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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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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That is what he was looking for before. If he understands the plan as relating to the story shown there I should think it is all right. MR TAYLOR: I think we are bound by his previous answer. MR MORESBY: (To witness) Do you understand the plan  ? WITNESS Yes, I understand. MR TAYLOR: (Laughing) He does not understand English. WITNESS: (Indicating on plan) Quann's room here, here table, and that is the bed. Q Speak. louder. A Quann's room here and the table, and this is the bed sir, and this is the box. MR. TAYLOR: I would call to mind that he is now answering his council without the aid of an interpreter. Q Go ahead, MR . TAYLOR: (Interrupting) When he finds it necessary to be understood. WITNESS: Two wen down there (indicating) two stand there— Q Two men stand there ? A Two men stand outside the door. Q Which two men  ? A Wong On and Wong Gow. Q Now, which is Gow A That is Gow (pointing to accused). Q Gow is the second man; where were they standing, where you see them? A See them stand here (indicating on plan). Q That is at the door leading into ^Quann's BC Archives GR-0419 BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. Box 100 File 1904/10 Attorney General documents.

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