Inside American Express’ first merchant directory, you’ll find listings for grand hotels and cozy inns, steakhouses and diners. Merchant directories truly had it all. The printed guides launched in 1958 and continued into the 1970s, so browsing one today is like unearthing a time capsule — just ask Ira, our resident archivist. Listen to him talk about these pocket-sized guides and their impact on American Express, then take a deeper dive with him here: https://go.amex/x6KLGx | American Express

From greater visibility to business support, there’s more to unlock by becoming an Amex Merchant Member. Find out more today. | American Express