Kenneth Walker Allen

Kenneth Walker Allen (May 9, 1909 - October 20, 1995) was a longtime Charlottesville grocer and the last known burial at the Daughters of Zion Cemetery.

Allen and his wife Dorothy in their store

Biography

Allen was born to John and Anna Scott Allen in Albemarle County. He was briefly married to Annie Thomas before marrying Dorothy Murray Allen. In 1944, the Allens opened a grocery store bearing their name over Easter weekend. It was originally located at the corner of Garrett and Sixth St. SE, just down the street from where the Allens lived. For over 30 years, it served as a neighborhood staple, being a central source of fruits, meats, and vegetables.

In the 1970s, parts of the city's "urban renewal" plan destroyed the Allen's home and store, and they relocated to Rose Hill, where Mariebette Café and Bakery is today.

When Allen died in 1995, he was interred alongside his parents and wife at the Daughters of Zion Cemetery, which would make his the last burial to take place there.