Judge — July 8, 1916 — page 3: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Columbus Circle, New York This cartoon depicts Columbus Circle in Manhattan with its iconic tall building (the former Hotel Imperial), the Columbus Monument, and early 1900s automobiles. The dialogue between two characters—Anne and Billy—centers on the monument erected to Christopher Columbus, the explorer credited with discovering New York (and America). The humor is gentle and educational rather than biting satire. Billy corrects Anne's ignorance about the monument's purpose, explaining it commemorates Columbus's discovery of New York. Anne's surprised response ("Oh, yes!") suggests she didn't know who the monument honored. This reflects Judge magazine's sometimes didactic approach—using humor to inform readers about civic landmarks and historical figures rather than delivering sharp political critique.