The McAllister family operated a manufactory that produced whips, eyeglasses, optical instruments, and mathematical instruments in Philadelphia during the 19th century. John McAllister (1753-1830) was a native of Scotland who moved to New York City in 1775 and then to Philadelphia in 1781. He began business as a whip maker at 16 South Third Street, Philadelphia, in 1796 and eventually partnered with a Mr. Mathews. On his 1803 trade label, he advertised "Spectacles, Hardware in general, also Whips and Canes, of every Description, made and Sold by ...." McAllister's son, John (1786-1878), graduated with a degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1803 and began work for merchants Montgomery and Newbold. When Mr. Mathews left John McAllister Sr., John Jr. joined the firm; at that time it was renamed John McAllister & Son. After the death of John Sr., in 1830, John McAllister Jr. continued the business under the name of McAllister & Co. Later, his son, William, who continued the business into the 1880s, joined him. Other members of the McAllister family include Elizabeth, possibly the wife of John Sr., and Agnes Y., who was apparently involved in charity education.
From the description of Papers, 1803-1935, bulk 1830-1890. (Winterthur Library). WorldCat record id: 261228838
