McKenna, James

James McKenna was clerk of Tullamore Poor Law Union for approximately 40 years. Born in County Monaghan, his early career was as a teacher in Mountmellick, County Laois. He was then appointed clerk of the Tullamore Union where he remained until his retirement. He died on 4 December 1907 at the age of 92 years. An obituary published in the King's County Chronicle remarked 'An idea of his self-sacrifice to his work will be formed when it is stated that even on Christmas days instead of passing holidays at home with his family, he would be seen in his office in Tullamore Workhouse as intent upon his duties as if he was bound to have his books posted up for an immediate imperative inspection.'