The films of Reverend Harold Reeves Allen

Films by and from the collection of Rev Harold Reeves Allen

Harold Allen was born in Belfast on December 21, 1921, to W.H. (Harry) Allen and Eva Allen. The family initially lived in Ormiston Crescent (Knock) before moving to Harold’s grandfather’s house, Drenta, on Upper Newtownards Road.

Harold attended St Hilda’s, R.B.A.I (1933-37), and Sullivan Upper (1937-39). His education was interrupted by WWII, during which he worked in the family grocery business and served as an instructor in the Civil Defence Organisation. After the war, the family relocated to Groomsport, Co Down.

In 1947, after attending the 1st World Conference of Christian Youth in Oslo, Harold decided to pursue ministry. He studied at Trinity College Dublin (1948-51) and Union Theological College (1951-54). He became an assistant minister at Great Victoria Street Presbyterian Church and later served at Ballyclare Presbyterian. In 1955, he married Mabel (McNeill), and their daughter Ingrid was born in 1959. They remained in Ballyclare until retiring to Ballygally in 1987.

Harold was deeply involved in reconciliation and community building. He was a leader in the Boys’ Auxiliary and participated in youth camps at Guysmere House in Castlerock. In the early 1950s, he joined a peace initiative in Germany, forming a lasting bond with a family in Dorsten. This connection led to the twinning of Dorsten and the Borough of Newtownabbey in 1988. In recognition of his efforts, Harold received the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1987, and a street in Dorsten was named Harold Allen Strasse after his death.

A proud monarchist, Harold decorated his house for the King and Queen’s visit to Belfast in 1937 and attended the coronation in 1953. He was honored with the MBE and OBE for his work with Ulster Savings, part of the National Savings Movement.

Harold was politically active as a young Unionist but chose to focus on his ministry. He was dedicated to uniting Northern Ireland’s communities, providing aid during the Troubles and supporting the Corrymeela Community. He contributed to the Presbyterian Church’s Government Committee and co-founded an Inter-Church group in Ballyclare.

An avid traveler, Harold enjoyed family holidays across Europe and later explored Russia, Africa, India, Australia, and the USA. In retirement, he pursued hobbies such as stamp collecting, gardening, and history. Sadly, Harold passed away from cancer in 1994 at the age of 72. This remarkable collection of films demonstrates his keen eye for cinematography, and a great talent for capturing striking images of Northern Ireland's past.