James Carpenter, Seventh Rhode Island Infantry.

Rhode Island Seventh Infantry Regimental History.

James Carpenter.

Principal Musician James Carpente2, son of Isaac H. and Abbie Perry Carpenter, was born in Wakefield, R. I., May 13, 1843. In 1861 when Gen. I. P. Rodman recruited Company E of the Second Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers, and went to camp on Dexter Training Ground, Providence, James accompanied it, expecting to go to the front. His parents withheld their consent, however, so after two weeks of tent life he was obliged to return home, which now was at Peacedale. Though disappointed he patiently awaited another chance and when Capt. Rowland G. Rodman commenced
to recruit what eventually became Company G of the Seventh, young Carpenter and a friend, Frank B. Holland, proved themselves valuable assistants. By day and by night they played upon the fife and drum as required, visiting most sections of Washington County in the search for additional members. James enrolled himself August 8th, and acquitted himself creditably during the entire term of service.

Samuel's friend
Frank B. Holland.

He was made principal musician Dec. 15, 1864, when in Fort Hell, but was always recognized as head fifer. After he was mustered out he consecrated his entire life to music. Not only does he give instruction on the piano, the flute, the cornet, and, the violin, but he is a manufacturer of the latter instrument. Though residing at Peacedale, his field of labor is co-extensive with Washington County. He is leader of the Wakefield Band and instructor of the Lafayette Cornet Band.

Page 163, During one of our early halts an old, grim, corroded bugle was picked up. The finder at once carried it to fifers William Kenneth and James Carpenter at the head of the regiment, who alternately sported with it making withal humorous attempts to repeat the brigade bugler's signals whenever issued. Rarely did men find so much sport in a day's journey as was furnished by the comical use of that dilapidated instrument.