BLACKOUT COFFEE - SAVE 20% ON YOUR NEXT ORDER - PROMO CODE/ INSPIRED24
Ethan Allen: Revolutionary War Hero and Founding Father of Vermont
Ethan Allen (January 21, 1738 [O.S. January 10, 1737] – February 12, 1789) was a prominent American farmer, writer, military officer, and politician. Renowned as one of the founders of Vermont, he played a pivotal role in the capture of Fort Ticonderoga during the American Revolutionary War. Ethan Allen was also the brother of Ira Allen and the father of Fanny Allen.
Casey Adams
7/1/20242 min read
Early Life and Background
Birth: Ethan Allen was born on January 21, 1738 (Old Style date: January 10, 1737) in Litchfield, Connecticut.
Parents: His parents were Joseph Allen and Mary Baker.
Strict Upbringing: From an early age, Allen experienced a strict upbringing that shaped his character and values.
The New Hampshire Grants and the Albany Ejectment Trials
Move to Vermont: Allen relocated to the New Hampshire Grants (now Vermont) and became embroiled in a land dispute with New York authorities over ownership rights.
Albany Ejectment Trials: These legal proceedings resulted in the settlers losing their land rights. Determined to defend their homes, Allen and fellow settlers formed a militia group known as the Green Mountain Boys, with Allen as their leader.
Capture of Fort Ticonderoga
American Revolutionary War: When the war began, Connecticut hired the Green Mountain Boys to capture Fort Ticonderoga, a strategic stronghold held by the British.
Benedict Arnold’s Involvement: Allen and his forces were joined by Benedict Arnold, and on May 10, 1775, they successfully seized the fort, securing cannons and ammunition for the American cause.
Continental Army and Capture
Green Mountain Boys in the Continental Army: The Green Mountain Boys became a regiment within the Continental Army, but Seth Warner led them instead of Allen.
Invasion of Quebec: Allen volunteered for the Invasion of Quebec under General Richard Montgomery. Unfortunately, he was captured during the Battle of Montreal.
Prisoner of War: Allen remained a prisoner until 1778 when he was exchanged for a British officer.
Advocacy for Vermont Independence
Post-War Efforts: After his release, Allen continued working toward Vermont’s independence.
British Negotiations: He even conspired with British authorities to achieve this goal, but negotiations ultimately fell apart.
Vermont Statehood: In 1791, two years after Allen’s death, Congress recognized Vermont as the 14th state in the Union.
Legacy and Interesting Facts
Burial: Ethan Allen is buried in Greenmount Cemetery in Burlington, Vermont.
Published Work: In 1785, he authored the book “Reason: the Only Oracle of Man,” which criticized Christianity and the Bible.
Conclusion
Ethan Allen’s contributions as a military leader, statesman, and advocate for Vermont’s statehood remain significant in American history. His legacy endures as a symbol of resilience and determination during a pivotal era
