YOUR SILENT NEIGHBORS, Alfred Allen, Shopkeeper
by David K. Leff
Town Poet Laureate and Deputy Town Historian   

Alfred Allen (1830-1906) ran a clothing business in Collinsville, specializing in men’s, children’s and boy’s apparel.  He also sold jewelry.  In 1898, the store was robbed.  The thief was found wearing pants and a coat he had stolen. 

For many years the senior warden of Trinity Church, Allen was an organizer of the parish.  He was a member of the Village Lodge of Masons. 

Allen died at his home on Maple Avenue following a long illness.  Two years before his death, he was forced to give up his business and was confined to bed.  He was survived by his wife Emma and two brothers who lived in Pine Meadow. 

The funeral was held at both his home and Trinity Church.  Reverend Daniel Waugh officiated. 

Alfred Allen is buried in the Village Cemetery, Collinsville. 

“Your Silent Neighbors” introduces readers to people out of Canton’s past.  Readers are encouraged to visit these gravesites and pay their respects to the people who have helped make our community what it is today.