Charles Bannell

Charles Samuel Bannell was a soldier who served in World War I from November 1916 to
October 30th 1917. Bannell was born on the 10th of October, 1883 in Liverpool, England. He
left England at the age of sixteen, leaving him with limited education. He arrived in Port Alberni
that same year. Eventually he pursued the professions of cook and baker, and he believed in the
Church of England. Bannell wrote poetry, and many of his poems were
published in the Alberni newspapers. Charless brother collected his
poetry after his death and it was eventually put to-
gether as a book and published.
The Port Alberni Archives has a
copy of this book in their collec-
tion. Poetry was a talent that came
very naturally to Charles, he
would paint the most beautiful
pieces of poetry with his words
that flowed effortlessly.
Charles Bannell enlisted in the
Charles Bannell, Seaforth Highlanders, 1916
Canadian Expeditionary Force in
Vancouver on November 24, 1916. He was a member of the
Seaforth Highlanders and assigned to the 231st Overseas
Battalion. He arrived in
England on April 22nd,
1917. He made a short visit
to his home and family, and
on May 23rd, he was dis-
patched to France. Bannell
Passchendaele Ridge, Belgium, C. 1917. encountered many danger-
ous and hard situations and places dur-
ing his service, however he pushed through it and fought to the end.
Charles Bannell passed away on October 30th, 1917 while fighting
on Passchendaele Ridge.
Charles Bannell was one
of many courageous and
brave men, and our country
is forever grateful for their
service and sacrifices.