Career
Born in Anyevny, County Monaghan, Ireland, the son of James Cunningham, he was educated in Anyevny, later coming to Canada and entering business as a merchant in New Westminster. In 1864, Cunningham married Mary Ann Woodman. He resigned his seat in the House of Commons in 1878.
He sat as Modern Language Association for New Westminster City from 1884 to 1886.
He also served as Mayor of New Westminster. Cunningham died in New Westminster at the age of 91.