Ira Allen: A Biography

by J. Kevin Graffagnino

Land speculator, revolutionary, pamphleteer, politician, and empire builder, Ira Allen was a key figure on the Green Mountain frontier. In a remarkable Vermont pioneer generation that included such noteworthy leaders as Ethan Allen, Thomas Chittenden, Moses Robinson, Isaac Tichenor, and Stephen Row Bradley, Allen stood out for his extraordinary energy, vision, and accomplishments. Allen helped create and sustain the independent State of Vermont; held such important state offices as treasurer, surveyor general, and member of the Governor’s Council; published hundreds of pages defending Vermont against a host of internal and external enemies; and represented Vermont in negotiations with the British Empire, other American states, and Congress. J. Kevin Graffagnino’s biography ably details Ira Allen’s extraordinary life. As the first published examination of Allen’s career in nearly a century, this book shines new light on Allen and his prominent role in Vermont’s formative decades.

324 pages, Paperback

Published September 10, 2024

Reviews

[JC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a part time docent at the Ethan Allen Homestead so this book was invaluable. The youngest brother of the Allen family, he founded the University of Vermont. He also had a saw mill business and was excellent in land speculation. (sometime dubious claims and tactics)

[Vincent Vanluvender · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent research and Engaging writing

I Would definitely recommend this book. The author provides us with the much needed facts and history of Ira Allen.