John Alexander Dowie

John Alexander Dowie (1847-1907) was born in Edinburgh, Scotland but his family moved to Australia. He returned to Edinburgh to study theology then returned back to Alma in Australia where he entered the Congregational ministry in 1870.

In 1888 he went to the USA. He received little attention in San Francisco so he settled in Chicago.He became increasingly successful as an evangelist and as a healer. Nearly 100 suits were brought against him by doctors and clergy who opposed his practices - but he won every single one.
In 1896 he founded the Christian Catholic Church which emphasized spiritual healing.
In 1901 he established the City of Zion. He ruled the community as a theocracy - he forbade physician’s offices, dance halls, theaters, drug stores, smoking and drinking… He proclaimed himself Elijah the Restorer and later first Apostle. Various industries were begun and the town prospered with John in sole control of the businesses.

The city then became jeopardized by his expensive,futile trips to New York to convert the city in 1903 and then Mexico. This led to his removal due to his fiscal irresponsibility. In 1906. Wilbur Voliva, a trusted friend, replaced him.

John died, aged 59, on 9th March 1907

Source used
Encyclopedia Britannica