Since the beginning in 1803 the township had been known as township number three in the fifth range. Its settlement had begun and its continued existence seemed assured. It was quite natural that the inhabitants should desire a more simple and convenient name. It was desirable, also, that the name should have some historical significance.

As it was a township of flattering prospects, any one of its proprietors would have felt honored by having his name associated with its future history as one of its founders. One of its proprietors, in addition to person merit and prominence, bore a name that stood high in the list of honored names of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This was Hon, Levi Lincoln, afterwards governor of his state, and by common consent the township was called Lincolnville until its incorporation in 1816.