George Allen, a native of the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, moved to South Florida in 1928 seeking a more productive life style for his family. Allen became employed by George Merrick, the founder of Coral Gables. and rose quickly through the ranks to become a foreman with a multitude of responsibilities. Allen made wise investments by purchasing land and properties in Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and South Dade. As a result of these lucrative investments, Allen became self-employed.
By the late 1930's Allen had built a home on Industrial Avenue in Coral Gables where his business escalated. Allens's business also included selling wood in the winter, hauling watermelons, farming and operating a produce truck. This business allowed Allen to branch out in several communities. Families began to rely on the fruits and vegetables sold from his produce truck.
George Allen was a kind and generous man who never said no when a family was in need. It is in his memory that the City of Coral Gables renamed Industrial Avenue as George Allen Avenue on May 24, 1994.
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