A Distinguished Orthodontist: Andrew Arthur Allen Sr.

Basic Information

Early Life and Education

Born in rural Lobdell, West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, Andrew Arthur Allen Sr. was born on July 30, 1921. Close-knit communities and Creole ancestry shaped his childhood. Early scientific aptitude got him into Howard University School of Dentistry, where he obtained his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1946, just after World War II.

After decades, the Howard University Alumni Association named him a “distinguished alumnus” in 2019 for his academic and social achievements. He was among the first postwar African American dental professionals educated in a completely integrated university, graduating in 1946.

Military Service in World War II

Allen joined the military after graduating from dentistry school. He provided oral treatment to service people on military locations domestically and abroad as an Army dental officer during World War II. This time improved his clinical abilities under difficult circumstances and established a lifelong discipline that he continued into his civilian orthodontic practice.

His military tenure—spanning roughly 1946 to 1948—saw him oversee preventive dentistry programs, train corpsmen in orthodontic techniques, and manage patient caseloads of hundreds of soldiers. His unit’s excellent readiness ratings testified to his leadership and technical proficiency.

Orthodontic Career and Professional Legacy

After returning to civilian life in Houston, Texas, Andrew Allen Sr. opened his first practice in 1949 across from Emancipation Park, a significant African American monument since 1872. His placement showed his dedication to Houston’s Third Ward’s disadvantaged.

Over three decades, Dr. Allen built a thriving orthodontic practice characterized by:

• Annual Patient Volume: Averaging 400 new cases per year by the late 1960s
• Staff Growth: Expanding from a single-assistant setup to a team of five hygienists and technicians by 1975
• Innovations: Early adopter of edgewise appliance systems and torque-controlled archwires in the 1950s

He continued his education by presenting case studies at regional dental conferences and mentoring new African American dentists. His successful practice helped his family financially and professionalized minority orthodontics in the mid-20th century.

Family & Personal Relationships

Andrew Allen Sr. and Vivian Elizabeth Ayers Allen had four successful children. Despite their 1954 divorce due to incompatibility, he remained committed to his children’s education and creative goals. He attended his daughters’ recitals and his son’s jazz concerts, creating a strong intellectual and artistic home.

Philanthropy and Enduring Honors

While Dr. Allen did not establish formal charitable foundations during his lifetime, his legacy inspired substantial philanthropic efforts by his daughters:

• Dr. Andrew Arthur Allen Sr. Memorial Scholarship (2020): A one-time $5,000 award for Yates High School graduates entering Howard University, funded by Phylicia Rashad.
• Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts Scholarship: Co-endowed by Debbie and Phylicia at Howard University in recognition of their father’s emphasis on education and the arts.

These scholarships underscore the dual pillars of his influence: commitment to higher education and encouragement of artistic talent. Through these awards, his impact extends to new generations of students who follow in his footsteps at Howard University.

Public Recognition and Media Mentions

Although Dr. Allen passed away in 1983, public recognition of his life and work has resurged periodically:

Debbie Allen’s publication of a 1967 picture of Dr. King at their house underlined Allen’s professional status in Houston and his personal involvement in the Civil Rights struggle. Annual Veterans Day social media tributes by Phylicia Rashad honor his military service and dentistry accomplishments.

FAQ

When and where was Andrew Arthur Allen Sr. born?

He was born on July 30, 1921, in Lobdell, West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana.

What military service did he perform?

He served as an Army dental officer during World War II.

Where did he earn his dental degree?

He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Howard University School of Dentistry in 1946.

What was the location of his orthodontic practice?

His practice was located across from Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas.

Who were his notable children?

His children include Tex Allen Jr. (jazz musician), Phylicia Rashad (Tony Award–winning actress), Debbie Allen (actress and choreographer), and Hugh Allen (banking executive).

How has his legacy been honored posthumously?

His daughters established scholarships at Howard University in his name, including a $5,000 memorial award for Yates High School graduates.

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