William Joseph McKenna, an attorney practicing at the New Haven bar, was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, March 1, 1887, a son of Thomas J. and Bridget McKenna, both of whom are residents of New Haven. The father who is now living retired was a coach lamp maker and came to New Haven from Bridgeport -- his native city.

  William Joseph McKenna pursued his education in St. John’s parochial school and in the Hillhouse high school, after which he took up the study of stenography in a business college. He became quite proficient along that line and accepted a position of that kind but regarded this merely as an initial step to other professional labor, for it was an expedient whereby he might provide for his own support while preparing for the bar. He entered the Yale Law School in 1905 and graduated with the class of 1908, winning the LL. B. degree. The same year he opened an office for the practice of law and since 1911 has occupied his present quarters at 39 Center street. He has made steady advancement along professional lines and is now accorded a good clientage, while his devotion to the interests entrusted to his care has become proverbial. In 1911 he was made a justice of the peace and has occupied the position for six years, his decisions being strictly fair and impartial.

  On the 28th of October, 1914, Mr. McKenna was married to Miss Aileen Teresa O’Donnell. They are members of the Roman Catholic church and Mr. McKenna holds membership with the  Knights of Columbus, the Loyal Order of Moose and the Knights of St. Patrick. He is also a member of the New Haven Yacht Club and his political allegiance is given to the democratic party, which he has supported since age conferred upon him the right of franchise.