Patrick Joseph (P.J.) Kennedy, circa 1878.

“As bartender, host, and proprietor, P.J. Kennedy found himself in the middle of East End [East Boston] news, gossip, celebrations, hopes and fears, troubles and tragedies. He was a good listener, knew how to keep confidences, and had a compassionate spirit. He helped people with loans, gifts, and advice. Often he passed the word on to somebody that so-and-so needed this or that and P.J. Kennedy would appreciate it, asking nothing in return but goodwill. Everyone knew that he was an honorable man, and everyone respected him. He was 5 feet 10 inches, with a brawny physique, blue eyes, a rain-washed, rosy complexion, reddish hair, and a handlebar mustache that swooped gracefully, adding to his air of composure and dignity. Predictably, he became a political force in East Boston. And before long, he was the most influential figure of that whole region of the city.”

ROSE’S DESCRIPTION OF P.J. KENNEDY