CALEB N. WHITE. – Mr. White is a representative of that class of our citizens who have gained from their own strength and application a share in the advantages and wealth of our Western communities.
He was born in Illinois in 1850. He 1864 his parents took the first steps of the journey across the plains, but, the father dying at Fort Bridger, the family was compelled to remain there over winter. While thus waiting, cattle to the value of one thousand dollars were stolen from them. With the opening of the following season, however, the journey was resumed; and the Grande Ronde valley was reached in September, 1863. Upon their arrival there were but seventy-five cents in the family; and Caleb and his brother began at once seeking and finding work for the maintenance of the others.
In 1871 they came into Indian valley, Oregon, north of the Grande Ronde, and there laid claims. The sickness and death of his brother within the next year was a severe trial to Caleb; but nevertheless, maintaining a stout heart, he clung to his place, cultivating and improving it. His operations have gradually enlarged, until he is at present owner of a fine herd of cattle, with other livestock. He has a pleasant home, and has a family of wife and six fine children. In that beautiful valley of his choice he has met the prosperity which everywhere awaits patient labor.
In 1866 during the Nez Perce trouble in the Wallowa, Mr. White was sergeant of the volunteers, and guarded the few persons living in that much-exposed settlement. During the trouble the two succeeding summers, the same efficient duty was performed. For that service, as well as for his general character and abilities, Mr. White is very highly esteemed in his community.