Thomas McKinney came to Westwego in 1920 at the age of 36.  He was originally from Mechanikham (Gretna) LA where he was a laborer in a sawmill.  Mr. McKinney could read and write and owned his own home.  He opened a dry cleaning business at 237 Sala Avenue known as “Old Favorite Pressers”. McKinney had two daughters, Clara and Mary.  Because he was able to provide a higher education for his daughters, they became a nurse and teacher serving their community.

Mr. McKinney operated a very successful business for many years. He was also a Church Clerk. Following his death, his property became a part of the True Vine Baptist Church property next door.