Background
McKenna was born in 1842 and served in the American Civil War.
politician mayor of Pittsburgh
McKenna was born in 1842 and served in the American Civil War.
After returning home to Pittsburgh he worked in the iron industry, eventually becoming a labor union official McKenna also was active in the volunteer and then professional Pittsburgh fire department. In 1875 he was elected to the city council.
From his home at 6325 Marchand Street he launched a successful bid to become Mayor in 1893.
His administration oversaw the completion of the Highland Park Zoo, and the Carnegie Library"s main branch was also completed during his time in office. McKenna died in 1903 and is buried in Saint Mary"s Cemetery in the Pittsburgh neighborhood of Lawrenceville.