Enforcement in Bangor

Maine, 1916

Bangor, Sept. 6. — Following what is said to have been a stormy discussion with Mayor John F. Woodman, Chief of Police, Lindley W. Gilman tendered his resignation to the Mayor late this afternoon. Tonight the Mayor said that he had not accepted the resignation and probably would not and that matters would no doubt reach an amicable settlement.

Chief Gilman declined to discuss the matter more than to admit that his resignation was brought about by a difference of opinion as to how the liquor law should be enforced in Bangor at this time. The chief of police is appointed by the Mayor, who also has the power of removal.

When the electric carmen went on strike about 10 days ago, Chief Gilman ordered the saloons and bars, said to number 114, holding United States revenue licenses, to close and stay closed. Several who did not obey were promptly raided and fined.

On Tuesday morning there was a general reopening of the bars. Some of the liquor dealers said there was an understanding with the Mayor that they could resume business after Labor Day. Chief Gilman said that he could not be expected to maintain order during a car strike with all the bars open and ordered them to close again.

It is understood that today the Mayor took up the matter again favoring the reopening of the saloons and Chief Gilman passed in his resignation. The saloons are still closed.

—The Fryeburg Post, Fryeburg, Maine, Sept. 12, 1916, p. 6.