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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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

BC Archives G-0419

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34: MR. TAYLOR: This witness seems to understand everything in English— do you speak English ? Witness: Very little bit MR. TAYLOR: I take objection to him being examined in Chinese. MR MORESBY: He can only speak a few words of English, but we can try him. COURT: Just see if he can answer. MR POWELL: He understands a little bit. MR. TAYLOR: It is very convenient for to not understand at times. MR. POWELL: He can talk a certain amount, but as for getting an exact description I know he cannot do it in English. COURT: Just try it a little. Q (to witness) Fat, Saturday night you said he was there Si Quong and everybody else— what happened after that, after you all in the room ? MR. TAYLOR : You don't have to lead him; he is a bright clever chap. MR. POWELL: My friend is playing for delay. Q What took place after that  ? A I don't know what you mean ? MR, TAYLOR: How beautifully said. MR POWELL: We have never talked to him in our consultations with him in English. If my learned friend wants me to go on with him I will try him---- COURT: It is quite evident that lots of them understand a little English, but not enough to know what you say. MR. TAYLOR: He may not have caught the

BC Archives GR-0419 BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. Box 100 File 1904/10 Attorney General documents.

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