Those who own land in Delaware county have a safe and profitable investment, as the soil here, as in other parts of this great agricultural state, is of seemingly inexhaustible fertility and the climate is splendidly adapted to the raising of a variety of crops. Frank L. Carpenter is the owner of five hundred and twenty acres of this valuable land and is one of the well to do and prosperous citizens of Oneida township. He was born in Rock county, Wisconsin, on the 14th of March, 1855, a son of Daniel L. and Sabra (Tillotson) Carpenter, both natives of New York state. In the '40s they removed to Rock county, Wisconsin, and settled on a farm, remaining in that state until 1860, when they came to this county. They located upon a farm in Oneida township and the father continued to follow agriculture as an occupation. Both he and his wife died in this county and left not only five children, but many sincere friends to mourn their loss. Six children were born, to their union, but one is deceased.
       Frank L. Carpenter was given the advantages of a liberal education, being graduated from Bayless Commercial College at Dubuque. he continued to make his home under the parental roof until he became of age and then purchased a farm in Honey Creek township and began his independent business career. He lived upon that property for two years and then sold it, buying the five hundred and twenty acres upon which he now lives. It is situated on sections 12, 13 and 14, Oneida township, and has commodious barns, cribs and other necessary buildings, while the residence is one of the comfortable homes of the county. Mr. Carpenter feeds the greater part of the grain which he raises to his stock, which is of a high grade and commands a good price upon the market. In addition to the stock which he raises, he buys cattle and hogs and fattens them for sale. He has an abundance of excellent feed for his stock, understands the scientific apportionment of rations which is necessary in order to secure the best results arid has comfortable buildings for the shelter of his animals in cold or stormy weather, and fill of his foresight and care is amply rewarded by his increased profits, he is also treasurer and director in the Almoral Improvement Company, of Almoral, Delaware county.
      The marriage of Mr. Carpenter and Miss Emma Smith was solemnized in 1879. She is a native of this county and a daughter of Charles and Jane (Miller) Smith, natives of England and New York state respectively. About 1857 they came to this county and settled upon a farm, upon which they continued to reside until called to their last rest. Mrs. Carpenter is one of twelve children and by her marriage has become the mother of ten children, namely: Albert, deceased; Charles D., of Oneida township; Elisha R. also, deceased: one child who died in infancy; E. F., at home; Sabra Jane, the wife of L. B. Bishop of Oneida township; Jane, deceased; and Reuben, Rosa May and Lorenzo M., all at home.
      Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter are members of the Congregational church and not only contribute to its support but give of their time in the furtherance of its work. Mr. Carpenter is a republican and has served as township clerk and road supervisor, proving a capable and conscientious official. He has gained financial success and is sure of a competence, even if he should retire from active life at the present time, but he prefers to have his time occupied with useful tasks and is still energetically carrying on his business affairs. He has also attained that higher success by gaining the complete confidence and sincere respect of his fellowmen, and those who have been associated with him recognize his strict integrity and innate kindness of heart.