Charlie Dove was born in 1879. He was an apprentice riveter with the Thames Iron Works when he agreed to play for the works team. He had already shown great promise playing for two local teams, Upton Park and South West Ham. According to the East Ham Echo, Dove was the "finest right half back in Essex" (23rd April, 1898). During his career, he played in every position for West Ham, including goalkeeper. In 1901 Dove was sold to Millwall. The following year he suffered a serious injury that ended his football career.