George Allen
Houston, Harris County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(April 12, 1812 - June 5, 1854) Texas War for Independence soldier; served also in Somervell Expedition against aggressors in Republic of Texas. Born in New York state. Came to Texas in 1830s. Settled 1838 in Houston, to help his brothers, Augustus C. and John Kirby Allen, establish city. George Allen in 1839 became first committeeman appointed to make improvements in shipping artery, Buffalo Bayou. He married Harriet E. Fenley of Nacogdoches; they had 3 sons. Recorded - 1973
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Born in New York in 1812, George Allen came to Texas in the 1830s and fought in the war for independence, later joining the Somervell Expedition. In 1838 he settled in Houston to help his brothers Augustus and John Kirby Allen establish the new city, and in 1839 became the first committeeman charged with improving Buffalo Bayou, its vital shipping artery. His work helped set Houston on its course as a commercial port.
Why it matters
Allen links the fight for Texas independence to the deliberate founding of Houston, one of the republic's most consequential cities.
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Related people
- · George Allen
- · Augustus C. Allen
- · John Kirby Allen
Themes & tags
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