"Confederate Soldiers From Chambers County, Alabama and Thereabouts", edited by Carl Summers, Jr., 1993:
61st Alabama Infantry Regiment - Company F.
This muster list was transcribed by William Davidson and was published in this book, "Word From Camp Pollard". It is the muster roll of the original company and covers the period August 31, 1863 to October 31, 1863, and is the first payroll after enlistment. Among the officers of the company is 1st Lt. Richard W. Allen.
AND.....
From "Word From Camp Pollard", by William H. Davidson, 1978, pages 297 & 299:
General Robert E. Lee surrendered his Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox Court House April 9, 1865. His men stacked muskets for the last time on April 12 at a designated place.
Captain Augustus B. Fannin, Jr., there surrendered his command of 42 men of the 61st Alabama Infantry Regiment Volunteers, as they laid down arms and accoutrements and accepted parole.
Of the original muster of volunteers enlisting from Chambers County, Alabama, in Company "F", only First Lieutenant RICHARD W. ALLEN, Sergeant George W. Hart and Private Warren H. Dean were present...
==========
"The LaFayette Sun" - January 19, 1898:
Death of Mr. R. W. Allen.
In the death of Mr. R. W. Allen, which occurred at his home in this place last Thursday afternoon, LaFayette lost one of her oldest, most highly respected and most capable citizens and businessmen. Mr. Allen was identified with LaFayette for about fifty years, and, though not an enthusiast by any means, yet he was discreet, prudent and cautious. His methods of business were successful, for he accumulated quite a fortune. In his last illness he suffered much, but his faith sustained him. He was a faithful member of the Methodist church, and his charities dispensed through the church did good for his fellows. The funeral of Mr. Allen was held from his late residence and the services were conducted by his pastor, Dr. Armstrong. The friends and relatives of deceased have the sympathy of many, and while they will miss him, yet they have hope of meeting him again.
The following gentlemen were pall bearers: G. H. Black, J. C. Griffin, George Chatfield, T. H. Grimmett, J. G. Andrews, L. S. Schuessler, A. D. Moore.
In Loving Memory.
Departed this life at his home in LaFayette, on Thursday the 13th instant, Mr. R. W. Allen, one of the oldest, most highly respected and wealthiest citizens of our town, in the seventy-sixth year of his age.
He was blessed with a long and useful life, having passed the three score and ten given to man to live on earth.
The writer, then a boy at school, remembers well, when Mr. Allen came to LaFayette to live, about fifty years ago. He began a mercantile career, and has pursued it ever since with eminent success. He was also a successful farmer on a large scale.
For half a century his fortunes had been closely linked with those of LaFayette. He had known it in prosperity and adversity – had witnessed the many changes with time and war had wrought, and always loved it with an abiding affection.
His walk in life was an unusually correct and consistent one, singularly free from the vices common to man. He went in and out among the people, pursuing the even tenor of his way, with an approving smile for all that was good, and a frown for the evil.
He was a member of the Methodist church since his youth. He loved his church, and was one of the strongest pillars through life.
He possessed an unusually strong constitution, and was almost a stranger to disease and pain until a few months ago, when the dread malady, which took his life, laid its relentless hand upon him. Everything was done possible to stay its ravages, but in vain. Each day marked a further advance towards the vital point, ‘till at last he passed away in his home, surrounded by those he loved and were dear to him.
To die at home as he did? How few realize what a blessing, what a very great blessing it is.
Perhaps, no man had greater reason to want to live on longer in this life than he, and yet no one could have been better situated to meet death, with full resignation, both as to himself and the dear ones left behind, so well and happily provided for.
He expressed himself as desiring a longer lease of life, thinking he could enjoy it, and make it more useful, but at the same time, said, if the summons must come, "I am ready."
What a world of meaning is couched in these few words, and how much is comprehended, can be most fitly assured by saying, were he penniless, he yet possessed uncounted riches.
And now he has gone away from all of us, gone to return no more. His face and figure, so long familiar at his home, at his place of business, at his church and upon the public streets will be missed henceforth. There are many who have long leaned upon (him) for help, who will miss him, and mourn his loss.
We all must go as he has gone. This we know, and yet how amazing, how startling is our indifference!
He was a Confederate soldier, of which he was proud, and ever loved to speak, as a heritage to his posterity. He served in the immortal army of Northern Virginia.
As we bore his mortal remains through the portals of his beautiful home, I saw that some of the ancient oaks that grew around it were decaying to their fall, so strikingly coincident with the sturdy life that had just gone out, and I was again forcibly reminded of the transitory nature of all things animate and inanimate.
We laid him away in the silent city of the dead, in plain view of his home, where he had lived so long – dust to dust, ashes to ashes.
With each returning spring time, the flowers will bloom, and the grass around his grave put on new verdure, then wither again, but his immortal spirit has blossomed into a new and better life, undying and eternal.
A long time friend, R.
The Bank of LaFayette.
The board of directors of this banking institution met last night in the offices of the Bank. Owing to the death of the President, Mr. R. W. Allen, a new President was elected. Mr. L. S. Schuessler was honored with the position. Mr. W. B. Wood was elected a member of the Board. Mr. J. C. Griffin was re-elected Cashier and Mr. J. G. Andrews assistant. Mr. Roby Buckalew also remains with the bank. For ten years this Institution has been in operation and it has been successful. Owing to wise management many obstacles have been overcome and it today ranks among the best and safest institutions in the State. The board of directors passed suitable resolutions in memory of the deceased president.
==========
About The Allen House, also known as the Jemison House.
"The LaFayette Sun" - November 20, 1918:
Jemison Home Destroyed by Fire.
The Jemison home on Magnolia Avenue was destroyed by fire last Friday night. The fire was discovered about 12 o'clock and had gained such headway as to be beyond control when the volunteer firemen reached the scene. The fire started in the left wing of the building and, being fanned by a stiff wind, burned rapidly. Sparks and burning pieces
of wood were carried hundreds of feet by the wind, and other buildings were threatened. This splendid old mansion was one of the landmarks of LaFayette, having been built before the Civil War. For many years it was the home of the late R. W. Allen, but in recent years it was occupied during the summer months by the Jemison family. Mr. Allen Jemison, of Birmingham, was here on a visit and occupying one of the rooms of the building the night of the fire and had a narrow escape, as he did not know that the house was on fire until someone ran into the room and awakened him. The loss was partially covered by insurance.
==========
1850 Chambers County, (Dist. 19) AL Census:
#H1603
Goodrich Driver 61M Tavern Keeper R$4,750 (21-Slaves, 4-runaways) Born NC
Elizabeth Driver 60F Born VA
Betty A. Driver 19F Born GA
Jane Driver 17F Born GA
Sophronia Driver 12F Born AL
Milton Andrews 28M Attorney at Law Born CT
Elizabeth Andrews 28F Born GA
James J. James 25M Bar Keeper Born GA
William H Hunter 30M Postmaste Born SC
WESLEY ALLEN 25M Clerk Born GA
Alpheus Bull 20M Clerk Born GA
Frederick Dickerson 25M Clerk Born GA
William Richer 32M Tailor born England
==========
1870 Chambers County, (LaFayette) AL Census:
#H29
R. W. Allen 48M Dry Good Merchant R$2,000 P$3,500 Born GA
Elizabeth H. Allen 44F Housekeeping R$2,000 P$1,000 Born GA
Artemesia Allen 8F At School born AL
==========
1880 Chambers County, (LaFayette) AL Census:
#H126
R. W. Allen 58M Dry Goods Merchant Born GA
E. H. Allen 54F Wife Born GA
A. M. Allen 18F Daughter Born AL
M. J. Jackson 21F Niece Born AL
Nannie Wilson 15F Servant Born AL
61st Alabama Infantry Regiment - Company F.
This muster list was transcribed by William Davidson and was published in this book, "Word From Camp Pollard". It is the muster roll of the original company and covers the period August 31, 1863 to October 31, 1863, and is the first payroll after enlistment. Among the officers of the company is 1st Lt. Richard W. Allen.
AND.....
From "Word From Camp Pollard", by William H. Davidson, 1978, pages 297 & 299:
General Robert E. Lee surrendered his Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox Court House April 9, 1865. His men stacked muskets for the last time on April 12 at a designated place.
Captain Augustus B. Fannin, Jr., there surrendered his command of 42 men of the 61st Alabama Infantry Regiment Volunteers, as they laid down arms and accoutrements and accepted parole.
Of the original muster of volunteers enlisting from Chambers County, Alabama, in Company "F", only First Lieutenant RICHARD W. ALLEN, Sergeant George W. Hart and Private Warren H. Dean were present...
==========
"The LaFayette Sun" - January 19, 1898:
Death of Mr. R. W. Allen.
In the death of Mr. R. W. Allen, which occurred at his home in this place last Thursday afternoon, LaFayette lost one of her oldest, most highly respected and most capable citizens and businessmen. Mr. Allen was identified with LaFayette for about fifty years, and, though not an enthusiast by any means, yet he was discreet, prudent and cautious. His methods of business were successful, for he accumulated quite a fortune. In his last illness he suffered much, but his faith sustained him. He was a faithful member of the Methodist church, and his charities dispensed through the church did good for his fellows. The funeral of Mr. Allen was held from his late residence and the services were conducted by his pastor, Dr. Armstrong. The friends and relatives of deceased have the sympathy of many, and while they will miss him, yet they have hope of meeting him again.
The following gentlemen were pall bearers: G. H. Black, J. C. Griffin, George Chatfield, T. H. Grimmett, J. G. Andrews, L. S. Schuessler, A. D. Moore.
In Loving Memory.
Departed this life at his home in LaFayette, on Thursday the 13th instant, Mr. R. W. Allen, one of the oldest, most highly respected and wealthiest citizens of our town, in the seventy-sixth year of his age.
He was blessed with a long and useful life, having passed the three score and ten given to man to live on earth.
The writer, then a boy at school, remembers well, when Mr. Allen came to LaFayette to live, about fifty years ago. He began a mercantile career, and has pursued it ever since with eminent success. He was also a successful farmer on a large scale.
For half a century his fortunes had been closely linked with those of LaFayette. He had known it in prosperity and adversity – had witnessed the many changes with time and war had wrought, and always loved it with an abiding affection.
His walk in life was an unusually correct and consistent one, singularly free from the vices common to man. He went in and out among the people, pursuing the even tenor of his way, with an approving smile for all that was good, and a frown for the evil.
He was a member of the Methodist church since his youth. He loved his church, and was one of the strongest pillars through life.
He possessed an unusually strong constitution, and was almost a stranger to disease and pain until a few months ago, when the dread malady, which took his life, laid its relentless hand upon him. Everything was done possible to stay its ravages, but in vain. Each day marked a further advance towards the vital point, ‘till at last he passed away in his home, surrounded by those he loved and were dear to him.
To die at home as he did? How few realize what a blessing, what a very great blessing it is.
Perhaps, no man had greater reason to want to live on longer in this life than he, and yet no one could have been better situated to meet death, with full resignation, both as to himself and the dear ones left behind, so well and happily provided for.
He expressed himself as desiring a longer lease of life, thinking he could enjoy it, and make it more useful, but at the same time, said, if the summons must come, "I am ready."
What a world of meaning is couched in these few words, and how much is comprehended, can be most fitly assured by saying, were he penniless, he yet possessed uncounted riches.
And now he has gone away from all of us, gone to return no more. His face and figure, so long familiar at his home, at his place of business, at his church and upon the public streets will be missed henceforth. There are many who have long leaned upon (him) for help, who will miss him, and mourn his loss.
We all must go as he has gone. This we know, and yet how amazing, how startling is our indifference!
He was a Confederate soldier, of which he was proud, and ever loved to speak, as a heritage to his posterity. He served in the immortal army of Northern Virginia.
As we bore his mortal remains through the portals of his beautiful home, I saw that some of the ancient oaks that grew around it were decaying to their fall, so strikingly coincident with the sturdy life that had just gone out, and I was again forcibly reminded of the transitory nature of all things animate and inanimate.
We laid him away in the silent city of the dead, in plain view of his home, where he had lived so long – dust to dust, ashes to ashes.
With each returning spring time, the flowers will bloom, and the grass around his grave put on new verdure, then wither again, but his immortal spirit has blossomed into a new and better life, undying and eternal.
A long time friend, R.
The Bank of LaFayette.
The board of directors of this banking institution met last night in the offices of the Bank. Owing to the death of the President, Mr. R. W. Allen, a new President was elected. Mr. L. S. Schuessler was honored with the position. Mr. W. B. Wood was elected a member of the Board. Mr. J. C. Griffin was re-elected Cashier and Mr. J. G. Andrews assistant. Mr. Roby Buckalew also remains with the bank. For ten years this Institution has been in operation and it has been successful. Owing to wise management many obstacles have been overcome and it today ranks among the best and safest institutions in the State. The board of directors passed suitable resolutions in memory of the deceased president.
==========
About The Allen House, also known as the Jemison House.
"The LaFayette Sun" - November 20, 1918:
Jemison Home Destroyed by Fire.
The Jemison home on Magnolia Avenue was destroyed by fire last Friday night. The fire was discovered about 12 o'clock and had gained such headway as to be beyond control when the volunteer firemen reached the scene. The fire started in the left wing of the building and, being fanned by a stiff wind, burned rapidly. Sparks and burning pieces
of wood were carried hundreds of feet by the wind, and other buildings were threatened. This splendid old mansion was one of the landmarks of LaFayette, having been built before the Civil War. For many years it was the home of the late R. W. Allen, but in recent years it was occupied during the summer months by the Jemison family. Mr. Allen Jemison, of Birmingham, was here on a visit and occupying one of the rooms of the building the night of the fire and had a narrow escape, as he did not know that the house was on fire until someone ran into the room and awakened him. The loss was partially covered by insurance.
==========
1850 Chambers County, (Dist. 19) AL Census:
#H1603
Goodrich Driver 61M Tavern Keeper R$4,750 (21-Slaves, 4-runaways) Born NC
Elizabeth Driver 60F Born VA
Betty A. Driver 19F Born GA
Jane Driver 17F Born GA
Sophronia Driver 12F Born AL
Milton Andrews 28M Attorney at Law Born CT
Elizabeth Andrews 28F Born GA
James J. James 25M Bar Keeper Born GA
William H Hunter 30M Postmaste Born SC
WESLEY ALLEN 25M Clerk Born GA
Alpheus Bull 20M Clerk Born GA
Frederick Dickerson 25M Clerk Born GA
William Richer 32M Tailor born England
==========
1870 Chambers County, (LaFayette) AL Census:
#H29
R. W. Allen 48M Dry Good Merchant R$2,000 P$3,500 Born GA
Elizabeth H. Allen 44F Housekeeping R$2,000 P$1,000 Born GA
Artemesia Allen 8F At School born AL
==========
1880 Chambers County, (LaFayette) AL Census:
#H126
R. W. Allen 58M Dry Goods Merchant Born GA
E. H. Allen 54F Wife Born GA
A. M. Allen 18F Daughter Born AL
M. J. Jackson 21F Niece Born AL
Nannie Wilson 15F Servant Born AL
"Confederate Soldiers From Chambers County, Alabama and Thereabouts", edited by Carl Summers, Jr., 1993:
61st Alabama Infantry Regiment - Company F.
This muster list was transcribed by William Davidson and was published in this book, "Word From Camp Pollard". It is the muster roll of the original company and covers the period August 31, 1863 to October 31, 1863, and is the first payroll after enlistment. Among the officers of the company is 1st Lt. Richard W. Allen.
AND.....
From "Word From Camp Pollard", by William H. Davidson, 1978, pages 297 & 299:
General Robert E. Lee surrendered his Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox Court House April 9, 1865. His men stacked muskets for the last time on April 12 at a designated place.
Captain Augustus B. Fannin, Jr., there surrendered his command of 42 men of the 61st Alabama Infantry Regiment Volunteers, as they laid down arms and accoutrements and accepted parole.
Of the original muster of volunteers enlisting from Chambers County, Alabama, in Company "F", only First Lieutenant RICHARD W. ALLEN, Sergeant George W. Hart and Private Warren H. Dean were present...
==========
"The LaFayette Sun" - January 19, 1898:
Death of Mr. R. W. Allen.
In the death of Mr. R. W. Allen, which occurred at his home in this place last Thursday afternoon, LaFayette lost one of her oldest, most highly respected and most capable citizens and businessmen. Mr. Allen was identified with LaFayette for about fifty years, and, though not an enthusiast by any means, yet he was discreet, prudent and cautious. His methods of business were successful, for he accumulated quite a fortune. In his last illness he suffered much, but his faith sustained him. He was a faithful member of the Methodist church, and his charities dispensed through the church did good for his fellows. The funeral of Mr. Allen was held from his late residence and the services were conducted by his pastor, Dr. Armstrong. The friends and relatives of deceased have the sympathy of many, and while they will miss him, yet they have hope of meeting him again.
The following gentlemen were pall bearers: G. H. Black, J. C. Griffin, George Chatfield, T. H. Grimmett, J. G. Andrews, L. S. Schuessler, A. D. Moore.
In Loving Memory.
Departed this life at his home in LaFayette, on Thursday the 13th instant, Mr. R. W. Allen, one of the oldest, most highly respected and wealthiest citizens of our town, in the seventy-sixth year of his age.
He was blessed with a long and useful life, having passed the three score and ten given to man to live on earth.
The writer, then a boy at school, remembers well, when Mr. Allen came to LaFayette to live, about fifty years ago. He began a mercantile career, and has pursued it ever since with eminent success. He was also a successful farmer on a large scale.
For half a century his fortunes had been closely linked with those of LaFayette. He had known it in prosperity and adversity – had witnessed the many changes with time and war had wrought, and always loved it with an abiding affection.
His walk in life was an unusually correct and consistent one, singularly free from the vices common to man. He went in and out among the people, pursuing the even tenor of his way, with an approving smile for all that was good, and a frown for the evil.
He was a member of the Methodist church since his youth. He loved his church, and was one of the strongest pillars through life.
He possessed an unusually strong constitution, and was almost a stranger to disease and pain until a few months ago, when the dread malady, which took his life, laid its relentless hand upon him. Everything was done possible to stay its ravages, but in vain. Each day marked a further advance towards the vital point, ‘till at last he passed away in his home, surrounded by those he loved and were dear to him.
To die at home as he did? How few realize what a blessing, what a very great blessing it is.
Perhaps, no man had greater reason to want to live on longer in this life than he, and yet no one could have been better situated to meet death, with full resignation, both as to himself and the dear ones left behind, so well and happily provided for.
He expressed himself as desiring a longer lease of life, thinking he could enjoy it, and make it more useful, but at the same time, said, if the summons must come, "I am ready."
What a world of meaning is couched in these few words, and how much is comprehended, can be most fitly assured by saying, were he penniless, he yet possessed uncounted riches.
And now he has gone away from all of us, gone to return no more. His face and figure, so long familiar at his home, at his place of business, at his church and upon the public streets will be missed henceforth. There are many who have long leaned upon (him) for help, who will miss him, and mourn his loss.
We all must go as he has gone. This we know, and yet how amazing, how startling is our indifference!
He was a Confederate soldier, of which he was proud, and ever loved to speak, as a heritage to his posterity. He served in the immortal army of Northern Virginia.
As we bore his mortal remains through the portals of his beautiful home, I saw that some of the ancient oaks that grew around it were decaying to their fall, so strikingly coincident with the sturdy life that had just gone out, and I was again forcibly reminded of the transitory nature of all things animate and inanimate.
We laid him away in the silent city of the dead, in plain view of his home, where he had lived so long – dust to dust, ashes to ashes.
With each returning spring time, the flowers will bloom, and the grass around his grave put on new verdure, then wither again, but his immortal spirit has blossomed into a new and better life, undying and eternal.
A long time friend, R.
The Bank of LaFayette.
The board of directors of this banking institution met last night in the offices of the Bank. Owing to the death of the President, Mr. R. W. Allen, a new President was elected. Mr. L. S. Schuessler was honored with the position. Mr. W. B. Wood was elected a member of the Board. Mr. J. C. Griffin was re-elected Cashier and Mr. J. G. Andrews assistant. Mr. Roby Buckalew also remains with the bank. For ten years this Institution has been in operation and it has been successful. Owing to wise management many obstacles have been overcome and it today ranks among the best and safest institutions in the State. The board of directors passed suitable resolutions in memory of the deceased president.
==========
About The Allen House, also known as the Jemison House.
"The LaFayette Sun" - November 20, 1918:
Jemison Home Destroyed by Fire.
The Jemison home on Magnolia Avenue was destroyed by fire last Friday night. The fire was discovered about 12 o'clock and had gained such headway as to be beyond control when the volunteer firemen reached the scene. The fire started in the left wing of the building and, being fanned by a stiff wind, burned rapidly. Sparks and burning pieces
of wood were carried hundreds of feet by the wind, and other buildings were threatened. This splendid old mansion was one of the landmarks of LaFayette, having been built before the Civil War. For many years it was the home of the late R. W. Allen, but in recent years it was occupied during the summer months by the Jemison family. Mr. Allen Jemison, of Birmingham, was here on a visit and occupying one of the rooms of the building the night of the fire and had a narrow escape, as he did not know that the house was on fire until someone ran into the room and awakened him. The loss was partially covered by insurance.
==========
1850 Chambers County, (Dist. 19) AL Census:
#H1603
Goodrich Driver 61M Tavern Keeper R$4,750 (21-Slaves, 4-runaways) Born NC
Elizabeth Driver 60F Born VA
Betty A. Driver 19F Born GA
Jane Driver 17F Born GA
Sophronia Driver 12F Born AL
Milton Andrews 28M Attorney at Law Born CT
Elizabeth Andrews 28F Born GA
James J. James 25M Bar Keeper Born GA
William H Hunter 30M Postmaste Born SC
WESLEY ALLEN 25M Clerk Born GA
Alpheus Bull 20M Clerk Born GA
Frederick Dickerson 25M Clerk Born GA
William Richer 32M Tailor born England
==========
1870 Chambers County, (LaFayette) AL Census:
#H29
R. W. Allen 48M Dry Good Merchant R$2,000 P$3,500 Born GA
Elizabeth H. Allen 44F Housekeeping R$2,000 P$1,000 Born GA
Artemesia Allen 8F At School born AL
==========
1880 Chambers County, (LaFayette) AL Census:
#H126
R. W. Allen 58M Dry Goods Merchant Born GA
E. H. Allen 54F Wife Born GA
A. M. Allen 18F Daughter Born AL
M. J. Jackson 21F Niece Born AL
Nannie Wilson 15F Servant Born AL
61st Alabama Infantry Regiment - Company F.
This muster list was transcribed by William Davidson and was published in this book, "Word From Camp Pollard". It is the muster roll of the original company and covers the period August 31, 1863 to October 31, 1863, and is the first payroll after enlistment. Among the officers of the company is 1st Lt. Richard W. Allen.
AND.....
From "Word From Camp Pollard", by William H. Davidson, 1978, pages 297 & 299:
General Robert E. Lee surrendered his Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox Court House April 9, 1865. His men stacked muskets for the last time on April 12 at a designated place.
Captain Augustus B. Fannin, Jr., there surrendered his command of 42 men of the 61st Alabama Infantry Regiment Volunteers, as they laid down arms and accoutrements and accepted parole.
Of the original muster of volunteers enlisting from Chambers County, Alabama, in Company "F", only First Lieutenant RICHARD W. ALLEN, Sergeant George W. Hart and Private Warren H. Dean were present...
==========
"The LaFayette Sun" - January 19, 1898:
Death of Mr. R. W. Allen.
In the death of Mr. R. W. Allen, which occurred at his home in this place last Thursday afternoon, LaFayette lost one of her oldest, most highly respected and most capable citizens and businessmen. Mr. Allen was identified with LaFayette for about fifty years, and, though not an enthusiast by any means, yet he was discreet, prudent and cautious. His methods of business were successful, for he accumulated quite a fortune. In his last illness he suffered much, but his faith sustained him. He was a faithful member of the Methodist church, and his charities dispensed through the church did good for his fellows. The funeral of Mr. Allen was held from his late residence and the services were conducted by his pastor, Dr. Armstrong. The friends and relatives of deceased have the sympathy of many, and while they will miss him, yet they have hope of meeting him again.
The following gentlemen were pall bearers: G. H. Black, J. C. Griffin, George Chatfield, T. H. Grimmett, J. G. Andrews, L. S. Schuessler, A. D. Moore.
In Loving Memory.
Departed this life at his home in LaFayette, on Thursday the 13th instant, Mr. R. W. Allen, one of the oldest, most highly respected and wealthiest citizens of our town, in the seventy-sixth year of his age.
He was blessed with a long and useful life, having passed the three score and ten given to man to live on earth.
The writer, then a boy at school, remembers well, when Mr. Allen came to LaFayette to live, about fifty years ago. He began a mercantile career, and has pursued it ever since with eminent success. He was also a successful farmer on a large scale.
For half a century his fortunes had been closely linked with those of LaFayette. He had known it in prosperity and adversity – had witnessed the many changes with time and war had wrought, and always loved it with an abiding affection.
His walk in life was an unusually correct and consistent one, singularly free from the vices common to man. He went in and out among the people, pursuing the even tenor of his way, with an approving smile for all that was good, and a frown for the evil.
He was a member of the Methodist church since his youth. He loved his church, and was one of the strongest pillars through life.
He possessed an unusually strong constitution, and was almost a stranger to disease and pain until a few months ago, when the dread malady, which took his life, laid its relentless hand upon him. Everything was done possible to stay its ravages, but in vain. Each day marked a further advance towards the vital point, ‘till at last he passed away in his home, surrounded by those he loved and were dear to him.
To die at home as he did? How few realize what a blessing, what a very great blessing it is.
Perhaps, no man had greater reason to want to live on longer in this life than he, and yet no one could have been better situated to meet death, with full resignation, both as to himself and the dear ones left behind, so well and happily provided for.
He expressed himself as desiring a longer lease of life, thinking he could enjoy it, and make it more useful, but at the same time, said, if the summons must come, "I am ready."
What a world of meaning is couched in these few words, and how much is comprehended, can be most fitly assured by saying, were he penniless, he yet possessed uncounted riches.
And now he has gone away from all of us, gone to return no more. His face and figure, so long familiar at his home, at his place of business, at his church and upon the public streets will be missed henceforth. There are many who have long leaned upon (him) for help, who will miss him, and mourn his loss.
We all must go as he has gone. This we know, and yet how amazing, how startling is our indifference!
He was a Confederate soldier, of which he was proud, and ever loved to speak, as a heritage to his posterity. He served in the immortal army of Northern Virginia.
As we bore his mortal remains through the portals of his beautiful home, I saw that some of the ancient oaks that grew around it were decaying to their fall, so strikingly coincident with the sturdy life that had just gone out, and I was again forcibly reminded of the transitory nature of all things animate and inanimate.
We laid him away in the silent city of the dead, in plain view of his home, where he had lived so long – dust to dust, ashes to ashes.
With each returning spring time, the flowers will bloom, and the grass around his grave put on new verdure, then wither again, but his immortal spirit has blossomed into a new and better life, undying and eternal.
A long time friend, R.
The Bank of LaFayette.
The board of directors of this banking institution met last night in the offices of the Bank. Owing to the death of the President, Mr. R. W. Allen, a new President was elected. Mr. L. S. Schuessler was honored with the position. Mr. W. B. Wood was elected a member of the Board. Mr. J. C. Griffin was re-elected Cashier and Mr. J. G. Andrews assistant. Mr. Roby Buckalew also remains with the bank. For ten years this Institution has been in operation and it has been successful. Owing to wise management many obstacles have been overcome and it today ranks among the best and safest institutions in the State. The board of directors passed suitable resolutions in memory of the deceased president.
==========
About The Allen House, also known as the Jemison House.
"The LaFayette Sun" - November 20, 1918:
Jemison Home Destroyed by Fire.
The Jemison home on Magnolia Avenue was destroyed by fire last Friday night. The fire was discovered about 12 o'clock and had gained such headway as to be beyond control when the volunteer firemen reached the scene. The fire started in the left wing of the building and, being fanned by a stiff wind, burned rapidly. Sparks and burning pieces
of wood were carried hundreds of feet by the wind, and other buildings were threatened. This splendid old mansion was one of the landmarks of LaFayette, having been built before the Civil War. For many years it was the home of the late R. W. Allen, but in recent years it was occupied during the summer months by the Jemison family. Mr. Allen Jemison, of Birmingham, was here on a visit and occupying one of the rooms of the building the night of the fire and had a narrow escape, as he did not know that the house was on fire until someone ran into the room and awakened him. The loss was partially covered by insurance.
==========
1850 Chambers County, (Dist. 19) AL Census:
#H1603
Goodrich Driver 61M Tavern Keeper R$4,750 (21-Slaves, 4-runaways) Born NC
Elizabeth Driver 60F Born VA
Betty A. Driver 19F Born GA
Jane Driver 17F Born GA
Sophronia Driver 12F Born AL
Milton Andrews 28M Attorney at Law Born CT
Elizabeth Andrews 28F Born GA
James J. James 25M Bar Keeper Born GA
William H Hunter 30M Postmaste Born SC
WESLEY ALLEN 25M Clerk Born GA
Alpheus Bull 20M Clerk Born GA
Frederick Dickerson 25M Clerk Born GA
William Richer 32M Tailor born England
==========
1870 Chambers County, (LaFayette) AL Census:
#H29
R. W. Allen 48M Dry Good Merchant R$2,000 P$3,500 Born GA
Elizabeth H. Allen 44F Housekeeping R$2,000 P$1,000 Born GA
Artemesia Allen 8F At School born AL
==========
1880 Chambers County, (LaFayette) AL Census:
#H126
R. W. Allen 58M Dry Goods Merchant Born GA
E. H. Allen 54F Wife Born GA
A. M. Allen 18F Daughter Born AL
M. J. Jackson 21F Niece Born AL
Nannie Wilson 15F Servant Born AL
Family Members
Siblings
Advertisement
Advertisement
