The Reynell family had been settled in Devon for centuries and were mainly associated with East Ogwell, although the first two Baronets also had strong links with Ireland.

The elder Reynell was involved with the Canadian Campaign under command of Lt-Col John Anstruther.

He died from a gunshot wound in the head at the Battle of Freeman's Farm near Saratoga on 19 September 1777, a few months after the younger Reynell's birth.

Over ten years later, a more mature Reynell decided on a military career and joined the newly created 38th Regiment of Foot as an ensign in 1793 shortly after his 16th birthday.

[5] He died on 10 February 1848 at Arundel in Sussex and is buried under a granite monument in the churchyard of St Mary's in Walberton.