Richard Allen (Texas politician) facts for kids

Richard Allen (born June 10, 1830 – died May 16, 1909) was an important person in Texas history. He started as a carpenter and businessman. After the Civil War, he became a Republican politician in Texas.

Allen was elected to the Texas House of Representatives two times. In 1878, he made history as the first African American in Texas to run for a statewide office. He ran for lieutenant governor, but he did not win.

Richard Allen's Early Life

Richard Allen was born into slavery in Richmond, Virginia. This was in 1830. When he was a child, in 1837, his owner moved him to Texas. Even while he was enslaved, Allen became known as a very skilled carpenter.

What Did Richard Allen Do?

After the Civil War ended, enslaved people became free. This is called emancipation. Richard Allen then started his own business as a contractor. A contractor is someone who manages building projects.

Building Projects and Public Service

Allen built a large house for Joseph R. Morris, who was the Mayor of Houston. He also built one of the first bridges over Buffalo Bayou.

In 1867, Allen began working for the Freedmen's Bureau. This was a government group that helped newly freed enslaved people.

Richard Allen's Political Career

Richard Allen joined the Republican Party. In 1868, he won a seat in the Texas Legislature. He represented Harris and Montgomery counties. He served in the Twelfth Legislature in 1869.

He was elected again to the Thirteenth Texas Legislature. However, the election results were challenged. The legislature, which was becoming more Democratic, decided to give his seat to his Democratic opponent, Gustave Cook.

As a politician, Allen worked to make public education better. He also wanted to create state pensions for Civil War veterans. Pensions are regular payments given to people after they retire or serve. He was part of the Texas House Roads and Bridges Committee.

In 1870, Allen thought about running for the United States House of Representatives. But he decided not to continue his campaign.

Business Ventures and Later Politics

In 1870, Richard Allen helped start the Bayou City Bank in Houston. In 1872, he won a contract to pave streets in Houston.

In 1878, Allen ran for lieutenant governor. He did not win, but this was a very important moment. He was the first African American in Texas to run for a statewide office.

After leaving the legislature, he stayed active in the Republican Party. He attended state and national meetings as a delegate for more than 25 years, until 1896. Allen also served as a quartermaster in the Texas militia. He also worked as a US customs officer in Houston. This was a federal job given to him by a Republican president.

Richard Allen's Family Life

Richard Allen was married and had five children. He was a Baptist and was very involved in his church. He also participated in local community groups.

When Did Richard Allen Die?

Richard Allen passed away in 1909. He was buried at the Olivewood Cemetery in Houston.

See also

• History of African Americans in Houston