Creating Maine - Superintendent of Eastern Indians John Allan
John Allan was Superintendent of Eastern Indians during the Revolutionary War.
In this position, Allan was instrumental in maintaining peaceful relations with the Native American nations of modern Maine.
Additionally, he helped create that State’s northern border.
John Allan
Though he was raised by a wealthy Canadian family, John Allan was sent to Boston for his education.
When the Revolutionary War erupted, Allan’s time in Massachusetts gave him strong sympathies with the Patriots.
John had become a successful politician, even spending several years in the Nova Scotia House of Assembly.
However, he had spent so much time neglecting his duties (and spreading the word of rebellion) that he was removed from office and accused of treason.
Indian Agent
Allan decided to join the cause, and his knowledge of the Native American tribes in Maine made him a valuable asset for the Continental Congress.
Congress named John as Indian Agent for Maine and Nova Scotia.
He was unsuccessful in bringing them to fight with the Americans, but he was able to convince them to remain neutral during the hostilities.
Superintendent of Eastern Indians
Allan had great difficulties during this discussions with the Native Americans.
He was extremely poorly funded by Congress, who repeatedly denied his requests for more money.
Eventually, he submitted his resignation.
Unfortunately for him, he was doing a great job.
The Continental Congress rejected his resignation and instead gave him a promotion!
John was now the Superintendent of Eastern Indians.
Creating Maine
As a Colonel in the Massachusetts Militia, John Allan served in several battles in modern Maine.
By the time the Revolutionary War came to a close, he officially resigned as Superintendent and Colonel.
He continued working in the area, however, and was instrumental in settling the border dispute between the United States and Nova Scotia.
Allan’s last major role in Founding the nation was helping to create the northern tip of the Atlantic Coast of the United States.
I have written several articles about MAINE in the AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
Here are a few of my favorites:
Samuel Thompson’s War - Maine Enters the Revolution
The Burning of Falmouth - Mowat’s Revenge
Jeremiah O’Brien Commands the Battle of Machias
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