Originally named Tidwell Creek, White Rock began as a settlement and stop on the Sherman-Jefferson Trail. According to local tradition, the first settlers were members of the Jonas Havens family. A post office was established in 1857. Businesses in the town included stores, saloons, a blacksmith shop, a mill, and a gin. A school operated until the 1940s. Early traveling preachers served the community’s religious needs until two churches were organized. The population declined as railroad expansion in other parts of the county drew growth away from the community.