Part of Our Route 66 Everytown Collection – Joseph City 'Mormon' Edition
Crafted from ultra-soft 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, this unisex jersey tee blends timeless comfort with the pioneering spirit of the Mother Road. Featuring the proud slogan "Oldest Mormon Settlement in AZ," it celebrates Joseph City, Arizona: a community founded in 1876 by Mormon pioneers whose legacy still shapes the town today.
Perfect for history lovers, Route 66 travelers, or collectors of our exclusive Route 66 Everytown Collection, this tee honors Joseph City's enduring role in Arizona's cultural and highway heritage.
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About Joseph City, Arizona: Pioneers, prophets, and the Mother Road
Joseph City is a historic town in Navajo County, situated along the iconic 1926–1985 alignment of Route 66, just 10 miles west of Holbrook. Established in 1876 by Mormon pioneers led by William C. Allen, it holds the distinction of being the oldest Mormon settlement in Arizona.
The town was named in honor of Joseph Smith, the founding prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), reflecting the community's foundation as a devout colony built along the challenging Little Colorado River.
Joseph City is home to one of the Mother Road's most iconic and legendary roadside stops: the Jack Rabbit Trading Post. Established in 1949, the trading post quickly gained fame for its whimsical jackrabbit theme and an aggressive, multi-state advertising campaign. Bright yellow billboards featuring a bold red jackrabbit and the simple promise "Here It Is" teased travelers all the way from as far east as Springfield, MO.
The tradition of posing on the giant fiberglass jackrabbit outside the shop remains a cherished rite of passage for Route 66 adventurers. Today, the trading post is still in operation, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and continues to sell souvenirs and a healthy dose of nostalgia.
Joseph City's history successfully bridges two distinct American legacies: its religious foundation as a resilient LDS settlement and its place as a classic, playful roadside destination on Route 66. Though small in size, the town's pioneer story, defined by perseverance through harsh weather and isolation, is preserved through nearby cultural centers like the Navajo County Historical Museum in Holbrook.
Modern visitors can experience both sides: learning about the town's historic settlers and enjoying the spirited, mid-century highway travel embodied by the Jack Rabbit Trading Post. Joseph City proves that even the smallest towns on the Mother Road have significance and can leave a lasting impression.
Product Features:
- 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton for premium softness
- Side seams for added structure and durability
- Tear-away label for comfort
- Classic crew neckline with a flattering unisex fit - true-to-size for all day comfort (see size chart for details)
- Fulfilled in the USA
Care Instructions:
- Machine wash: cold (max 90°F / 30°C)
- Tumble dry: low heat
- Non-chlorine bleach as needed
- Iron or steam: medium heat
- Do not dry clean
