Benjamin Carpenter

Benjamin Carpenter (May 17, 1725—March 29, 1804) was a leader of colonial Vermont who served as an officer in the American Revolution and as 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 the jurisdiction, including the ability to sell land grants to white settlers. Siding with those who had purchased land grants from New Hampshire and 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.