Allan, Sir Hugh

(1810-1882). Founder of the Allan line of steamships. Came to Canada from Scotland, 1826, and in 1831 entered the shipbuilding firm of James Millar & Co., Montreal, of which he became a partner in 1835. In 1853 his firm began building iron screw steamships, and their first vessel, the Canadian, made its first voyage in 1855. The following year, with a fleet of four vessels, a regular service was opened between Canada and England, with fortnightly sailings. In 1859 the fleet was increased to eight steamers, and a weekly service opened. From these small beginnings, the Allan Line has risen to a foremost place in transatlantic transportation.

   Index: Md President of the Canadian Pacific Railway Co.--his agreement with American capitalists, 201-202; corrupt bargains with government, 202; denies charges, 205; Macdonald denies corrupt bargain, 207; Cartier's connection with, 207; his Company compelled to abandon railway project, 233. C His Company offers to build transcontinental railway, 53; asked to subscribe to Conservative election fund, 53; his indiscreet letters, 53. H President of Montreal Board of Trade, presides at public dinner to Joseph Howe, 138. D His connection with transcontinental railway project, 321. E His line secures mail subsidy, 115.

   See also Transportation; Molson, John; Cunard, Sir Samuel; Royal William.

   Bib.: Morgan, Cel. Can.; Dent, Can. Por.; Taylor, Brit. Am.; Canada: An Ency., vol. 3; Semi-Centennial Report of Montreal Board of Trade, 1893.