Sharpe was born in 1834 at Red Hook, Dutchess County, New York. He attended the United States Military Academy and Dartmouth College, graduating in 1856. He was married to Julia Cooke, the daughter of Union General, Philip St. George Cooke. Two of his brothers-in-law were Confederate Generals, John Rogers Cooke and Jeb Stuart.

Sharpe started his Civil War service as a 1st Lieutenant in the 20th New York Militia. He was promoted to Major in the 56th New York Infantry. Sharpe was transferred to the 156th New York Infantry and was appointed Colonel. He was brevetted Brigadier General of the United States Volunteers on March 13, 1865 for gallant and meritorious service at the battle of Winchester, Virginia.

Jacob Sharpe was a real estate agent by profession and later became a U. S. Customs official. From 1880 to 1889, he was the Governor of the Northwest Branch of the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers at Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He returned to Detroit and died on April 27, 1892.

Born: July 31, 1834
Died: April 27, 1892
Buried: Section H, Lot 94