Benjamin Allen (Wisconsin politician)

For others of the same name, see Benjamin Allen.

Benjamin Allen (August 28, 1807 - July 5, 1873) served as a Union Army officer during the American Civil War, during which he was wounded during two major battles. Previously, from 1853-1854 he served in the Wisconsin State Senate and as district attorney of Pepin County, Wisconsin.

Biography

Allen was born on August 28, 1807 in Woodstock, Vermont. On March 2, 1834, he married Calista Dike. They would have five children before her death on June 6, 1842. Allen died on July 5, 1873.

Military career

During the American Civil War, Allen held command of the 16th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment of the Union Army with the rank of colonel. He was wounded in the arm during the Battle of Shiloh and later took part in the Siege of Corinth and the Siege of Vicksburg. Allen's son, Cyrus, was also an officer in the regiment. Previously, the elder Allen had been a colonel in the Vermont Militia.

Political career

Allen represented the 19th District in the Senate from 1853 to 1854. Additionally, he was District Attorney of Pepin County, Wisconsin and St. Croix County, Wisconsin. He was a Democrat.