Born in Augusta County, Virginia, Harper was in private practice in New Orleans, Louisiana from 1808 to 1829.
He also served in the United States Army during the War of 1812 and became a lieutenant colonel.
[1] Harper was nominated by President Andrew Jackson on March 6, 1829, to a joint seat on the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana and the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana vacated by Judge Thomas B. Robertson.
He was confirmed by the United States Senate on March 7, 1829, and received his commission the same day.
His service terminated on July 19, 1837, due to his death in Madisonville, Louisiana.