Our Story

Established

The Chee family (Chee meaning “red” in Navajo) established Chee’s Indian Store on old Route 66 in 1948.  Eva Chee, built a outdoor covered stand to display Navajo woven rugs and jewelry.

In 1970 with the construction of Interstate 40, and the original store now under the west bound lane of I-40.  Chee’s relocated to its current location at exit 351. The Chee family built a permanent building selling local products as well as a Rock Shop.

Today, Chee’s Indian Store is still family owned and operated and is continuing to provide authentic products to the public while supporting local artisans.

Navajo Nation

Chee’s Indian Store is located on I-40, 7 miles across the Arizona/ New Mexico border on the Navajo Reservation. The Navajo Reservation is the largest Native American reservation in the United States.

The Navajo Nation gained sovereignty in 1868. The Reservation is a self-governed nation with a President and 24 delegates representing the 110 Chapters,and a population of 300,048, as of July 2011.  If you want to hear the Native language tune into the reservation local radio stations that devote programs all in the Navajo.

Family

Chee’s Indian Store has been Navajo owned an operated for four generations and is committed to preserving authentic Navajo art.

With four generations of experience Chee’s Indian Store has cultivated relationships with local artists and provides direct access to Navajo and Zuni arts and crafts.