Native WAY S KJZZ and KBAQ listeners share their suggestions for experiencing Native American culture. Compiled by David M. Brown I am happy to recommend the auctions presented by R.B. BURNHAM & CO. at various places throughout the year (including the Hubbell Trading Post in Ganado, the Smoki Museum in Prescott and Pueblo Grande Museum in Phoenix). Both Bruce Burnham and Hank Blair are knowledgeable Indian traders from multi-generation trading families, and their auctions are enjoyable, educational and a wonderful opportunity to find quality rugs, baskets and jewelry at fair prices. I have been attending these auctions since 1999 and have enjoyed them immensely, learned a great deal and acquired a sizable collection of Navajo rugs. — Janet Wise
R.B. Burnham & Co. Trading Post, U.S. Route 191, Sanders; 928-688-2777; rbburnhamtrading.com/auctions In Northern Arizona, take the time to see the ancient Navajo dwellings and steep-walled canyons at Canyon de Chelly. Enjoy either a half- or full-day tour along the canyon’s floor in heavy-duty, open-air touring vehicles driven by Navajo guides. Before or after your tour, dine on Native American dishes at the THUNDERBIRD LODGE, where the tours begin. — Margery Ellison
Thunderbird Lodge, Box 548, Chinle; 800-679-2473; tbirdlodge.com We’ve been to many Indian historic sites in our years in Arizona, such as Casa Grande, Montezuma Well and Castle, etc. One of our favorites, which is not so famous, is WALNUT CANYON. Following the walking trail through beautiful
forest and investigating signs of an early civilization was very interesting—and good exercise. — Bill and Eileen Wells
Heard Museum North, 32633 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480-488-9817; heard.org
Walnut Canyon National Monument, Interstate 40 to exit 204, Flagstaff; 928-526-3367; nps.gov/waca
I go to DRUMBEAT INDIAN ARTS, just across from the Phoenix Indian Medical Center. It’s so authentic that I feel intimidated. Every time I go, I see new merchandise from many tribes. My son introduced me to it when a medicine man helped him to get off drugs in high school. He goes there now to purchase CDs of Native American music. I go to purchase jewelry, and my husband purchases “bear root,” one of the many healing plants carried at the store. — Margaret Daggett
I recommend the HEARD MUSEUM NORTH, which is conveniently located for those who live in the Northeast Valley and do not want to drive to the downtown Phoenix museum. The museum recently moved from el Pedregal to a new and larger building at the Summit at Scottsdale. I also strongly recommend having lunch at Arcadia Farms North Café, which shares the same building and provides both indoor and outdoor dining. — Mike DeAngelis
Drumbeat Indian Arts, 4143 N. 16th St., Phoenix; 602-266-4823; drumbeatindianarts.com
Winter 2009 51