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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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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MR POWELL My friend in trying to mislead the Court. The question was put by Wing if he affirmed and did not tell the truth what would happen to him under those circumstances ? COURT: No, not affirm, but burning the paper. MR POWELL: It only reopens the whole thing. My friend cannot get away from this ruling, and I would ask that we proceed. COURT: If, Mr Taylor, my course is wrong it will be all the better for you In the Upper court. MR TAYLOR: You have micus curio — it would be the duty of this man to take an oath which would be binding on him, and I would call your Honor's attention to the fact that the witness has said he has some form of belief and there is a certain obligation connected with it---- COURT: He has not said that Mr Taylor. He has stated that if he does not tell the truth the Joss spirit will punish him, and an ordinary Christian would say that if he took an oath on the Bible and did not tell the truth he would be punished hereafter, and from what this witness has said here I come to the conclusion that is the form he believes in, and under which he should be sworn—- MR POWELL: (Interrupting) I understand that we are going to proceed on your Honor's ruling ? COURT: Yes. He will take the affirmation. (To Wing interpreter): You interpret these words"I solemnly affirm that the evidence to be given by me shall be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth-" It may be just as well, although I am not called upon to do so, for the Interpreter to inform BC Archives GR-0419 BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. Box 100 File 1904/10 Attorney General documents.

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