Rio Cabana, Concord Hotel, Catskills, 1950s

Celebrated Cuban artist Wiley Padan, who worked for many Hollywood studios, created this lovely charcoal drawing for the cover of the drinks menu at this one time jewel of the Catskills. The Concord Hotel was a famous holiday resort in the 40s,'50s and '60s run by Russian immigrant Arthur Winarick and his family. A two hour drive from New York City, the resort was set amid 2,000 acres of grounds and had 1250 guest rooms and a 3,000-seat restaurant that was entirely kosher. There were 40 tennis courts – more than Wimbledon, the hotel boasted – and three golf courses including one called The Monster. Some 1,100 lounge chairs were set around the outdoor swimming pool. The Concord had a reputation for top entertainment. Famous comedians and crooners of the era played there and guests danced to the music of big bands in the cavernous nightclub called Rio Cabana that had dance instructors on hand to show them the steps. As air travel became more affordable, resorts like the Concord fell out of favor and the hotel was sold in a bankruptcy foreclosure in 1999. This lovely menu cover is from its 1950s hey-day. Courtesy Private Collection. Gallery quality Giclée print on natural white, matte, 100% cotton rag, acid and lignin free archival paper using Epson archival inks. Custom printed with border for matting and framing. All printed in USA. Each print is accompanied by a copy of the interior menu