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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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31:
Q Now, he tells us that Wong On came in and had this conversation; was Nam Quann in the room at that time?
Mr. Taylor: I object to that question. A No, he was in the hall.
Q He said he saw him in the hall? A He was in the hall.
Q Well, how far from the door was he? A 4 feet from the door.
Q He saw him - did he see him there when Wong On was talking to Quann? A Yes; he also say that Nam Yuen he curse too.
Q What did Quann say to all of this? A When the cursing was on?
Q He says Nam Yuen was cursing too; what did Quann say? A No, he say Man Quann asked Nam Yuen to go out there and see who is right, and he said you don't need to be asked, and he kept on cursing.
Q At Quann? A Yes.
Q Well, what took place after that? A After that, then the people advised him not to curse any more so they put him out the door and shut the door, on Nam Yuen.
Q What people advised him not to curse? A I don't know.
Q Ask him? A Lee Sum.
Q Well, after that what took place? A He say shortly after, a few minutes and he returned.
Q Who returned? A He say he did not see; but he heard the voice of Wong On, he come back and knock at the door.
BC Archives GR-0419 Box 100 File 1904/10 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.