Editor’s Note: In conjunction with the Chenango County Civil War Commemoration Project Team, The Evening Sun will present a monthly series chronicling items of local interest during the war between the states, compiled and written by a number of local history enthusiasts.

By Rose Wellman

Sherburne Historian

This is the story of a Civil War soldier from Sherburne, who was killed at the battle of Cedar Creek, October 19th, 1864. It is similar to others who were killed in the war, but the circumstances which occurred after his death make it a one-of-a-kind story. The soldier was Sergeant William Wesley Wakeley, son of Samuel and Phidelia Wakeley, born in Hamilton on November 15, 1837. He was a mechanic before he enlisted on August 2, 1862 in Co F, 114th NYV. He was called by either of his given names William or Wesley

Years later his great, great- nephew, Kip Yerton, became interested in the story of his Civil War relative and began research for a book. Sadly, Kip passed away before he finished the story. I found out who had Kip’s papers and I asked for a copy. I have edited it in length and context for this article; otherwise these are Kip’s own words.

THE HOLE IN THE BIBLE – PART II