The Other Harmon

While Clifford B. Harmon earned recognition as a prominent aviator and real estate developer who created the suburban community of Harmon along the Hudson River, his brother William E. Harmon left a more culturally significant legacy.

William Elmer Harmon established the Harmon Foundation in 1922. Initially supporting diverse causes like playgrounds and nursing programs, the foundation became "one of the first major supporters of African American creativity" by 1925.

Growing up in the Midwest where his father served as an officer in the 10th Cavalry Regiment (the Buffalo Soldiers), William developed progressive racial attitudes. His commitment to supporting Black artists deepened after meeting "an artist who was unable to sell his paintings because of his race."

Between 1928 and 1933, the Harmon Foundation provided "the first national recognition to the achievements of African Americans," particularly impacting Harlem Renaissance artists. The foundation organized exhibitions touring museums, colleges, libraries, and YMCAs nationwide.