The Wasp — 1896 — page 693: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is **not a cartoon or satire**. It's a historical photograph and caption documenting "A Modern Market Street Improvement." The image shows the O'Brien Building, a multi-story commercial structure with ornate Victorian architecture featuring arched windows on multiple levels and ground-floor storefronts. The caption identifies it as property of Hon. James V. Coleman, named after his uncle Mr. W. S. O'Brien, described as "one of the original partners in the great Bonanza firm." The "Bonanza" reference likely indicates involvement in Nevada silver mining wealth. This appears to be a **progress/real estate feature** rather than satirical content—documenting urban development and the architecture associated with San Francisco's wealthy merchant class during the late 19th century. The Wasp may have included such images alongside satirical material.