The Harmon Foundation was established in 1921 by wealthy real-estate developer and philanthropist (1862–1928). A native of the Midwest, Harmon's father was an officer in the 10th Cavalry Regiment. The Foundation originally supported a variety of causes, including playgrounds and nursing programs, but is best known for having served as a large-scale patron of African-American art that helped gain recognition for African-American artists who otherwise would have remained largely unknown. was the director of the foundation from 1922 until 1967.