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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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Police Court Victoria BC 18th February 1904 2:00 PM Pursuant to adjournment the Court met at 2:00 PM, all parties being present as before. WONG WING FOOK. WITNESS, still under oath testifies as follows: MR MORESBY:; he has already sworn that his business is that of a merchant taylor. Mr Moresby continuing examination: Q Do you remember Friday night on the 29th of January last , don`t you understand me COURT: Before you go on, tell him he is still under oath (Interpreter interprets same to witness) Q Do you remember Friday night on the 29th of January last. A Yes. ( A. by interpreter) Q Where were you that night. A On the third story Fooks actor`s room. Q Where abouts is this third story of Fook actor`s room. A On Cormorant Street between Cormorant and Fisgard. Q In what building A Chinese theatre Chinese Hall. Q What time was he there. A he went there about half past eleven on Friday night, and he stayed there until next morning until about four. Q Now while he was there , what happened. Did anything happen A Yes he saw he heard a row there. MR TAYLOR : Ask the witness to speak a little louder.