Allen, Thomas M., 1797-1871.

Minister, attorney.

Thomas Allen, a native of Virginia and a veteran of the War of 1812, studied law at Transylvania University and became a successful attorney in Lexington, then later in Bloomington, Ind. Influenced by Barton W. Stone, Allen abandoned his law practice, was baptized into the Disciples of Christ, and returned to Kentucky, where he was ordained in 1825. He became a prominent minister in Fayette County and founded churches in Bourbon and Harrison Counties. In 1836, Allen moved to Boone County, Missouri, where, in addition to promoting the church, he devoted himself to furthering educational opportunities. He was influential in raising money to establish the University of Missouri in 1839 and later served on its board of curators, including three terms as president. Allen was also one of the founders of Christian Female College in Missouri.