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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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.
Current Page Transcription [edit] [history]
MR MORESBY: I do not really suppose we can finish today.
MR TAYLOR : My learned friend has not told me his witnesses or the number. MR MORESBY: I think I gave Mr, Taylor all the names of our witnesses. MR TAYLOR: What I suggest now is this, that we adjourn now-- it is Saturday afternoon, and it is a little inconvenient for all of us, speaking seriously, and the Court particularly too, to sit either this afternoon or evening, and this, afternoon I cannot sit until four o'clock, as I have an important appointment. His Honor understood me this morning to say that we would sit until half past one, whereas I meant until half past -twelve, and I would suggest that we either adjourn until Monday or some other time, and the Chinese they object to coming on Monday, and Thursday would be the best day. and as far as any idea of loosing this witness is concerned I do not think there is anything likely to happen, as he looks a healthy customer, COURT The Court then will adjourn until Thursday the 18th. MR TAYLOR My interpreter has just stated that the prisoners should be entitled to any extra little tid-bits, it being their Chinese New Year---- COURT: I have nothing to say about that,and as far as that goes you can arrange that with the Chief of police. (Court here adjournes till Thursday, 19th February, 1904. I hereby certify the foregoing; to be a BC Archives GR-0419 Box 100 File 1904/10 BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. Attorney General documents.