Dow, Neal

Neal (1804-1897), a noted Prohibitionist. He was born in Portland, Maine, of Quaker ancestry. He was twice mayor of Portland, and twice a member of the legislature. During his first term as mayor he framed a Prohibition bill, carried it to the legislature, and had it passed by both houses and signed by the governor and put in effect,--all inside of three days. It was hastily enacted, but it was not drawn hastily. It is known the world over as "the Maine Law." Mr. Dow served in the Union army as colonel of the Maine volunteers. He was commissioned brigadier-general by President Lincoln. He was captured by the Confederates, and was confined in Libby Prison for eight months, until exchanged for General Fitz-Hugh Lee. Mr. Dow visited England three times on lecture tours. In 1894 he was the Prohibition candidate for president.