[1][2][3] He was the first cousin of James A. McCauley, president of Dickinson College and Methodist Episcopal minister.

[1][2][3] McCauley received his early education at Maffit's schoolhouse and took grammar lessons with Dr. Cleveland in North East.

McCauley was a supporter of the temperance movement and helped pass legislation for closing drinking places on election days.

[1][2][3][4] In 1868, McCauley was appointed as school commissioner of the third district and served as president of the board until December 1868.

[2] In December 1868, McCauley was appointed by Governor Thomas Swann as chief judge of the Orphans' Court, replacing Levi H. Evans.

They had three children, Helen A., James J. and Hattie S.[2][3] His son John served as a first lieutenant in the Union Army during the Civil War.