Franks, Charles William
b. 1842(?)
Charles William Franks was born sometime before 1842, and his later work in the Colony of British Columbia was limited to only three years as Treasurer. The Duke of Newcastle appointed Franks to the position of Treasurer in 1864.1 By June of the same year, Franks was planning his journey from England to the colony by the West India Mail Steamer.2 His work as Treasurer included overarching financial matters such as financial returns on civil charges. Franks also sat on the Royal Ordered Legislative Council at its first sitting on 21 January 1864.3
Although Franks held various positions and was a well-educated individual, he was described by Governor Seymour as having a temper so irritable and…so utterly careless.4 On 14 September 1866, Franks was given the knowledge that his position would be terminated on account of his known disputes and street fights with Public Officers as well as his oft-used insulting language and occasional breaking wind in front of other officials.5 His official notice of termination from the Office of the Treasury was received on 22 November 1866. This notice was supposed to have been based on the unification of the colonies of British Columbia and Vancouver Island as well as the colonies' poor financial standing for which he was held responsible.6
Correspondence between Birch and Cardwell, however, indicate that there was likely personal conflicts behind his dismissal as well; they describe Franks as being hated by both Seymour and Birch himself.7 After Franks' formal dismissal in January 1867, he was replaced by Sir William Alexander George Young,8 and seemingly Franks returned to England.
It is unknown when Franks died or what he did after his dismissal as Treasurer. However, what is known is that due to Seymour's dis-recommendations, it was almost impossible for Franks to gain any further employment in the government or Colonial Office.9
Mentions of this person in the documents