White is one of 24 members of the Robert Finch Camp. He and a slate of officers were sworn into their duties at the camp's bi-monthly meeting Saturday at the South City Limits Restaurant in Traverse City. The meeting also featured a presentation by George Goodrich, a member from Benzonia and the camp's historian, on Benzonia author and Civil War historian Bruce Catton. The Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War began in the 1880s, formed when a number of veteran's organizations combined. Its purpose and mission includes education, maintaining graves, memorials, monuments and records of the Civil War and those who fought in it for the Union Army.
Membership is open to direct male descendents of Civil War veterans.
In addition, up to a third of the membership in each camp can be comprised of people not directly descended from a veteran but who have an interest in the Civil War. The Robert Finch Camp began in Grand Rapids in 1914 and later moved to Traverse City. It is one of 172 camps in 24 states. While a small camp, it is growing and recently garnered an award for growth from the national organization. Bill Skillman of Traverse City is one of the newer members, joining the Robert Finch Camp two years ago.