​NEAL, JOHN, an American poet and author; born in Falmouth, Mass., now Portland, Me., Aug. 25, 1793. He was a member of the Society of Friends, but left it at 25. Later in life he figured as editor, lecturer, lawyer, poet, novelist, and teacher of gymnastics. Among his numerous works are: “Keep Cool” (1817), a novel; “The Battle of Niagara” (1818), a poem; “Brother Jonathan” (1825); “Rachel Dyer” (1828), a novel; “Downeasters” (1833), a novel; “Wandering Recollections of a Somewhat Busy Life” (1870). He died in Falmouth, Mass., June 21, 1876.