Obituaries Australia

The death occurred early yesterday morning at the residence of his son, Upper Macedon, of Mr Richard Allen, head of Richard Allen and Sons (1919) Pty Ltd, softgoods merchants, of Flinders lane. Mr Allen, who would have celebrated his 87th birthday next month was born in County Sligo, Ireland. He served his apprenticeship in the softgoods business with the firm of Joseph Lyons, of Sligo. He came to Australia at an early age, and, after having gained colonial experience, he returned to Ireland and obtained several agencies, some of which his firm still retains. Upon his return to Australia, 49 years ago, he began business in Bourke Street as a general agent. Later Mr Allen accepted a position as traveller to the firm of McArthur, Sherrard and Copland, after which he became manager for Sargood, Son, and Company. He established his own business in Flinders lane in 1880. As head of the business he spent 64 years of his life in Flinders lane. He took a keen interest in his work until a few weeks before his death. His two sons, Messrs S. A. and H. G. Allen, are co-directors of the firm. For many years Mr Allen was a director of the Eagle Star, and British Dominions Insurance Company.

Mr Allen was a supporter of the Young Men’s Christian Association, and he was largely instrumental in raising the money for the new building. He was elected to the City Council as a representative of the Latrobe Ward in 1907, and he remained on the council until 1922, when he resigned because of advancing years. His hobby was archery, and his club met regularly at his private residence, Kooyong, Gladstone parade, Elsternwick.

Mr Allen married a daughter of the Rev. A. K. Henderson, a former minister of the Collins Street Congregational Church. He had been a widower for many years. His daughter is Mrs. C. Smibert.