1897/6 Regina vs. Song Mun – attempted rape (New Westminster)
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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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.
Current Page Transcription [edit] [history]
he pulled my drawers off; I told him I would not consent to go with him; in about six minutes my husband Lee Sing came back; the room Song Mun and I were in was a bedroom off the kitchen; when Lee Sing came in Song Mun put his knife away.
(sgd) Martha Lee Sing.
(sgd) W. Y. Young, Interpreter
(sgd) T.C. Atkinson P.M.
THOMAS LEE SING, upon his oath saith as follows :---
My name is Thomas Lee Sing; I remember the 15th of February last; I keep a store on Agnes street; I have a house near the Chinese Mission; on the 17th February I went to my house about 8 o'clock; I saw my wife, the last witness, and Song Mun in a room by the kitchen.
(sgd) Thomas Lee Sing.
T.C. Atkinson, P. M.
Statement of the Accused
"I have nothing to say."
Note: Marriage Certificate, 12th Dec., 1895, of Thomas Lee Sing and Martha Wong, Exhibit "A."
For Recognizance of Bail, see original depositions.
BC Archives GR-0419 Box 68 File 1897/6 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.