[1] While working as a bookkeeper, Carpenter studied law with attorney Stephen T. Davenport of Brattleboro, Vermont.

[1] As a resident of Whitingham, Vermont, Carpenter served in local offices including school board member.

[1] He served on the board of directors of the Berkshire County Cooperative Bank and was secretary of the Hoosac Valley Agricultural Society.

[1] Carpenter was a member of the Masonic lodge in Jacksonville, Vermont and the Royal Arcanum's Berkshire Council.

[3] He worked briefly as counsel for a corporation in Detroit before moving to Brattleboro, where he continued to practice law.

[3][4] A Democrat during an era when Republicans controlled Vermont's government, Carpenter was an unsuccessful candidate for several offices in Windham County, including state's attorney.

[2][7] After becoming a resident of Brattleboro, Carpenter was active in the town's Order of Royal and Select Masters commandery and Knights Templar preceptory.

[12] In addition, he enforced anti-immigration laws against individuals attempting to illegally cross the Canadian border.

[13] Carpenter also arrested US service members who committed crimes in Vermont or were reported as absent without leave or having deserted.