Sign, "Do Not Disturb," 1938-1950

01

Artifact Overview

Most weary travelers want peace and quiet when staying at a hotel, motel or inn. In the mid-20th century -- just like today -- proprietors provided guests with a "Do Not Disturb" sign to help make their stay pleasant and restful. Hanging the sign outside on the door alerted staff not to enter. Some signs were simple. Others, like this one, added a humorous image that reinforced the guest's wishes.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Sign (Declaratory or advertising artifact)

Date Made

1938-1950

Location

By Request in the Benson Ford Research Center

Object ID

2014.4.321

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of John Margolies.

Material

Cardboard
String (Fiber product)

Color

Tan (Color)
Black (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 5.25 in.
Width: 4 in.

Inscriptions

Front of sign: PLEASE GO 'WAY / AND LET ME SLEEP ... / DO NOT / DISTURB
Sign, "Do Not Disturb," 1938-1950