Mr. Allan received his education in Johnstone, Scotland, and then learned the patternmaker's trade, which he has ever since followed. In 1879 he came to the United States and settled in East Newark, N. J., whence he subsequently removed to Kearny, where he now resides. He is, and has been since his arrival in this country, actively and successfully engaged in business as a patternmaker and carpenter, and to his skill and enterprise are due many of the finer buildings of this section. His work gives evidence of great talent. He has superintended the erection of many important buildings, including one of the linen thread mills in Kearnv.

Mr. Allan has not only achieved success and prominence in business affairs, but has also taken an active interest in public life, and has filled several positions with characteristic energy and satisfaction. Before coming to America he served eight years in the volunteer army at Johnstone, Scotland, receiving an honorable discharge. He is an ardent Republican, a public spirited, energetic, and patriotic citizen, and for four years was a member of the Board of Education of Kearny, being President of that board two years. At the present time he is a member of the Board of Aldermen of Kearny, and is also a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is a member of the North Reformed Church of Newark, and in all the relations of life has achieved both success and honor.