Smyrna, Delaware’s Oldest Continuous Business
Pratt Insurance, Inc. was founded in 1880 during an era of tremendous community expansion. Today, we are proud to stand as the town's longest operating commercial enterprise, having protected multiple generations of Delawareans through the Industrial Revolution, two World Wars, economic downturns, and rapid technological shifts.
Municipalities, commercial contractors, small businesses, and agricultural farms are just a few of the diverse clients that place their confidence in Pratt Insurance. We anticipate, structure, and actively manage risk so that our business owners and families can focus on their life's work with genuine peace of mind.
As a true Independent Insurance Agency, we maintain agency contracts with premier regional, national, and international carriers. Because we are not captive to any single underwriter, we are unencumbered in our mission to secure the most comprehensive coverage at the most advantageous pricing.
Executive Biography: Howell F. Wallace, CEO
Leading Smyrna’s oldest business for nearly five decades with military discipline, integrity, and visionary community commitment.
Over 49 Years of Exemplary Ownership
Howell Wallace has owned and operated Pratt Insurance for the past 49 years, steadfastly spearheading the independent agency’s commitment to deliver exceptional, tailored, and innovative risk solutions to its valued clientele.
Military Service & Veteran Roots
Howell proudly served with and received an Honorable Discharge from the United States Marine Corps (1963 – 1969). The core Marine values of honor, courage, and commitment became the indelible bedrock upon which his entire business philosophy is built.
In 1974, Howell joined the Pratt Insurance team to master the industry at the grassroots level. Recognizing his keen acumen and client-centered drive, he was named President & Chief Executive Officer in 1976. Under Howell’s steady stewardship, Pratt Insurance has undergone substantial geographic expansion—growing its footprint across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, while modernizing its commercial lines and establishing an internationally recognized specialty practice in equine insurance.
One constant throughout his five decades of ownership is Howell's unyielding dedication to honoring Pratt's legacy as a trusted insurance partner and industry authority. Howell and the seasoned Pratt team continue to actively support the Mid-Atlantic community by delivering top-tier expertise in personal lines, commercial programs, equine insurance, and assertive claims representation.
We Support Our Military & First Responders
"We support our military, thank you for all you and your families do for us." — The Pratt Insurance Family
Key Milestones in Our 146-Year Journey
Trace the continuous operational history of Pratt Insurance, Inc. from 1880 to the present day.
Pratt Insurance commences operation in the historic town of Smyrna, offering property and casualty underwriting to regional Delaware farmers, merchants, and landowners.
Future CEO Howell F. Wallace proudly serves with the United States Marine Corps, earning an Honorable Discharge and shaping the agency’s future ethos of service, honor, and accountability.
Howell joins Pratt Insurance in 1974 to learn the trade from the grassroots level. In 1976, he is appointed President & CEO, beginning four decades of visionary stewardship.
Licensing expands across the Mid-Atlantic states of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. The agency develops specialized authority in Equine Mortality and Liability, partnering with Lloyd's of London and Markel.
Celebrating 146+ continuous years as Smyrna's oldest business, maintaining an in-house claims advocacy team, 25+ top carrier relationships, and a modern, high-touch client service model.