This is a transcription of the Lucy J. (Whitcomb) Carpenter biography from New Hampshire Women: A Collection of Portraits and Biographical Sketches of Daughters and Residents of the Granite State, Who are Worthy Representatives of their Sex in the Various Walks and Conditions of Life, The New Hampshire Publishing Co., Concord, NH, 1895, page 183.
Lucy J. (Whitcomb) Carpenter
THE Whitcomb family is one of the most notable in the history of southwestern New Hampshire, has figured conspicuously in the civil and military history of the state, and has been especially prominent in the old town of Swanzey. A worthy representative of this family is Lucy J. Whitcomb Carpenter, daughter of Col. Carter Whitcomb, born during his temporary residence at Saxton’s River, Vt., March 9, 1834, but removing to his native town of Swanzey two years later, where she has ever since resided. She was educated at Mount Caesar Seminary, in Swanzey, under the instruction of Prof. Joseph C. Barrett, and Rev. S. H. McCollister, D. D. June 14, 1864, she was united in marriage with George Carpenter, of Swanzey, since prominent in political circles in the state as a leader of the Greenback and Labor party organizations. Soon after the Chautauqua literary and scientific course of study was instituted both Mrs. Carpenter and her husband took up the course and were members of the Ashuelot C. L. S. C. for eight years, graduating with many seals attached to their diplomas. Subsequently they pursued the University course of study in the People’s College, under able professors. Mrs. Carpenter has fine literary ability and poetic talent. She was a leading spirit in the organization of the Mount Caesar Library Association, which occupies the old seminary building, purchased and donated to the association by Mr. Carpenter. She is an active member of the order of Patrons of Husbandry, has held various offices in Golden Rod Grange of Swanzey, and served efficiently as lecturer of Cheshire County Pomona Grange. She is an interested member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, claiming eligibility from her illustrious great grandfather, Col. Jonathan Whitcomb, who fought at Lexington and Bunker Hill. Her kindly greeting and gracious manner add a charm to the generous hospitality of “Valley View,” their pleasant farm home on the slope of Mount Caesar, overlooking Swanzey Plain.