Postal History
Hotel Kolner Hof
Frankfurt's Hotel Kolner Hof proudly advertised that it was "Judenfrei."
As Frankfurt was earning the nickname “New Jerusalem” for its Jewish population, the Kolner Hof hotel was having none of it. This hotel's anti-Jewish propaganda and proud "Judenfrei" advertising made it emblematic of the growing exclusion of Jewish clientele from the hospitality industry.
Important Moments
Early 1930
Hotels, restaurants, and businesses across Germany begin adopting informal and then explicit anti-Jewish policies, refusing service to Jewish customers.
1935–1938
With the Nuremberg Laws and related policies, private discrimination is reinforced by law, further legitimizing exclusion in hospitality and travel.
Mid-1930s
Establishments like Hotel Kölner Hof openly promote themselves as “Judenfrei” (free of Jews), using postcards, signage, and stamps to signal exclusion.
1938-on
Anti-Jewish messaging becomes a marketing tool, reflecting how deeply anti-Judaism had permeated everyday commerce and social norms.
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