Halsey was born in Dover, Morris County, New Jersey.

His family moved to near Holden, Johnson County, Missouri in 1878.

He attended the Home Academy at Holden, the State Normal School at Warrensburg, and the University of Missouri.

He taught school and engaged in the mercantile business in Holden from 1880 to 1881.

He moved to Sedalia, Missouri in 1904 engaging in the wholesale tea and coffee business; member of the executive committee of the Missouri State Roads commission 1906-1910.