Ethan Allen's Marriages: A Look at the Revolutionary War Hero's Personal Life
When we think of Ethan Allen, the fiery leader of the Green Mountain Boys and a pivotal figure in the American Revolution, we often picture him storming Fort Ticonderoga or leading daring raids against the British. But beyond his military prowess and unwavering dedication to Vermont's independence, Ethan Allen also had a personal life, including two marriages. So, the question arises: Who did Ethan Allen marry?
Ethan Allen's First Wife: Mary Brownson
Ethan Allen's first wife was Mary Brownson. They were married on February 9, 1761, in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Mary was the daughter of Captain Jeremiah Brownson and Patience Royce. Her family was well-established in the region, and her father was a respected figure. The marriage between Ethan and Mary was a significant union, marking the beginning of Allen's family life.
Together, Ethan and Mary had five children:
- Jeremiah Allen
- Joseph Brownson Allen
- Lucy Allen
- Mary Allen
- Frances Allen
Mary Brownson was married to Ethan Allen for nearly three decades. Tragically, she passed away in 1783, leaving Ethan a widower. Her death occurred during a period when Allen was deeply involved in securing Vermont's statehood and navigating the complex political landscape of the newly formed United States.
Ethan Allen's Second Wife: Fanny Brush
Several years after the death of his first wife, Ethan Allen married for a second time. His second wife was Fanny Brush. The couple was married on February 15, 1784, in Arlington, Vermont.
Fanny Brush was the daughter of a prominent landowner and businessman in Vermont. Her marriage to Ethan Allen brought together two families with influence in the young state. Fanny proved to be a capable and supportive partner to Ethan in his later years.
Ethan and Fanny also had children together:
- Ira Allen
- Ethan Allen Jr.
- Heber Allen
Fanny Brush outlived Ethan Allen, who passed away in 1789. She remained a prominent figure in Vermont society for many years after his death.
Conclusion
Therefore, to directly answer the question, Ethan Allen married two women in his lifetime: Mary Brownson and Fanny Brush. His first marriage to Mary Brownson produced five children, and his second marriage to Fanny Brush resulted in three more children. These unions provided Ethan Allen with a family and a personal life that complemented his celebrated public and military career.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ethan Allen's Marriages
How many times was Ethan Allen married?
Ethan Allen was married two times. His first wife was Mary Brownson, and his second wife was Fanny Brush.
Why did Ethan Allen marry Fanny Brush after Mary Brownson's death?
After the death of his first wife, Mary Brownson, in 1783, Ethan Allen eventually remarried in 1784. While personal reasons for remarriage are often private, it is common for individuals to seek companionship and a partner after the loss of a spouse, especially when raising a family.
When did Ethan Allen's wives live and die?
Mary Brownson was married to Ethan Allen from 1761 until her death in 1783. Fanny Brush married Ethan Allen in 1784 and outlived him when he died in 1789. Her exact death date is not as widely publicized as Mary's, but she lived on for many years after Ethan's passing.
