The Wasp — 1895 — page 32: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page satirizes San Francisco municipal politics through the metaphor of a beer barrel labeled "Steam Beer Politics." The main article attacks local officials for their corrupt patronage system—particularly Sheriff Whelan and Street Superintendent Thomas—who use government positions as rewards for political allies rather than merit-based appointments. The text mocks their manipulation of city departments (Street, Police, Fire) and control of lucrative contracts. It criticizes the "Reform Democratic" faction as equally complicit in this spoils system, arguing that public offices should serve citizens, not political machines. The accompanying cartoon of a figure atop a beer barrel visually reinforces the drunken, chaotic nature of local governance built on patronage rather than competence or principle.