The Wasp — 1878 — page 242: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains two decorative mastheads/emblems (labeled "ACTOR" and "DRAMATIC CRITIC") but the main content is theatre and entertainment commentary rather than political satire. The text discusses upcoming theatrical productions, including Rice's Extravaganza at the Grand Opera House and performances of "Our Boys" and "One Hundred Years Old." There's commentary on the Zoological Gardens attraction in San Francisco. A significant section titled "A Domestic Tax" satirizes proposed taxation schemes—including taxes on unmarried women, wives, husbands, children, and sons. This appears to mock absurd revenue-raising proposals circulating in Washington political circles at the time. The page also includes a humorous note about Oakland residents potentially entering overflowed lands, suggesting skepticism about such civic schemes.