Judge — November 22, 1919 — page 12: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is a humorous illustration titled "The Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot at Yapp's Crossing," drawn by Johnny Gruelle for *Judge* magazine (dated 11-22-19, so November 1919). The cartoon depicts a chaotic small-town scene centered on a turkey shoot—a popular competitive sport where participants shoot at targets, with turkeys as prizes. The image shows: - Various storefronts labeled with period businesses (bakery, fish market, groceries) - Numerous townspeople engaged in shooting activities and celebrations - Children playing with toy guns and vehicles - A festive, somewhat anarchic atmosphere The satire appears to mock small-town American life and holiday traditions, portraying the turkey shoot as a communal event that draws the entire village into competitive, gun-focused revelry. The chaotic composition and numerous simultaneous activities suggest gentle mockery of rural American customs and the earnestness of holiday celebrations in provincial communities.