Alfred Kennerley

Who was Alfred Kennerley?

Alfred Kennerley was an Australian politician and Premier of Tasmania from 4 August 1873 until 20 July 1876.

Kennerley was born in Islington. He was a man of means who came from England to Australia when young and settled in New South Wales. He removed to Hobart, became an alderman about 1860, and was mayor in 1862, 1863, 1871 and 1872. He was elected to Parliament and on 4 August 1873 became premier without office. His ministry initiated a policy of public works, but though there was really little difference between the parties, there was a good deal of political strife, and it was difficult to get anything constructive done. Kennerley became discouraged and resigned on 20 July 1876. This was the only time he was in office, but he was well known for the remainder of his long life as a staunch supporter of the Church of England, and as one of the most philanthropic and high-principled citizens of Hobart. He died in his eighty-eighth year on 15 November 1897. His wife died many years before him and he had no children.