The city of Rockland, Maine, population 8,800, became famous in the late 19th century for the production of lime and as a seaport and shipbuilding center. The 20th century saw a decline in the city's fortunes with a brief revival during both World Wars. The effort is now being made to consolidate the city's economic position which is dependent largely on the sea-food and lime industries, and to improve its existing resources. Under the city manager plan a new school has been built, the streets repaved, old debts paid off and the fire department expanded. With such progress the acceptance of new ideas is making headway and it was into this climate that the William A. Farnsworth Art Museum was projected.