Christine, I notice that you are researching Allens in Pontotoc County. I am, too, and I hope you are finally the breakthrough that I need. My Allen was James Harold Allen, 1842-1880. As far as I can determine, he only would have been in MS a short time, possibly in the late 1860's. I am searching for any records that might reveal his parents, as well as a record of his marriage to Jeffersonia Crittenden. Do any of those names ring a bell? Best regards, Donna S. Boyd