[1] He began his education in New York City at Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School, because his family moved there in 1845.

He began practicing law in Norwich, Connecticut from his residence and continued to do so until June 1864.

In 1864 he opened an office in New York City, his residence being in Southport, Connecticut at the time.

In 1867, he relocated both his office and his home to Stamford, Connecticut, where he formed a partnership with Joshua B. Ferris a fellow Yale graduate.

He was appointed District Attorney for Connecticut on March 1, 1870, and held that position until his death.