Judge — May 31, 1884 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Judge Magazine, May 31, 1884 This cartoon titled "Shoemaker, Stick to Your Last" depicts **Mother Columbia** (the female personification of America) rescuing a small child from water. The caption suggests she's intervening in some crisis. The satire likely criticizes someone—possibly a politician or public figure—for overstepping their proper role or expertise. The proverb "shoemaker, stick to your last" means stay within your professional competence. The image suggests that despite bungling or incompetence, Mother Columbia (government/national stability) ultimately saves the day. Without more specific historical context from 1884, the exact target remains unclear, but the message appears to be about misplaced authority requiring correction by proper institutions.