Lewis Orin Barrows was born in Newport, Maine in 1893. After graduating from the University of Maine in 1916 with a degree in pharmacy, he joined the Maine National Guard and went to Mexico.

Upon his return to Maine, Barrows held many local offices, and then became Secretary of State in 1935. In 1936 he was elected Governor of Maine.and served from 1937-1941. Written on this photograph, "To Senator White with my best wishes Lewis O. Barrows Governor of Maine."