Henry Charles Bourn was born at Landford, Wiltshire County, England the 17th day of October, 1841, the son of Henry Bourn and Ann Gay. His father was a yeoman at Landford. Henry C. Bourn emigrated to North America in 1842 but it is unknown if he was brought by his parents or accompanied by other relatives.

On August 21, 1862 at Waukesha, Wisconsin, Henry enlisted for a three year term into Company B of the 28th Regiment of the Wisconsin Infantry. At the time, he was a farmer and 21 years of age. He was of square build, was 5 feet 4 1/2 inches tall, with blue eyes and dark hair. He was mustered into United States service on the 13th day of September 1862 with his regiment. As was customary for a Civil War volunteeer who took the place of another individual, he was paid a bounty of $25.00.

Upon mustering out at the end of the War, he was paid an additional bounty of $75.00. From this he owed the government $6.00 for one Springfield musket and one set of accoutrements.

In late 1865 or early 1866, Henry Bourn married Catherine Mary Mathews. Although born in Wisconsin in May, 1846, her parents had both emigrated from Wales. There were seven children born unto Henry and Catherine: Jennie, Charles, Oren, William, Alvin, Ann, and Arthur. Henry and Catherine owned their own farm in the township of Tiffany, Wisconsin and as of 1900 both Arthur and Alvin were living with their parents and working as farm laborers.

Henry Charles Bourn died on the 15th day of August, 1902 at the age of 60. He is buried at Mound Cemetery in Boyceville, Wisconsin.