Indian Wells was first settled in the 1800’s. The Indian Wells Trading Post, the Bitahochee Store, and hospital were built in the early 1900’s. The trading post and store provided hardware, textile, groceries, and postal services. They also served as gathering places for relatives and friends to visit and socialize, receive news about events elsewhere, and occasionally take part in games. During that time, wagons and horses served as the main means of transportation until the late 1960's. The local traders encouraged local residents to weave rugs and make silver and turquoise jewelry for barter or trade. With the increased availability of off-reservation stores that catered to Native Americans, reliance on the Indian Wells Trading Post diminished forcing it to close in the mid-1970’s. The Bitahochee Store remained in operation and, with modern gas pumps, served as a "stop over" for motorist traveling the paved road between Holbrook and to other locations on the Navajo Nation and Hopi Reservation. The store gradually closed during the latter part of the 1980's.
The Indian Wells Chapter conducts monthly meetings to keep residents informed of chapter matters as well as provide a forum for chapter members to express issues and concerns to their elected Chapter Officials and Navajo Nation Council Delegate. During these chapter meetings, chapter members have an opportunity to decide on matters and issues affecting their chapter.
*****UPCOMING MEETINGS*****
- Planning Meeting: 1st Sunday of the Month at 1:00 pm
-
Chapter Meeting: 3rd Sunday of the Month at 1:00 pm
"Servicing the Governmental Needs of the Indian Wells
Chapter Residents."
Navajo Nation Government Link - -> http://www.navajo.org/
|
|
Hopi Buttes
Photo taken by: Louis J. Maher
Indian Wells Chapter Officials and Staff:
Laverne Yazzie Benally
President
Hank Haskie
Vice President
Alberto Pesklakai
Secretary/Treasurer
Nellie R. Hayes
Community Services Coordinator
Carmelita R. Mike
Office Specialist
Dottie Wilson
Grazing Official
Lee Jack, Sr.
Council Delegate
Kathy Nelson
Community Health Representative
|
|
