Born in Hudson, New York, Harriet Allen (1798-1853) was swept up in the many religious revivals of the time and took an active interest in the local churches and clergy. After a long courtship and correspondence, Allen married Benjamin Franklin Butler, a law partner and associate of Martin Van Buren, on 11 May 1818. She frequently advised her husband on his many political and financial interests and also occasionally helped MVB manage his household affairs.