Transcription Page

1882/17 Ah Ton, assault, on CPR railroad construction crew

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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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

Current Page Transcription [edit] [history]

4th November 1882

Augustus Carroll being duly sworn states as follows

On the 26th of October AD 1882 about 5:50 PM I returned to the ballast pit at eight mile hill with the train when I saw the Chinese employed there make a break for their camp. I saw the foreman Mr. Cole stop them he said something to them in their own language which I did not understand. They all came back to their work except one man that hid himself under one of the cars. I called to foreman attention to the fact. When the Chinaman under car made a rush for me with an uplifted shovel as he attempted to strike I took hold of the shovel & wrenched it from him, as I did so I slipped & fell to my knee, before I could recover myself the prisoner Ah Low rushed at me and struck me across the left arm

BC Archives GR-0419 Box 24 File 1882/17 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.

Current Page Discussion [edit] [history]

Image 5 of 8