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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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the witness that the law provides that now that he has taken that affirmation that his legal obligations and persecution for perjury is exactly the same as he had sworn. (Same Interpreter by Yip Wingr to witness, who acknowledges his responsibility). Let us hear what his name Wing is. INTERPRETER: SUI QUAN. DIRECT EXAMINATION BY MR MORESBY: (through Interpreter) Q Where do you live ? A At Chinese Theatre. Q What does he do ? A He is one of the ticket men, sells the ticket. Q Does he sell tickets there now ? A No , he does not sell tickets now, Q, Where was he on the 29th January, Friday night? A He was at Mann Quann's room. MR MORESBY: Dr Robertson is here now. so I would suggest that we take his evidence and let this witness stand. MT TAYLOR: I don't object to Dr Robertson's evidence being taken now if the Doctor is in a hurry- Dr Robertson No , I will wait. Q (continuing) About what time was he there ? A He was in his room about a quarter to two. Q What happened ? A Quan say to Nam Yuen You telling a lie on him outside. He mean he telling a lie on him outside.MR. TAYLOR: I object to this also. Q Who was this Nam Yuen ? A He is a banjo player. Q Where was he playing the banjo ? A At the Chinese Theatre. Q Now, who was in the room when Nam Yuen that to man Quann? Several people BC Archives GR-0419 Box 100 File 1904/10 BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. Attorney General documents.