Calvert Pratt facts for kids

Calvert Coates Pratt (born October 6, 1888 – died November 13, 1963) was an important businessman from Newfoundland. He also became a Canadian Senator. He received a special award called the Order of the British Empire.

Calvert Pratt was the president of Purity Factories, a company in Newfoundland that made food. He also helped manage other big companies. These included Newfoundland Light and Power, the Canadian Bank of Commerce, and the British Newfoundland Development Corporation (BRINCO).

Early Life and Career

Calvert Pratt was born in a place called Blackhead, Newfoundland. His brother, E. J. Pratt, became a very famous poet.

When Calvert Pratt was 28 years old, he took on a leadership role at a company called A.E. Hickman Company Limited. He became a director and the secretary-treasurer there.

Helping During World War II

During World War II, Calvert Pratt played a big part in helping Newfoundland. He helped start a program to build ships for the Dominion of Newfoundland. This was important for the war effort.

He also helped create the Newfoundland Industrial Development Board. He served as its president, helping to grow industries in Newfoundland. In 1946, he was given the Order of the British Empire for his contributions.

Joining Canada

Calvert Pratt was a strong supporter of Joey Smallwood. Smallwood led the Newfoundland Confederate Association. This group wanted Newfoundland to join Canada.

In 1949, Newfoundland officially joined Canada. Pratt's support helped make this happen.

Becoming a Senator

In 1951, Calvert Pratt was chosen to become a Canadian Senator. He was recommended for this important role by the Prime Minister at the time, Louis St-Laurent.

He continued to serve as a Senator until he passed away in 1963.