Sign, "Sh-h-h Please Do Not Disturb," 1935-1945

01

Artifact Overview

Like today, proprietors of mid-20th century hotels, motels and inns provided "Do Not Disturb" signs for weary travelers who wanted a restful stay. Guests placed the sign outside on their door to alert staff to please be quiet and not enter the room. This sign even included instructions that guests could use to stop unwanted telegrams or telephone calls.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Sign (Declaratory or advertising artifact)

Date Made

1935-1945

Location

By Request in the Benson Ford Research Center

Object ID

2014.4.331

Credit

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

Material

Cardboard
String (Fiber product)

Color

Tan (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 5 in.
Width: 5.75 in.

Inscriptions

Front of sign: Sh-h-h / PLEASE DO NOT DISTURB / If you wish undisturbed rest of privacy, please hang this / notice on the outside knob of your room door. Please note, / however, that telegrams WILL be delivered during this period, / unless you request otherwise. Notify telephone attendant / if you with TELEPHONE service temporarily suspended. / BLACKHAWK HOTELS COMPANY
Sign, "Sh-h-h Please Do Not Disturb," 1935-1945