One of the few native-born Cape Ann artists, the fascinating, eccentric, and gifted William Lester Stevens was born in Rockport to a family of ten children with little means. Notably focused and prolific, it is said that he won more awards and prizes than any other artist of his era (which included many American greats). His dedication to making art more accessible to the common man led to his contributions as a founder of the Rockport Art Association.