1913/130 Rex vs. Ing Soo – attempted murder
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*Please note that archival source materials are original historical documents that have not been censored, reviewed or otherwise altered by the Royal BC Museum.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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AH TUCK, Sworn :
On Thursday I heard the fight I was in the store. My stuff had just come from Cranbrook. I was putting it in the window. I heard the fight and went in to see, but children came to buy candy and I went into the store. I came back, the fight all over and white man came out of the front door. I heard Spencer telling Ing Soo come out, come out, he ran around the back. Two minutes afterwards I heard the window broke. I go and look at it and see the big stone there under the cook stove. I never saw Ing Soo.
The above evidence is taken in the presence and hearing of the accused.
(Sgd) Arthur B. Fenwick, J.P.
(Sgd) R.L.T. Galbraith, J.P.
(Sgd) Ah Tuck.
BC Archives GR-0419 Box 175 File 1913/130 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. / Attorney General documents.