My Genealogy Hound

John D. Carpenter, M. D., one of the successful practitioners of Rolla, and the son of Benedict K. and Sarah Ann (Rodenbo) Carpenter, was born in Pontiac, Mich., in 1853. Benjamin K. Carpenter was born in Orange County, N. Y., in 1810; is of American descent, and a farmer by occupation. When married he lived at Pontiac, Mich., where he now resides. In early life he followed merchandising in New York, but in 1835 moved to Pontiac, Mich., settling in the wild woods, and built the first frame house and barn in that community. He has lived the greater portion of his life on the same farm. Sarah Ann (Rodenbo) Carpenter was born in Steuben County, N. Y., is of German descent, is still living, and is sixty-four years of age. They are the parents of four children: William E., farmer at Pontiac, Mich., and a member of the Legislature; John D., Carrie and Charles H., at Pontiac. Dr. John D. Carpenter received his collegiate education at Agricultural College, at Lansing, Mich., and in 1872 he entered the teacher’s profession, following this five years. In 1877 he commenced the study of medicine, his preceptor being Dr. Carleton Graves, of New York, and in 1878 entered the University Medical College of New York City, graduating in 1881. The same year he located at Rolla, Mo., where he entered upon his practice. From 1884 to February, 1887, the Doctor was absent from Rolla; was in Springfield, Mo., a portion of the time. In July, 1884, Dr. Carpenter married Miss Jennie Van Campen, who was born in Romeo, Mich. They have two children, Gertrude and Grace. In 1883 and 1884 Dr. Carpenter took a post graduate course in the School of Medicine and Surgery at St. Louis, and is one of the most thoroughly posted medical men in Phelps County. He is a skillful surgeon, and a man much esteemed and respected by the public and at large. He is a Democrat in his political views, is a member of the Rolla District Medical Society, of the I. O. O. F., and also a member of the A. O. U. W.