Diocletion Lewis
Diocletian Lewis (1823-1886), commonly known as Dr. Dio Lewis, was a temperance leader who sometimes practiced medicine. Although he only had a degree in homeopathic studies, Lewis fraudulently used the title of Doctor and illegally practiced medicine without a license. Nevertheless, he used his title and oratorical gift to good effect in promoting temperance.
In the 1880’s, Lewis and his mother began leading groups of followers into saloons to pray for their closure. He later lectured in churches claiming miraculous results from conducting such "Visitation Bands." Lewis’ actions and lectures inspired others to similar action, thus initiating the Women’s Crusade against alcohol.
This crusade revitalized the temperance movement and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) was later established. The WCTU traces its origin to the Women’s Crusade.