Fred Waite was born on September 28, 1853, in Fort Arbuckle in the Indian Territory. He was the son of Thomas Waite and Catherine McClure, both of Chickasaw descent. Growing up in this region, Waite was exposed to the struggles and hardships faced by his people under the increasing encroachment of European settlers.
As a young man, Waite found himself working for the local cattle baron, John Turnstall. It was during this time that he first crossed paths with the notorious outlaw, Billy the Kid. When Turnstall was murdered by a local lawman, Waite was thrust into a life of crime alongside Billy the Kid and his gang.
For a time, Waite rode alongside Billy the Kid, participating in various illegal activities across the wild west. However, as time passed, Waite began to feel conflicted about the path he had chosen. Eventually, he made the difficult decision to leave Billy the Kid's gang behind and return to his Chickasaw roots.
Once back among his own people, Waite devoted himself to serving the Chickasaw nation. He became the nation's attorney general, using his knowledge of the law to advocate for justice and equality for his people. Later, Waite was elected as a senator, where he represented Chickasaw interests in the inter-tribal Indian council.
Throughout his life, Fred Waite remained dedicated to fighting for the rights and sovereignty of the Chickasaw people. His journey from outlaw to respected statesman serves as a testament to the power of redemption and the ability to make a positive impact on the world.
Outside of his political and legal pursuits, Fred Waite was known for his compassion and dedication to his community. He was a beloved figure among the Chickasaw people and was revered for his commitment to justice and fairness.
In his later years, Waite continued to be a prominent voice for Chickasaw rights, even as he faced challenges and obstacles along the way. His unwavering determination and strength of character left a lasting impact on those who knew him.