They served many purposes, which is why they were used on many places, including shops. The double-swing doors are easy to open from either side, even with your hands full (one reason you still see them on restaurants, today, particularly between the kitchen and the main room). They let in some cooler air, and helped air out a smoky barroom (back when they didn’t have A/C or even electric fans). They offered a bit of a barrier, yet let people know the place was open and they were welcome to come in and grab a drink or buy supplies. All good reasons they were so popular.
They served many purposes, which is why they were used on many places, including shops. The double-swing doors are easy to open from either side, even with your hands full (one reason you still see them on restaurants, today, particularly between the kitchen and the main room). They let in some cooler air, and helped air out a smoky barroom (back when they didn’t have A/C or even electric fans). They offered a bit of a barrier, yet let people know the place was open and they were welcome to come in and grab a drink or buy supplies. All good reasons they were so popular.
Double-swinging doors are still used in restaurants today – they can be used with your hands full.
Saloon doors did exist. The design allowed ventilation and cross-breezes (before AC) to keep the inside cool and air out smoke or other smells. It also allowed people to hear and see the place was open, much like how modern shop doors are made with glass.
If you Google “saloon door history” you shoild find some good articles
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