It's possible you may be thinking of Charles Tyson Yerkes (1837-1905), a prominent American businessman and financier. He was known for building the Chicago "L" (elevated railway system) and for his involvement in the development of the New York City subway system. However, Yerkes is not known for any published literary works.
Could you please provide more context or information about the author you're interested in? Perhaps you are thinking of someone else with a similar name?