Charles Cutts Gookin Thornton (1830-1898), was born to a prominent business family in Saco. He attended Thornton Academy from 1839-1843, then chose to enter business.

In 1861, when the Civil War began, Thornton formed a company of Scarborough-area men. He enlisted as a captain of Co. C of the 12th Maine Infantry. Thornton was praised for his leadership and bravery while commanding troops in Louisiana.

He was injured at Pontchatoula, Louisiana, in September 1862. When he recovered from his wounds, he became an aide to Brig. Gen. George F. Shepley, military governor of Louisiana and former commander of the 12th Maine.

After the war, he continued his business career in Wisconsin and Massachusetts.

The photograph appeared in a privately produced biography of Thornton.