Early Memories of Saugatuck, Michigan : 1830-1930
Author: Heath, May Francis
Publisher: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company; Grand Rapids, Mich: 1930

LIEUTENANT WILLIAM WHITE

William White is one of three brothers who emigrated to the United States, one brother, David, living in Saugatuck the greater part of his life, serving in the Civil War, and being united, in marriage with Miss Abigail Abbey.

William White was born at Sidney Mines, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, March 2, 1835. He went to work in a coal mine when but nine years of age, continuing till in 1855 he came to Saugatuck, where he worked for the Wallin Leather Co. until he enlisted in the Civil War in Company I, 5th Michigan Cavalry — belonging to the famous Custer Brigade.

For eleven months he was a prisoner at the Libby and Andersonville prisons, obtained a parole and fought through from Winchester to the surrender of Lee at Appomattox, being on the firing line when the flag went up. In 1863 he was made first sergeant, in 1864 was made second lieutenant and at the close was serving as first lieutenant. After receiving his honorable discharge Mr. White returned to Saugatuck and was married to Miss Caroline Martin. Mrs. White was a real pioneer, being born in New Richmond in 1840, the daughter of Josiah and Amy Martin. Her father came here from New York with the Wilders in 1837 to build the Singapore mills at the mouth of the Kalamazoo river.

After their marriage they went to their farm in Peach-belt, in which he had invested his savings before he entered the war, and here they lived and brought up to a fine womanhood three daughters, Jennie (deceased), Mary and Bessie.

Mr. White has served in many public offices being supervisor for several years. He served as senior vice commander of the G. A. R., also aide de camp on the state staff.

Their busy life is over but their memory lives in the hearts of their children and hosts of friends.