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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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.
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WING WONG FOOK, having been duly sworn, testifies as follows, Dir. Examination by MR Moresby. Q W. F. Wong he goes by sometime- that is his business name where do you-live ? A 19 Cormorant Street Q 19 Cormorant Street, is that where you live ?
A Not long.
Q What do you do ? A I cannot speak English. Q We will try you; you live 19 Cormorant Street? A Yes Q What business ? A Tailor. MR. TAYLOR: We cannot finish today? COURT: You suggested sitting until half past one.MR TAYLOR: I meant half past twelve, and it is ten minutes to one now. How long will you be with this witness, Mr. Moresby ? MR MORESBY: About as long as the other one. MR TAYLOR: If my learned friend is going to be half an hour with this witness it will make it quite late-- how many more have you got Chinese witnesses ? COURT: There were four here yesterday. MR. TAYLOR: Does your Honor want to sit this evening ? COURT: I don't want to, but I will if necessary. MR. TAYLOR: I must say that my sympathies are entirely with the Court; my personal feelings in the matter too BC Archives GR-0419 BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. Box 100 File 1904/10 Attorney General documents.