Early New England Stonecutters–George Allen Sr.

George Allen Sr. (1696-1774) was described as a “New England Master of Gravestone Carving.” Allen lived and worked in Rehoboth, Massachusetts and is buried in the Newman Cemetery about a mile south of where he lived. Many of his carvings featured friendly faces with sweeping wings–quite similar to the John Stevens Shop of Newport, Rhode Island. Allen’s son Gabriel and George Jr. continued the business after his death.

George Allen Sr., carved by his son

“Here rests the body of Mr. George Allen, a native of Sherburn in Great Britain, who died Jan. 20th, A. D. 1774, aged 78 years. His ingenuity & application to study were such, that in early life he made uncommon advances in the principal branches of Literature, & at the age of 17 was employed as a writing master in his native town. At the age of 21 he arrived at Boston, where he opened a school for the instruction of youth, in which occupation (in that & other towns) he spent the Prime of his life; his latter research was better calculated for the promotion of science, than for the advancement of his private interest. His friendly disposition and moderation were conspicuous to all who knew him.”