[2][4] Charles was born August 1, 1842 in Conquest, Cayuga County, New York to Joseph Barrel and Emily Carey.

On 2 August 1862, Barrell enlisted at Leighton, Allegan County, Michigan into Company C of the 102d U.S.

Colored Troops as a flag holder for the Grand Army of the Republic.

[2] Barrel died in Ann Arbor, Michigan and is buried at Hooker Cemetery, Wayland, MI.

[1] Hazardous service in marching through the enemy's country to bring relief to his command.