During 1917 and 1918 about 98% of adult men under age 46 living in the U.S. in completed civilian draft registration cards. During those two years, three registration days were held and approximately 24 million men born between 1873 and 1900 completed the process. Harvey Van Hise's card indicates that he registered on September 12, 1918, which was the last of the three registration events. He was living at 21 Ball Street in Irvington, Essex, New Jersey and was employed as a drop forger for Joseph Ross and Company in Irvington. As his "closest relative," Harvey listed his wife Fanny Van Hise [Christine F. Van Hise], 21 Ball Street, Irvington, NJ.

Born on December 14, 1879, Harvey Van Hise was one of ten children born to Louisa (Acker) Van Hise and Anthony Van Hise. Louisa (Acker) Van Hise was the daughter of Philip Acker and Jane Evans Acker and the granddaughter of Abraham and Sarah Acker. Harvey Van Hise was the great-grandson of Abraham and Sarah Acker.