Judge — August 11, 1883 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Judge magazine cartoon satirizes what appears to be a prominent figure's management of Yellowstone Park Ranch, depicted as a judicial proceeding ("JUDGE" header). The central figure wearing a large chef's hat labeled "RULE THE ROOST" gestures dramatically, suggesting authority or control. Multiple caricatured men surround him—some labeled with what appear to be political positions or roles ("SHERIDAN" visible on one figure). The scene includes signs referencing "Yellowstone Park" and mentions of "Presidents," "Generals," and "Senators/Monopolists." The satire likely critiques how a particular individual controlled or exploited Yellowstone resources, treating distinguished visitors and government officials as subordinates. The theatrical staging and exaggerated features suggest mockery of that person's pretensions to authority over what should be public or national property. Without clearer labels, specific identities remain unclear, though the subject appears to be a wealthy businessman or politician with controversial Yellowstone Park involvement.