Career
Born into slavery in Richmond, Virginia in 1830, he was brought to Texas in 1837. While a slave he built a reputation as a skilled carpenter. After emancipation, he became a contractor.
He built the mansion for Houston mayor Joseph R. Morris as well as the first bridge across Buffalo Bayou.
He became active in Republican party politics and was elected to the Twelfth Legislature in 1869. He unsuccessfully ran for United States Congress in 1870.
He unsuccessfully ran for Lieutenant Governor of Texas in 1878, making him the first African-American to seek statewide office in that state. He continued to be active in the Republican party, and attended state and national conventions until 1896.
Allen also served as a quartermaster in the Texas militia and as a customs officer in Houston.
He was also active in his church and in local community organizations. He died in 1909 and is buried in the Olivewood Cemetery in Houston.
