Gov. Frank White

About

FRANK WHITE, the eighth governor of North Dakota, was born in Stillman Valley, Illinois on December 12, 1856. His education was attained at the University of Illinois, where he graduated in 1880. In 1882 he moved to Valley City, North Dakota, where he established and operated a successful farm. White first entered politics as a member of the North Dakota House of Representatives, a position he held from 1891 to 1893. He also served in the North Dakota State Senate from 1893 to 1899. White next secured the Republican gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote on November 6, 1900. He was reelected to a second term in 1902. During his tenure, the state deficit was erased; the Eighth Judicial District was established; and construction on the north wing of the old capitol was completed. After leaving the governorship, White served on the State Board of Regents in 1915. He also served as treasurer of the United States, a post he held from 1921 to 1928. White also had a distinguished military career. He served as a major during the Spanish-American War commanding the Second North Dakota National Guard Regiment, which later merged with the 41st Infantry Division. He also was colonel of the 41^st Division in the U.S. Army during World War I. Governor Frank White passed away on March 23, 1940, and was buried with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery.

Source

Sobel, Robert, and John Raimo, eds. Biographical Directory of the Governors of the United States, 1789-1978, Vol. 3, Westport, Conn.; Meckler Books, 1978. 4 vols.

North Dakota State Government

Arlington National Cemetery