Judge — May 6, 1882 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a political cartoon from Judge magazine showing Uncle Sam as a stage manager at the Columbia Theatre, confronted by several men holding large barrels labeled with names of theatrical actors and performers (including "Whitelaw Reid," "Star Route," and others). The men appear to be demanding or claiming something from Uncle Sam. The cartoon satirizes theatrical politics or patronage—likely depicting actors or performers attempting to claim roles, positions, or compensation from the government (represented by Uncle Sam). The "First of May" reference suggests this relates to traditional hiring/employment changes on that date. The barrels appear to represent accumulated demands or claims. The specific actors named are unclear without additional historical context, but the satire targets the scramble for government favor or theatrical appointments during this period.