Charles Eliab Ballou was born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, November 5, 1846, and was educated in the graded and high schools of the city. He began business life in association with his father, then a partner in the Woonsocket Baking Company, there continuing until becoming clerk and bookkeeper with a manufacturing company, and later was clerk in a wall paper and crockery store. This last position was held until 1865, when he entered the service of the Woonsocket Institution for Savings, his uncle Latimer Whipple Ballou, then being cashier of that institution. He began as a clerk and rose through various positions in the bank until he became assistant to the treasurer. Latimer Whipple Ballou, who had long been treasurer of the bank, died May 9, 1900, Charles E. Ballou, his former assistant, being chosen to succeed him in the treasurer's office. He occupied that post for thirteen years, then was elected vice-president, his present office. This long term of service in clerical and official position, 1885 - 1918, has developed the capable financier, strong, self-reliant and resourceful, thoroughly versed in financial law, procedure and custom, ranking with the ablest financiers of his city. Mr. Ballou is a Republican in politics, influential in the party and deeply interested in all that pertains to the public good. He served the city of Woonsocket for two years as a member of the Board of Aldermen, and for several years was treasurer of the Woonsocket Hospital. He served on the staff of Governor Charles W. Lippett, with the rank of colonel, and in religious preference is a Universalist. He has long been a member of the Masonic order and holds the thirty-second degree, and an Accepted Scottish Rite.

Mr. Ballou married Emma G. Cook, daughter of Reuben O. Cook, of Woonsocket. They were the parents of two children: Carrie L., born June 16, 1870; Clarence Earl, born November 26, 1872. Mrs. Ballou died January 6, 1913
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Twin of Caroline Eliza