Hotel "Do Not Disturb" Sign, 1955-1965

01

Artifact Overview

"Do Not Disturb" signs are standard in hotel rooms today, but they were an innovative new idea in the 1950s and 1960s, when this sign was produced. This sign is reminiscent of the increasing competition between hotels, motels, and motor hotels during that era, and the resulting attention to guest needs.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Placard (Information artifact)

Date Made

1955-1965

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2011.84.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Paper (Fiber product)
Cord (Fiber product)

Technique

Printing (Process)

Color

Ivory (Color)
Black (Color)
Reddish orange

Dimensions

Height: 5.25 in
Width: 4 in
Height: 9.125 in (total length (height) including cord)

Inscriptions

Printed on both sides: NOTICE: GUESTS WHO DO NOT WISH TO BE DISTURBED, / HANG THIS CARD ON OUTSIDE DOOR KNOB. / PLEASE GO 'WAY / AND LET ME SLEEP . . . / DO NOT DISTURB / (illustration of man sleeping) / JOHN WILLY, INC., EVANSTON, ILL., FORM 21