The capture of Fort Ticonderoga in May 1775 served as a definitive moment for Ethan Allen, positioning him as a central figure in the American Revolutionary War. Born in Litchfield in 1738, he balanced a life as a farmer, writer, and politician, ultimately shaping the foundation and governance of the territory that would become Vermont.
Early Ventures and Industrial Interests
Before his political ascent, Allen pursued diverse commercial endeavors. In 1762, he became a part owner of an iron furnace located in Salisbury. His business portfolio eventually included agricultural operations and land speculation. Alongside his brothers, he acquired vast tracts of land that were later developed into the city of Burlington. His initial foray into business was marked by financial strain, necessitating the sale of property in Cornwall and his interests in the Salisbury iron works by 1765.
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During the late 1760s, Allen shifted his focus to the New Hampshire Grants. After purchasing land in the region, he became embroiled in complex legal disputes regarding land rights claimed by New York. To protect these interests, he formed the Green Mountain Boys, utilizing intimidation and property destruction against New York settlers to maintain control over the territory. This militant resistance defined his role in the development of the region.
Military Service and Political Negotiations
Allen's military leadership was punctuated by the seizure of Fort Ticonderoga and a subsequent failed expedition against Montreal in September 1775, which led to his capture by the British. Following his release in a 1778 prisoner exchange, he returned to the New Hampshire Grants, which had declared independence a year earlier. He spent his later years lobbying Congress for Vermont's recognition and engaging in controversial negotiations with the British to consider the territory a separate province.
Literary and Philosophical Contributions
Beyond his military and political activities, Allen established himself as a writer and philosopher. Influenced by his association with doctor Thomas Young, he became a proponent of Deism. He authored documents regarding the political formation of Vermont and published a philosophical treatise titled Reason: the Only Oracle of Man, which expanded upon early manuscripts he had worked on with Young during the 1760s.
Fast facts
- Born: 1738, Litchfield
- Died: 1789, Burlington
- Military Rank: General
- Burial Site: Greenmount Cemetery
- Children: Eight
- Citizenship: United States
- Primary Occupations: Farmer, politician, philosopher, writer
Questions readers ask
What were Ethan Allen's primary business activities?
He was involved in farming, land speculation, and owned an iron furnace in Salisbury.
What was his role in the Revolutionary War?
He led the Green Mountain Boys and captured Fort Ticonderoga in May 1775 before being captured during an attempt on Montreal.
