The Wasp — 1879 — page 707: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* illustrates railroad disasters through two engravings. The top panel shows "Tunnel No. 7 on the S.P.C.R.A." (likely the Southern Pacific Coast Railroad or similar), depicting a tunnel collapse with railway tracks and workers in danger. The bottom panel shows a steam locomotive near a ravine surrounded by tall trees, with what appears to be a derailment or crash scene. The page title emphasizes the sensational nature of these accidents. This reflects *The Wasp*'s tendency toward satirical commentary on contemporary disasters and industrial dangers during the railroad expansion era. The detailed, dramatic illustrations were designed to grab readers' attention while commenting on the risks inherent in rapid railroad development.