John McKenna was born in Gloucester City NJ. A fine ball player as a youth, he attracted the attention of Philadelphia Athletics star first baseman Stuffy McInnis, who got him a post as a pitcher on a semi-pro team at Old Orchard ME. After World War I, John McKenna was living in New York, supporting himself in a variety of jobs, including selling sheet music, and as an usher at the New Amsterdam Theater. During this time he met the great American humorist Will Rogers, and he soon was working for him, traveling the country and spending some time with Rogers in Hollywood, before returning to the East Coast.

John McKenna had opened up his cafe in Camden at 319 Federal Street by 1931, and he was listed at that address in the 1940 Camden City Directory. In 1939 he received a liquor license for 650 Clinton Street, the corner of South 7th and Clinton Streets, and he moved his operation there. This is where he made his home, with his wife Catherine. McKenna's Cafe operated at 650 Clinton Street through at least 1947.

Camden Courier-Post
February 24, 1938

Eagles Hall
Washington Street
Broadway