Before his time in Congress Charles attended common schools,was
a bricklayer in New Orleans,and had enlisted as private for the U.S. volunteers in July of 1863.He was later promoted to Sergeant Major,but his military service proved to be disastrous as he lost the lower third of his right leg just before the Civil War's end.
As a result of his military service and strong support of Republican Party,he was appointed the position of night inspector in the New Orleans Customs House-apowerful post in the local political machine.In 1874 he was elected,
uncontested,to the House of Reresentatives from the 6th Congressional District.Despite his easy election,Charles made little political impact during his time in Congress.He was assigned to the Committee on Education and Labor.On June 7th,1876 Charles made the only major address during his term as Congressman.His speech condemned the violent and anti-democratic actions of some Southern Democratics,called for greater education
among the populace,and also for increased racial and political peace especially in the South.Partly a result internal divisions within the Louisiana Republician Party,Charles lost his bid for reelection to Democratic challenger Edward Robertson by over 5,000 votes.He never again held elective office.Charles return briefly bricklayer's trade and was later a postmaster in St.Landry parish until 1882.Charles also later worked as a cigar maker.
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