Carter was mentioned in the 24 November 1829 will of his father, Roger Shackelford, proved 21 December 1829. [Essex County, Virginia, Will Book 22, pages, 34–35.]

1850 U.S. Census, Essex County, Virginia
Dwelling 28, Family 28
Shackleford, Carter, 52, male, farmer, $500 real estate, born in Virginia
Shackleford, Elizabeth, 43, female, born in Virginia