William H. Perry Sr.

William Henry Perry Sr., also known as W. H. Perry (March 5, 1860 – October 13, 1946) was an American physician, educator, and principal. He was also a member of the freemasons, poet, and public speaker. He was the first Black physician to receive his license by passing the Kentucky state medical licensing board. He was the posthumous namesake of Dr. William H. Perry Elementary School in Louisville, Kentucky.

Early life and education William H. Perry was born on March 5, 1860, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to parents Anna (née Hill) from Virginia and Charles B. Perry from Kentucky. His parents had been enslaved and were connected to the Lost Creek community in Indiana.

Death and legacy At the time of his death he was a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason. He was interred at Louisville Cemetery.

In 1952, he was the posthumous namesake of Dr. William H. Perry Elementary School in Louisville, Kentucky (formerly Western Elementary School where he was principal), and later known as Roosevelt–Perry Elementary School.