Ethnology
Ethnographic materials in the collection include objects that are original to the site and also some reproductions of historic rugs. The reproductions were done by weavers working for Southwest Parks and Monuments Association. For example, some of the rugs that were on the floors of the Hubbell home have been reproduced. The originals are in storage. Additional reproductions for use as furnishings are needed. The ethnographic collection at Hubbell Trading Post is probably the finest in the NPS. Establishing this site as an ethnological forum and acquiring comparative artifacts is appropriate.
The Navajo rug was one of the most important elements in the operation at the trading post, and J.L. Hubbell was one of those most instrumental in the evolution of the Navajo rug. In an effort to establish the entire story of the evolution of the modern Navajo rug, contemporary rugs donated to the historic site will be accepted.