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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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that answer. Now I am simply saying as far as that goes I will be bound by it, and I will take this affirmation. MR MORESBY: The question has not been put to him yet as to what would happen if he does not tell the truth. MR POWELLL: I understand that there was an objection taken and there was a ruling on it and why open the matter again—- COURT: I think I will have to stand by my ruling, MR TAYLOR: Did he give an answer yet to the question as to what would happen him ? INTERPRETER: No, he has not given an answer. (question put to witness). If we write the name on the paper and burn it, he say if he does not tell truth he would be punished by a Spirit, he means the Joss. MR. TAYLOR: He would be punished by a Spirit of the Joss? A Now, does your Honor hold that he can take an affirmation. You have now got from the witness some form that would be binding on him and that brings out a distinction, The Canada Evidence Act only applies to a Christian who has a conscientious objection to taking an oath and yet believes in a future state of punishment which this man does not believe in. MR POWELL: He has said nothing about the oath, just about telling the truth. MR TAYLOR: In the face of that statement I merely wish to point out it would be a very good position for the Defence, to allow him to affirm BC Archives GR-0419 BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. Box 100 File 1904/10 Attorney General documents.