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The 1857 nationwide financial panic tested Allen’s resilience, but his benevolence during this crisis earned him strong community support. He personally guaranteed debts and supported struggling local businesses, which fostered goodwill. By 1860, his investments and projects had propelled Des Moines from 200 residents to nearly 4,000, cementing his status as a local magnate. Allen was instrumental in attracting commerce, establishing banks, and developing key industries such as coal mining, insurance, and transportation.