History of northern Wisconsin: containing an account of its settlement, growth, development, and resources, an extensive sketch of its counties, cities, towns and villages, their improvements, industries, manufactories, biographical sketches, portraits of prominent men and early settlers, views of county seats, etc. Chicago: Western Historical Co., 1881. p.1151

James E. Kennedy, dealer in a general line of groceries, staple and fancy goods, 147 Main Street, settled in Oshkosh, Wis., in 1858, and began the grocery business the same year, in company with E.W. Viall, and continued in company until 1872; sold out and engaged in the manufacturing of boots and shoes, which he continued until the fire of 1875, when he was burned out. He began his present business in the fall of 1875. He was born in Ireland, May 14, 1833; emigrated to America in 1849. He was married in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1858, to Miss Ellen Andrews; she was born in Huron Co., Ohio, Nov. 13, 1838. They have four children- Charles A., Ella K., Bell and Jane A. Charles A. assists his father in store. They do about $100,000 business per annum. Mr. K. was a member of the Wisconsin legislature in 1869.