM right near the intersection of Historic US 66 and 5th St. NW. It is open Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm.

What is El Potrero trading post?

El Potrero Trading Post (aka The Vigil Store) is a family-owned business located in the beautiful valley of Chimayo, New Mexico, next to the world famous El Santuario de Chimayo. El Santuario is renowned for the mysterious healing powers of its sacred dirt and a crucifix of the Christ of Esquipulas.

Why were Navajo trading posts important to Native Americans?

These trading posts, bursting with authentic goods, are vital to Native American commerce and financial viability. During the old trading days in Gallup, New Mexico, Navajo families might travel for several hours and spend a day or two in town.