Harry Truman Pratt Sr.

Harry Truman Pratt Sr. (October 17, 1873 – September 8, 1945) was an American educator, artist, publisher, businessman, and civic leader. He was the first African American graduate of the Maryland Institute of Art and Design, currently the Maryland Institute College of Art, in 1895.

Pratt served in the field of education for 47 years. He became the first alumni to lead his alma mater Douglass High School, formerly the Colored High School, for eleven years Pratt was a member of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity, the Negro Business Men’s League of Baltimore, and a number of local national teacher and principal associations.

Early life Pratt was born to Louis and Clara Pratt in Baltimore, Maryland. Pratt attended the Colored High School The appointment was made under the $6,000 contract between the city and the Institute. At 15 years old, Pratt entered the college’s evening school architectural department under the premise he would have the same privilege as other students. Pratt graduated from the Institute with honors

Career After graduating from high school and the institute, Pratt worked for the Postal Service for three years before resigning to work for the city school system in 1898. After his father’s death, the business operated in partnership with Wallis T. Lansey.

He also attended Morgan State College in 1922.

Pratt was an educator for 47 years in Baltimore City Public Schools.

Pratt retired in June 1945 due to age and health.