Jack Rabbit Trading Post facts for kids

The exterior of the Jack Rabbit Trading Post

The Jack Rabbit Trading Post is a fun convenience store and gift shop. It's located on the famous old U.S. Route 66 in Arizona. You can find it about five miles west of Joseph City, Arizona, right off Exit 269 on Interstate 40. It's a popular stop for travelers exploring the historic highway.

A Famous Stop on Route 66

The Jack Rabbit Trading Post first opened its doors in 1949. It was built on the site of either an old Santa Fe Railroad building or a former snake farm. The trading post became very well known for its unique advertisements.

The "Here It Is" Billboards

The owners put up many billboards stretching all the way from Missouri to Arizona. Each sign showed the outline of a jackrabbit. Below the rabbit, it would tell you how many miles were left until you reached the trading post. When you finally arrived, a big sign in front of the store proudly declared, "HERE IT IS!"

This clever advertising idea was a team effort. The original owner, James Taylor, worked with Wayne Troutner. Wayne owned another store called For Men Only in Winslow, Arizona.

Photo Opportunities and Movie Fame

Today, a giant fiberglass jackrabbit stands in front of the store. Visitors love to climb on it and take fun pictures. This makes the Jack Rabbit Trading Post a major attraction on Route 66.

The trading post even appeared in the 2006 animated movie, Cars. In the film, the "HERE IT IS" sign shows a Model T car instead of a jackrabbit. The character Lizzie, a 1923 Ford, runs the store in the movie. The movie's creators even thanked Antonio and Cindy Jaquez. They have owned the real trading post since 1995.

Another place on Route 66 in Staunton, Illinois, called Henry's Rabbit Ranch, uses a similar sign. Their slogan is "HARE IT IS."

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