Background
Butler was born in Surry County, Virginia, where his family had lived since the mid-17th century.
Butler was born in Surry County, Virginia, where his family had lived since the mid-17th century.
Butler studied at the College of William and Mary.
He served as Adjutant General of Virginia in the War of 1812, and was State Treasurer of Virginia 1846-1853. He eventually obtained a Doctor of Medicine degree and practiced medicine in Smithfield, Virginia. Butler married twice.
Their son, John Bracken Butler, also became a physician.
Their daughter, Otelia Voinard Butler, married William Mahone, a railroad executive, Confederate general, United States Senator, and leading figure in the Readjuster Party. Butler died July 31, 1853.
Several of his ancestors had been members of the House of Burgesses.