The Williamson Art Gallery and Museum on the banks of the river Mersey in the Wirral opened in 1928, established with financial support supplied by Cunard Director John Williamson and his son Patrick. Comprising 6,000 works of art, the 20th Century Collection has particular strengths in depth with artists with connections with the Wirral, Merseyside and North Wales. The Birkenhead Art Club contributed artworks to the development of the Collection, and assiduous purchases and assistance from the Contemporary Art Society in particular has further enriched the collection.