William Allen (1704-1780)
Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
One of colonial America's wealthiest men, Allen supported construction of the state house, now Independence Hall. He helped establish Pennsylvania Hospital and the Academy and College of Philadelphia, which became the University of Pa. He founded the City of Allentown and was Chief Justice of the Pa. Supreme Court. Initially supporting colonial interests, he became a Loyalist until he died here at his estate, Mt. Airy, for which the community is named.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
William Allen was one of colonial America's richest men, and his fortune helped build the institutions of early Philadelphia. He backed construction of the State House, now Independence Hall, and helped found Pennsylvania Hospital and the college that became the University of Pennsylvania. He established Allentown and served as Chief Justice of Pennsylvania's Supreme Court, but as revolution neared he broke with the patriot cause and remained a Loyalist until his death at his Mount Airy estate.
Why it matters
Allen embodies the colonial elite whose wealth built enduring civic institutions, even as the Revolution split such men between patriot and Loyalist loyalties.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- African American Museum in Philadelphia7.7 mi away · 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- National Constitution Center7.7 mi away · 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Independence Visitor Center7.9 mi away · 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Betsy Ross House7.9 mi away · 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Illadelph Glass Gallery8.0 mi away · 68 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Museum of Illusions Philadelphia8.0 mi away · 401 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
Attractions
- Discovery Center at East Park Reservoir5.4 mi away
- Pennsylvania Railroad, Connecting Railway Bridge5.9 mi away
- Philadelphia Zoo6.2 mi away
- Harbison's Dairy Milk Bottle6.3 mi away
- Rocky Steps6.7 mi away
- Philly Gun Range7.1 mi away · North Percy Street
Food & drink
- Independence Mall Cafe7.9 mi away · 50 North Independence Mall East, Philadelphia
- Burger King7.9 mi away
- Dunkin'7.9 mi away · 634 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- La Colombe Coffee Roasters7.9 mi away
- Philly Pretzel Factory7.9 mi away
- Time & Peace8.0 mi away · 36 South 7th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- Days Inn Philadelphia Convention Center - Philadelphia7.4 mi away · 1227 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Four Points by Sheraton Philadelphia City Center7.5 mi away · 1201 Race Street, Philadelphia
- Clarion Suites Philadelphia7.5 mi away · 1010 Race Street, Philadelphia
- Sleep Inn Center City7.6 mi away · 1020 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia - Convention Center, PA7.6 mi away · 1200 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- The Notary Hotel7.6 mi away · 21 North Juniper Street, Philadelphia
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Related people
- · William Allen
Themes & tags
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