DryHeatBlog Uncovering the History of Twin Arrows Trading Post
The Twin Arrows Trading Post, located along Route 66 near Flagstaff, Arizona, stands as an aging monument to the golden age of automotive travel. It was originally built in the 1940s by Chester and Agnes Lewis as a trading post and gas station to cater to travelers on the Mother Road. The iconic twin arrows standing tall at the entrance of the trading post became its defining feature, attracting visitors from near and far.
The Twin Arrows Trading Post was originally called the Canyon Padre Trading Post, named for a nearby gorge. At that time it was only the diner and the store. Business was slow for the trading post until the owners, inspired by the neighboring stop at Two Guns, changed the name to Twin Arrows Trading Post and added the service station. Another feature added at this time, and arguably the most important, was the addition of two arrows standing 25 feet tall at the west end of the property. The arrows are easily visible from the highway and certainly would’ve sparked the curiosity of travelers on The Mother Road. Unfortunately in early 2022 one of the arrows broke off at the base. It laid where it fell for about a year but, as of March 9, 2024, it had vanished altogether.
Over the years, the trading post witnessed the ebb and flow of travelers along Route 66. It served as a hub for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of goods and services. The Lewis family managed the trading post with dedication, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all who stopped by. However, as the popularity of Route 66 declined with the construction of interstate highways, the Twin Arrows Trading Post faced a decline as well. It was closed and abandoned in 1995.
The Rise and Fall of a Once Thriving Stop
At its peak, the Twin Arrows Trading Post was a bustling stop along Route 66. Travelers would stop to refuel their vehicles, grab a bite to eat, and browse through the unique offerings of the trading post. The Lewis family built a successful business, catering to the needs and interests of the travelers.
However, as the interstate highways gained prominence, Route 66 started losing its charm. The once thriving trading post saw a decline in visitors and eventually had to shut its doors. I-40 is generally blamed for the death of all things on historic Route 66 but, in this case, it may not be a fair accusation. The Twin Arrows Trading Post has it’s very own exit on I-40 so maybe the real problems were internal. Today, the abandoned ruins of the Twin Arrows Trading Post stand as a reminder of a bygone era, collecting graffiti and slowly returning to the Earth.
Exploring the Abandoned Ruins of the Twin Arrows Trading Post
Curious looky-loos wanting to venture inside the ruins of the Twin Arrows Trading Post are advised to proceed with caution. As there is evidence of nefarious activity, do not come here alone. Additionally, the inside is riddled with all kinds of hazards. Floorboards are loose, sagging or missing altogether. Exposed nails are sticking up all over the place and the ceiling could pretty much collapse at any moment. Aside from all that, there is no guarantee that there isn’t someone sleeping in one of those rooms. Remember, you were warned.
The structure pictured above is a Valentine Diner. Once popular on Route 66, the Valentine Diner was basically a portable building that was outfitted to be a small restaurant or “lunch room”. They cost around $5000 and were ordered from a catalog and delivered via the mail.
There are several little outbuildings around back that are not visible from the road.
Exploring the various sections of the ruins, you can see remnants of the diner, gas station, the trading area, and even the living quarters of the Lewis family. It’s almost it’s own little village.
Only one of the iconic twin arrows still stands, a lone sentinel in the land of the lost.
Legends and Ghost Stories Surrounding The Twin Arrows Trading Post
The abandoned Twin Arrows Trading Post has its fair share of legends and ghost stories. Some say that the spirits of the Lewis family still linger around the ruins, protecting their former home. I didn’t see any ghosts, but the place is definitely creepy. It’s dark, it stinks of mildew and the atmosphere is heavy. Arguably, the Lewis family ghosts could use some extra muscle when it comes to the security on the property.
Preserving the Legacy of a Bygone Era
Preserving the legacy of the Twin Arrows Trading Post is important to ensure that future generations can learn about the history and significance of Route 66. Efforts are being made to restore and maintain the remaining structures of the trading post, allowing visitors to experience a glimpse of what life was like during its heyday.
Various organizations and individuals are working together to raise awareness and funds for the preservation of the Twin Arrows Trading Post. Through their efforts, they hope to keep the memory of this iconic stop alive and pay tribute to the Lewis family’s contribution to the history of Route 66.
San Fransisco Peaks
About half a mile down the road from the abandoned Twin Arrows Trading Post is not abandoned Twin Arrows Travel Stop and Casino. They’re not very interesting but there is a stunning view of the San Fransisco Peaks from the parking lot of the travel stop.
These photos were shot on March 9, 2024
