Michael White, a.k.a. Miguel Blanco (1801-1885)

Michael White, as painted by artist Clarence Ellsworth in 1935 from photographs. Courtesy of San Marino Historical Society

Michael White, as painted by artist Clarence Ellsworth in 1935 from photographs. Courtesy of San Marino Historical Society


Michael White was an English s ailor who settled in Southern California in 1828. The Bancroft Library recorded his colorful life in “California: All the Way Back to 1828,” which tells of White’s exploits and accomplishments proving his status as an important figure in our history. Michael White:

  • Joined an English whaling ship, and defeated a pirate attack as a teenager;
  • Served as an officer in the Hawaiian Navy;
  • Was among the first ship builder in Southern California;
  • Captained many sea voyages from California to Mexico;
  • Guided the Rowland - Workman party from New Mexico to California;
  • Joined Pio Pico in his insurrection against Mexican Governor Micheltorena;
  • Was held as prisoner of war in the Mexican – American war;
  • Married Maria Rosario de Guillen and fathered 13 children.

Many of White’s descendants still live in the area and consider the Adobe as part of their family heritage.