Part of Our Route 66 Everytown Collection – Sanders Edition
Crafted from ultra-soft 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, this unisex jersey tee blends all-day comfort with the adventurous spirit of the Mother Road. Featuring the bold slogan "We Discovered the Grand Canyon," it celebrates Sanders, Arizona: a quiet but historically significant Route 66 community tied to the early European exploration of one of America's greatest natural wonders.
Perfect for Mother Road explorers, Grand Canyon enthusiasts, or collectors of our Route 66 Everytown Collection, this tee honors Sanders' unique connection to history and the open road.
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About Sanders, Arizona: Gateway to Exploration
Located along the historic 1926-1985 alignment of Route 66 in Apache County, Sanders sits about 30 miles west of Gallup, NM, and just east of the Petrified Forest National Park. Named for early settler C.W. Sanders, this unincorporated community began as a modest railroad and ranching settlement before transitioning into a service point for Route 66 travelers. During the Mother Road's peak years, Sanders offered fuel, food, and trading posts that connected visitors to the surrounding Navajo Nation and its vibrant culture.
Sanders' slogan, "We Discovered the Grand Canyon," pays homage to the 1540 expedition of Spanish explorer García López de Cárdenas, who, guided by Hopi people, became one of the first Europeans to lay eyes on the Grand Canyon. The routes leading to this historic sighting passed through the general region near Sanders, linking the community to one of the most iconic moments in Southwestern exploration.
Though smaller and quieter today, Sanders maintains the rich traditions of the Navajo Nation through its local trading posts. These outposts allow visitors to purchase authentic handcrafted items, including handwoven rugs, silver & turquoise jewelry, and pottery, ensuring the town's past as a bustling cultural and commercial meeting point endures.
Its proximity to the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert makes Sanders an ideal rest stop for Route 66 travelers looking to explore Arizona's natural wonders. The community participates in Route 66 celebrations supported by the Arizona Route 66 Association, ensuring its place in the highway's ongoing story.
For those who take the time to explore its history, Sanders offers a profound reminder that Route 66 is defined not merely by the miles traveled, but by the enduring continuous journey through history.
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
