The Wasp — 1877 — page 21: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily text-based editorial content rather than a cartoon. The main article, "Evils to Be Guarded Against," discusses moral hazards facing young women in San Francisco, particularly at public dance halls and similar venues where liquor is served and "loose women" congregate. The article argues these establishments corrupt youth through vice and indecency. A follow-up piece, "Morals in Salt Lake," compares San Francisco unfavorably to Salt Lake City regarding moral degradation, claiming San Francisco has worse problems with prostitution and moral decline despite its status as a major city. The satire appears directed at San Francisco's failure to address urban vice compared to other American cities.