The Wasp — 1878 — page 137: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a masthead/publication page rather than a political cartoon. The ornate logo features allegorical figures flanking a central shield bearing "The Illustrated Wasp," published Saturdays at 602 California Street, San Francisco. The editorial content addresses corruption in San Francisco's municipal government, criticizing the Board of Supervisors for wasteful spending. The text condemns specific abuses: officials using city funds for personal horses and buggies, fraudulent contractors, and general mismanagement. Additional articles discuss religious hypocrisy among those claiming moral authority while engaging in dishonest practices, and debate citizenship obligations regarding immigrant voting rights (appearing to reference Irish and German voters). The overall tone is reformist, attacking institutional corruption and ethical failures among civic and religious leaders.