1901/15 Rex vs. Wong Sing et al., murder
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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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Chew Duck upon oath says:
I live at Cache Creek. I keep store there. I know Lee Hung. We lived in a cabin back of my store and was in and out of my store often. he worked for Doc English sometimes by the day sometimes by contract on Doc English's farm. I saw him last on 28th January (English) in my store. I then went back to my ranch. On the 1st of February I came back to my store. Lee Hung was not there when I came back. I have not seen him since. he left some blankets, some clothes, half a sack of rice and some provisions. he left everything in his room. I don't know where Lee Hung is now. I didn't see him. I don't know where he went.
Q. Is he in China? A. I don't know where he went.
Q. Do you know if he is in China or not? A. I don't know where he went. I don't know whether he is in China or not.
"Chew Duck"
Signed by the said Chew Duck after first having been read over to him and interpreted and who seemed to understand same and signed his name thereto. "J. Lehman" J. P.
Charlioe Eoo Fook, Interpreter.
BC Archives GR-0419 Box 87 File 1901/15 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.