Michael White
Michael White was the fourth son of William White and Mary (Darling) White. He was born on February 27, 1817, in Morgantown, West Virginia. He married Mary Ann Russell in 1839. They had seven children: Henry Solomon, William Thomas, Lydia Ann, Catherine (died young), Israel Charles, and John, who died as an infant. His wife Mary died on May 23, 1852, in Monongalia County, West Virginia. Michael then married Jane Sharpnach in 1853. They had no children. Michael’s farm was very close to the Pennsylvania line below Oak Forest Church. It was said that he was very strong and could out chop any man in chopping wood. In 1863, Michael was a member of the Commission to divide Monongalia County into Townships, later changed into Districts. In honor of Rev. Gordon Battelle, he suggested the name Battelle for the most western district. Michael died on December 30, 1868, in Monongalia County, West Virginia. Michael and Mary and are both buried in the White family cemetery on the hill near the log cabin.
