This is a clipping from Harper’s Weekly dated March 10, 1866. The black and white image is entitled “Caught Napping.” It depicts a schoolmaster about to strike a student sleeping in class, while other students look on. Corporal punishment was common in both private and public U.S. schools during the 19th century and beyond. It was thought to be necessary to promote discipline and avoid rowdiness in boys, while girls were not subject to it.
Harper’s Weekly was published by Harper & Brothers in New York City from 1857 until 1916. It featured news, fiction, essays on many subjects, and humor, along with illustrations.