The oral history interview with Ivan Allen IV explores his upbringing in Buckhead and his family’s deep connctions to Atlanta’s civic, political, and business history. He discusses the legacy of his grandfather, former Atlanta mayor Ivan Allen Jr., who supported the desegregation of public facilities during the Civil Rights era despite strong opposition. Allen also recounts the history of the Ivan Allen Company, a family office supply business that grew into a major regional enterprise before being sold in 1999. Much of the interview focuses on his work with Buckhead Heritage, an organization dedicated to preserving local historic sites and documenting community history. Throughout the interview, Allen reflects on how Buckhead has changed while emphasizing the importance of preserving its historical and civic legacy.
Bio:
Ivan is a fourth generation Atlantan and has served Buckhead Heritage as Past President, Chair of the Membership Committee and Chair of the Nominating Committee. Ivan also has a heart for historic cemeteries and has worked diligently on the cemetery at New Hope AME Church. Ivan also serves as an Advisory Board Member of the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts at Georgia Tech. Along with his wife Blain, and their four children, they all enjoy community restoration projects.
Video
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