It was the summer of 1939 that Jimmy Allen and Elise Ford met, fell in love, and wanted to be married. Elise F. and James O. Allen “Mother is never going to say yes,” Elise cried to Jimmy. “Well, we’ll just have to elope,” said Jimmy. “Tomorrow, I will pick you up, and we’ll be … Continue reading As We Children Heard… By Barbara Allen Randle (1997)

It can be argued that Black royalty in Peoria continues with the Allen family. Elise Ford Allen's petite stature, standing next to her husband, James O. Allen, made them a stunning couple. Attractive,  full of fresh ideas, very child friendly, and known for their solid family values, many people trusted them.  Elise F. and James … Continue reading A Lesson in Love: Elise and James Allen… Their Lives Remembered – A Very Personal Reflection by Cassiette West-Williams  

Rev. Linda Butler When I heard about Elise Allen’s earth to heaven transition, it came at a time that I had begun a new biblical study on Ecclesiastes. I found Solomon’s observations on life and death of perfect timing for my mourning and celebration of her life. Solomon begins his collection of writings on earthly … Continue reading Tribute To Elise Allen: Remembering A Wise Woman By Rev. Linda Butler, Transition Care Specialist

It is hard to forget people like Elise Allen, who you’ve admired and looked up to for decades. Back in the mid-eighties, when I was a student at Bradley University, Mrs. Allen gave me an opportunity to write for the Traveler Newspaper. I was scared and a little apprehensive about approaching her even though I … Continue reading Thank you, Mrs. Elise Allen By Denise Jackson, 1st District Peoria City Council

Broadcaster Garry Moore's announcement on WPNV 106.3 FM touched people all over Peoria as city residents kept talking about Elise Allen's legacy. Then WEEK-TV ran a touching story on their broadcast, having been with the family for her 100th birthday four months earlier.  The acknowledgments began pouring in for Publisher and family matriarch Elise Ford … Continue reading They Stood On Her Shoulders And Imparted Her Wisdom To The World By Cassiette West-Williams

Dtrs. Doris Jones, Queenie Parks, and LuHenri Davis-Johnson The Daughters of Nora Field Taylor Temple No. 270 honored three of their members; Dtr. Doris Jones, Dtr. Queenie Parks, and Dtr. LuHenri Davis-Johnson for 50 plus years of service in Elkdom on November 6, 2021, at Peter H. Clark Lodge No. 483 in Peoria. Nora Field … Continue reading The Daughters Of Nora Field Temple No. 270 Honor Three For 50 Plus Years Of Service In Elkdom

It's that time of year again where Thanksgiving is quickly approaching. Families will gather in small groups to enjoy the holiday dinner. There may be moments where some sadness may occur while thinking of those loved ones who are no longer with us. But don't dismiss the thoughts completely, instead take a little time to … Continue reading Oh, What Joy, Love and Peace By Robin Carter