1884/16 Ah Keong, attempted murder, big scrap in Victoria’s Chinatown
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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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street. This was shortly before the row took place. I remained there until the row took place. The prisoner who has just been discharged told me and officer Hough that there was a row down Fisgard street , during this time the prisoner Gay Wah never came out of the house, he could not come out without my seeing him, I went down Fisgard St and saw the prosecutor there he was dressed in light coat and dark pants, I asked him what was the matter he said someone hit him, he was bleeding, I asked who hit him he said he could not tell, there were too many Chinamen there. I had a warrant for him and arrested him. I asked him two or three times on the way to the gaol if there was not even one he could recognize too many men he said no. To Mr. Davie I know Gay Wah Shue in the mines he was missing I don't know what he does here. I often see him on the street, I know where he lives now. I think he has been away for some time. I saw him for a few days before the occurrence and spoke to him. I saw him I think on Cormorant street. I know him by sight only and never had any conversation with him, he lives in On Hing's house, I have only been told he lives there, I have heard he has got one China woman. I am not sure whether I knew him in Cariboo or Cassiar
BC Archives GR-0419 Box 26 File 1884/16 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.