1893/39 Loo Yet (false pretences, mentions Chinese miners on Protection Island)
As part of the Chinese Historical Wrongs Legacy Initiative, the BC Archives has digitized a selection of documents related to criminal prosecutions against the Chinese community from 1866 to 1914, found in GR-0419. These are mainly records created as part of the preliminary hearing held before a judge in order to determine whether there was sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. There are often lengthy witness statements, and cross examinations by both prosecution and defense lawyers. The eventual verdict is sometimes recorded on the outside of the docket. They offer a fascinating glimpse into 19th and early 20th century criminal activity around the province, and ways in which the Chinese community was stereotyped. The records offered for transcription here are a small selection; for additional digitized material from GR-0419 click here.
*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum. Some materials may contain content that is racist, sexist or otherwise offensive. In addition, GR-0419 records deal with subjects such as assault, murder and abuse, which may upset some readers. The Royal BC Museum is only the custodian of archival materials; the content does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Royal BC Museum.
*All transcriptions are provided by volunteers, and the accuracy of the transcriptions is not guaranteed. Please be sure to verify the information by viewing the image record, or visiting the BC Archives in person.
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2/ same rate of wages – We had handed in to the said Company a pay list showing those days and amounts payable to these men – The wages could only be drawn by presentation of the tickets that I gave – all that was on the tickets was as I have stated – the name “Protection Island Shaft” Date – and the numbers of the Chinamen and “Please pay No 2” so as it might – Chinaman his pay – and signed “Bray and Richards” The Prisoner was No 2 – and I positively identify him as the Chinaman to whom I gave same tickets. besides his own on that Pay day – as I believe the tickets of No 1 and No 6 Chinaman. Signed N.M. Bray The above deposition being interpreted to the Prisoner by Ma Sing and Prisoner being asked if he has any questions. Says “Billy” (meaning Mr. Bray) gave me tickets – No. 1 and No. 6 – No 1 all the same Joe Ham. No 6 all the same Chang Jou No 5 (being Ma On) him dead I paid Man On – No 5 promised to lend the money to me – The prisoner says he has no questions to ask but wants to say something more to the Bench. Signed by Ma Ling Interpreter