Alison is best known for his work in the church. His work led to the founding of the first Widows Fund in the church. He was known as the best Latin scholar in America. He taught many people who would go on to productive careers in the church. Foremost among them are Dr. John Ewing, Dr. James Latta, and Matthew Wilson. What is often overlooked is his influence on the founding of America. Three of the signers of the United States Declaration of Independence studied under Alison: Governor Thomas McKean, George Read, and James Smith. Charles Thomson who served as Secretary of the Continental Congress also was a pupil of Alison. Alison was in England when news of the signing of the Declaration of Independence arrived in England. He was far too old to participate, but all knew his sympathies lie with freedom. Upon his death, he freed his slaves.
