Elizabeth Bray Allen

Elizabeth Bray Allen also known as Elizabeth Bray Allen Smith Stith (ca. 1692–by 22 February 1774) operated a large plantation after the death of her first husband, Arthur Allen. After the death of her second husband, she operated both the Allen and Smith estates. She provided the direction and funds to establish a free school for poor boys and girls in Smithfield, Virginia.

She was made a Virginia Women in History honoree in 2015 by the Library of Virginia. He also owned other property in James City County, York County, and New Kent County, Virginia. Her mother, Mourning Pettus, was the widow of Thomas Pettus of Littletown in York County. whose education was generally limited to household skills and social graces. She had at least one sister, Angelica, and two brothers, one named Thomas. Two years earlier, her father died. She then inherited town lots in Williamsburg and land in James City County. She sold the land, which added to her wealth.

Death Elizabeth Bray Allen likely died by February 22, 1774 at her house in Surry County. She wrote her will before 1769 and it was proved on February 22, 1774. She left money for the education of her grandchildren and godchildren. Personal property was left to her granddaughters. Smithfield School received £120 and the residue of her estate. When she died, she had five enslaved workers.