A carpenter was good at working with wood. Farmers could build tables or put up houses. But only a carpenter could craft these items with skill and beauty. The carpenter knew the strengths of each type of wood. He knew the right wood to choose for each job. He got his wood from the town's sawmill.

The carpenter built houses and furniture. He also made plow handles, washboards, and barrel staves. The carpenter’s tools were saws and vices. He used a lathe to shape wood for table and chair legs. A chisel helped him carve wood. He cut wood skillfully. Pieces fit together perfectly. The carpenter used sandpaper and varnish to put a fine finish on his work. His work looked good and lasted a long time. Settlers often paid the carpenter with wood, instead of money.

The carpenter sometimes built coffins for people that died. He even arranged the funeral, acting as an undertaker.