Theodore Howard McCaleb was born in Pendleton District, South Carolina on February 10, 1810.

He was educated at Phillips Exeter Academy, and attended Yale University, but left before graduating.

[1][2] He read law in 1832, and entered private practice in New Orleans, Louisiana from 1832 to 1841.

He was confirmed by the United States Senate on September 3, 1841, and received his commission the same day.

[3] Following his resignation from the federal bench, McCaleb resumed private practice in New Orleans from 1861 to 1864.