Founded in 1819 by Captain Alexander Allan for trade between Scotland and Montreal. His sons, notably Sir Hugh Allan and Andrew Allan, significantly expanded the business.33 In 1854, Hugh Allan founded the Montreal Ocean Steamship Company, which in 1856 obtained the Royal Mail contract between Great Britain and North America, surpassing Cunard.33 The line became a major carrier of emigrants, especially Scots and Scandinavians (via feeder service from Liverpool or Glasgow between 1869-1872).33 Operated mainly on the Scotland/Liverpool to Quebec/Montreal routes, later adding Boston.33 Was a pioneer in technology, introducing the first ocean liner with a steel hull (Buenos Ayrean, 1880) and the first turbine-powered passenger ships (Virginian and Victorian, 1904).33 In 1891, acquired the State Line.33 In 1897, the various branches were amalgamated under the Allan Line Steamship Company Ltd., of Glasgow.33 Became the world's largest private shipping company in the 1880s but faced financial difficulties in the early 20th century.33 Was sold to Canadian Pacific Steamships in 1917 (process initiated around 1909/1910), and the Allan brand disappeared from commercial transport the following year.33 Notable ships include Buenos Ayrean, Sardinian, Parisian, Virginian, Victorian.