Gentile Clientele only

the early to mid-20th century, many establishment in the US wanted to ensure that they received the right type of people (in their eyes) and advertised that to others so that people would know that at their establishment, there were only the "right" kind of people.

The term "Gentile Clientele" was used to show what kind of people they allow. The term "Gentile" generally refers to someone who is not Jewish. In this context, the requirement for a "Gentile Clientele" suggests that the establishment restricted its guests to non-Jewish individuals. Gentile Clientele” essentially meant that certain businesses, such as hotels, resorts, and clubs, explicitly catered to non-Jewish (Gentile) customers while excluding Jewish patrons. These establishments would refuse service or accommodations to Jewish individuals based on their religious identity. Florida, particularly Miami Beach, was one of the areas where “Gentile Clientele” policies were prevalent. In 1953, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) conducted a survey that revealed that 57% of 500 Florida hotels discriminated against Jewish guests.

Legal changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, made it illegal to discriminate based on race, religion, or ethnicity. As awareness grew and public opinion shifted, the practice of “Gentile Clientele” gradually declined.

Here are some examples:

Sagamore Rest Cabins, Cape Cod, Massachusetts