[1] Harry L. Trout was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania on October 28, 1853.

He attended public schools, and apprenticed to become a bookbinder.

[2][3] A Republican, he held a number of public offices, beginning in 1889.

He was appointed mayor of Lancaster in 1915 to complete the term of Frank B. McClain, who had been elected lieutenant governor.

[2][3] Trout was reelected as mayor, but died from a bronchial infection at Lancaster General Hospital on January 5, 1920, one hour after he would have been sworn into office.