Transcription Page

1904-10 Rex vs. Wong On and Wong Gow – murder (at the Chinese theatre)

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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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. 

BC Archives G-0419

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Rex vs Wong On & Wong Gow

Hearing of the above taken at the Police Court, City of Victoria, B.C., this 11th day of February, 1904, 2:30 p.m. before His Honor Magistrate Hall, under the Information and Complaint of John M. Langley, Esq., of Victoria, B.C., Chief of Police, dated the 2nd day of February, 1904, wherein he states he has just cause to suspect and believe and does suspect and believe that Wong On and Wong Gow, of the said City of Victoria aforesaid did willfully murder one Man Quann.

W. J. Taylor, Esq. , K. C. , appearing as Counsel for the Defence.

Messrs Geo. E. Powell, W. C. Moresby and G. F. Cane, appearing as Counsel for the prosecution.

Mrs. K. Blygh was duly sworn as Acting Official Stenographer.

Yip Wing was duly sworn as Interpreter.

Mr. Powell asks leave to amend the Information by changing the name of On Gow to Wong Gow and the name of Man Quong to Man Quann

AH fat was duly called on behalf of the prosecution

BC Archives GR-0419 Box 100 File 1904/10 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.

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