Allstate insurance was originally part of the Sears, Roebuck & Co. family.  It was first founded in 1931 and only became a publicly traded company about 60 years later.  Today it is a totally independent company. The company had its beginnings on a commuter train in Chicago.  It was first suggested that Sears, Roebuck & Co. should begin selling automobile insurance by mail.  The company now carries insurance of all types and also offers retirement, investment and banking products. The Allstate Corporation is well known by the slogan "You're in Good Hands with Allstate."  It has also increased its advertisements by sponsoring NASCAR events. It continues to lead the pack as the largest publicly held insurance company. In recent years, Allstate Insurance has quit writing policies in some areas because of the rising threat from natural disasters.  It does continue to carry other types of coverage - including auto and life. What once was just a mail order automobile insurance business has expanded to provide all types of insurance products and so much more. It helps around 17 million households protect their property, their futures and their families.  With around 70,000 professionals working to serve its customers it is no wonder the Allstate motto is all about you being in good hands.