Allin was a native of Bradworthy, Devonshire, England.

[1] After his father died, he and his family moved to Ontario, Canada, where he was educated in the public schools.

[5] Allin was a member of the North Dakota Senate from 1889 through 1891; and then Lieutenant Governor as a Republican from 1891 through 1893.

[2] Elected by popular vote on November 6, 1894, he served as Governor through 1897.

After losing a bid for reelection, he retired from politics and pursued his farming interests.