Born on October 24, 1803, in Blooming Grove, New York,[1] White graduated from Union College in 1822 and read law in 1825.

[2] Following his departure from the Senate, White resumed private practice in Stockwell, Indiana, from 1845 to 1861,[1] also serving as president of several railroads during that time period,[2] including the Indianapolis and La Fayette Railroad and the Wabash and Western Railway.

[2] He was appointed by President Lincoln as one of three commissioners to adjust the claims of citizens of Minnesota and the Dakota Territory against the United States Government for Indian depredations, relating to a Sioux Indian Massacre occurring in 1862.

[2][1] White was nominated by President Abraham Lincoln on January 14, 1864, to a seat on the United States District Court for the District of Indiana vacated by Judge Caleb Blood Smith.

[1] He was confirmed by the United States Senate on January 18, 1864, and received his commission the same day.