Kennedy, John Pendleton (1795-1870), circa 1850

American novelist and Whig politician who served as United States Secretary of the Navy from July 26, 1852 to March 4, 1853, during the administration of President Millard Fillmore, and as U.S. Representative from the Maryland's 4th congressional district. He was the brother of U.S. Senator Anthony Kennedy. Preceded by William A. Graham, succeeded by James C. Dobbin. Born in Baltimore, Maryland. Also in 1835, he helped introduce Edgar Allan Poe to Thomas Willis White, editor of the Southern Literary Messenger.

Kennedy was married twice. His first wife, Mary Tenant (1802-1824), died in childbirth within a year of their marriage. Their son, Tenant Pendleton, did not survive infancy. In 1829, he married Elizabeth Gray (1808-1889), daughter of Edward Gray of Baltimore. The couple had no children.