Carpenter attended Brown University. He graduated from there in 1854, part of the last class taught by Francis Wayland. He then became a teacher, simultaneously studying law. When he reached the age of majority, he was admitted to the bar. At some point, he moved to Sag Harbor, New York, and practiced law there. He served as Assistant United States Assessor for Suffolk County, Chairman of the Republican County Committee of Suffolk County, and President of the Board of Education. He was a member of the Stalwart faction.[2]
Carpenter was a member of the Psi Upsilon fraternity.[4] He was married to the daughter of Captain Barney Green of Southampton. They had two daughters, Maria Gleason and Addie.[5]
Carpenter died at home from heart disease on August 5, 1899.[5] He was buried in Oakland Cemetery in Sag Harbor.