[3] Allison's grandfather Joseph had emigrated from Ireland to Canada in the late 18th century because of the after effects of a dinner with the local government tax collector.

Wanting to impress the man, the family had set the table with their one valuable possession: silver spoons.

[4] Allison was born in Nova Scotia but arrived in Sackville, New Brunswick in 1816 at the age of 21.

In June 1839, Allison was encouraged by Wesleyan Methodist Minister Reverend John Bass Strong that a school of elementary and higher learning be built.

This offer was accepted and the Wesleyan Academy for boys subsequently opened in 1843.