Essleck S. Sherman
Early Life
Essleck Sheldon Sherman was born on December 10, 1897, in Rye, New York, the son of Arthur Outram Sherman and Janet Morrison Sheldon. He grew up in Rye, where his family resided near Long Island Sound, fostering an early connection to the sea that would later influence his naval service.
He was educated at Pomfret School and went on to attend Harvard University, graduating in 1918 after completing an accelerated course of study during the wartime period.
World War I Service
Sherman entered military service on April 25, 1917, enlisting in the United States Naval Reserve Force at the New York Navy Yard shortly after the United States entered World War I.
He began his service as a Seaman and was assigned to several vessels, including the USS Harvard and the USS Wacondah, before advancing rapidly through the enlisted ranks. His demonstrated ability and leadership led to his promotion to Chief Boatswain’s Mate, one of the senior enlisted ratings responsible for deck operations, seamanship, and supervision of crew.
As part of the Navy’s wartime training programs, Sherman returned temporarily to Harvard to complete a course in navigation, qualifying him for officer responsibilities. Although he passed the examinations for a junior officer, he was not formally commissioned due to age restrictions, but served in the capacity of an acting ensign.
He later underwent training at the Naval Training Camp at Pelham Bay Park and subsequently requested sea duty, reflecting a desire for active operational service.
Sherman was assigned to the USS Great Northern, a major troop transport vessel operating in Atlantic convoys. Ships such as the Great Northern played a critical role in transporting American soldiers to Europe, often sailing in heavily guarded convoys to protect against German submarine threats. These transports carried large numbers of troops and were essential to sustaining the American Expeditionary Forces overseas.
He served throughout the war and was released to inactive duty on December 17, 1918, with the rating of Chief Boatswain’s Mate.
Life After Service
Following his military service, Sherman returned to civilian life but suffered long-term health complications attributed to his naval service. According to contemporary accounts, prolonged exposure to harsh conditions at sea contributed to chronic illness, leading to numerous medical procedures over the following years.
Despite these challenges, he remained active socially and was known for his athletic ability during his youth, including recognition in national publications during his time at Harvard.
He married Anne Gordon Winchester in 1922, and the couple had one son, Essleck Sheldon Sherman Jr.
Essleck S. Sherman died on September 14, 1929, at the American Hospital in Neuilly, France, at the age of 31 after years of declining health.
He was buried in Rye, New York, in Greenwood Union Cemetery. He was survived by his son, his father, and his siblings, and was remembered by many for his character and service.
Essleck Sheldon Sherman 
