United States Supreme Court Cases & Opinions

U.S. Supreme Court

Blow v. North Carolina, 379 U.S. 684 (1965)

Blow v. North Carolina

No. 387

Decided February 1, 1965

379 U.S. 684

Syllabus

Negroes denied entry to a restaurant serving whites only were arrested after refusing to leave the property. They were convicted of violating a North Carolina statute making it a crime to enter upon the lands of another without a license after being forbidden to do so, and their convictions were affirmed by the State Supreme Court. The restaurant and the adjoining motel, which are under the same management, are on an interstate highway, and are extensively advertised.

Held: Since the restaurant serves or offers to serve interstate travelers, it is a "place of public accommodation" within § 201 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and these convictions, although for conduct prior to the enactment thereof, are abated by passage of that Act. Hamm v. City of Rock Hill, ante, p. 379 U. S. 306, followed. Pp. 379 U. S. 685-686.

Certiorari granted; 261 N.C. 463, 135 S.E.2d 14; 261 N.C. 467, 135 S.E.2d 17, judgments vacated, and cause remanded.