1914-215 Rex vs. Gin Yuen alias John Young – procuring, Vancouver
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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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43 Q Did he always charge you five dollars? A Yes
Q How many times were you there? A About three or four times.
Q And accused always took you? A Yes
Questions by Mr. Read:
6 Q How long have you known him, how many years have you known Jim Young? A Over a year.
7 Q Where did you first meet him? A It is so long I forget.
Q Who are you working for last? A I am not working now.
Q Who were you working for last? A At a restaurant near a drugstore, close to the C.P.R. Hotel on Georgia Street.
Q Where were you in the kitchen? A Yes
Mr. Grant: That is the case Your Worship.
Court: Warning read.
Mr. Read: I reserve my defence.
Court: I commit the accused for trial at the next Court of Competent Criminal Jurisdiction.
BC Archives GR-0419 Box 194 File 1914/211 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.