Charles Amos Messenger (1853 – 21 April 1905), a professional sculler and rower, was born in London where his family was well known in aquatic circles. He married Annie Frances Atkinson on 30 November 1875 in Gore St Fitzroy, Victoria, and died in Sydney, Australia. The couple had eight children including the original Australian superstar of Rugby League and Rugby Union, Dally Messenger. and the younger Wally Messenger, who also represented Australia in Rugby League.