Benjamin Carpenter

Benjamin Carpenter was (May 17, 1725—March 29, 1804) was a leader of colonial Vermont who served as an officer in the American Revolution and Lieutenant Governor.

Biography
Benjamin Carpenter was born in Swansea, Massachusetts on May 17, 1725. He lived in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island prior to settling in Vermont in 1770.

Carpenter became involved in the early politics of Vermont, including the ongoing dispute between New Hampshire and New York over which one should have jurisdiction. Siding with those who favored Vermont's independence, Carpenter was kidnapped by pro-New York forces in 1783. He was released on the condition that he petition the Vermont government for release of imprisoned members of the pro-New York group, something he never did.

At the start of the Revolution Carpenter served as chairman of his county Committee of Safety, and was appointed a Lieutenant Colonel in the militia. In addition, he served as a member of Vermont's Council of Safety.

In 1779 Carpenter was elected Lieutenant Governor, and he served until 1781. Carpenter served as a member of the Council of Censors in 1783.

Benjamin Carpenter was a devout Baptist. In addition to serving as a deacon for more than 50 years, he also took to the pulpit on occasion to lead services and preach sermons.

Carpenter died on Guilford, Vermont on March 29, 1804. He was buried in West Guilford's Carpenter Cemetery.