Alpheus Spring Packard graduated from Bowdoin College in 1816, and taught at Gorham Academy, Wiscasset and Bucksport schools before becoming principal of Hallowell Academy.

In 1819, he was asked to tutor at Bowdoin and in 1824 he was chosen to be the professor of Latin and Greek at the College, a position he held until 1865. Professor Packard was also active in the Maine Historical Society, becoming a member six years after its incorporation. He was also a librarian and cabinet keeper for 45 years. He was a member of the Royal Historical Society, the New York Historical Society and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

In 1883, Packard became Bowdoin's acting president , a post he held until 1884. He died a week after resigning from the position.