Beebe, William Sully, 1841-1898

William Sully Beebe was born on February 14, 1841, in Ithica, N. Y. He attended West Point Academy, graduating in 1863. He immediately entered the army, with an appointment of Second Lieutenant of Ordnance. During the Civil War, he received honors on multiple occasions. He remained in the army until 1874, when he resigned his commission. After his resignation, he spent his time creating a theory that argued, in part, for a connection between the Biblical book of Genesis and the ancient peoples of the Americas. With the start of the Spanish-American War, Beebe reentered the army and died of yellow fever in Havana, Cuba, on October 12, 1898.

From the guide to the William Sully Beebe papers, 1844-1898, (Manuscripts and Archives)

William S. Beebe, a lieutenant in the United States Army, was Chief of Ordnance in the field and Assistant Chief of Ordnance at Headquarters, Department of the Gulf, in New Orleans. Commanded by Major General Nathaniel Prentiss Banks, Beebe on two separate occasions led regiments into battle during which he took prisoners. For this, Major General Banks recommended him to Andrew G. Curtin, Governor of Pennsylvania.

From the description of William S. Beebe papers, 1864 Apr. 17-June 14. (Louisiana State University). WorldCat record id: 122580324