James Kelly (1809–1895) was a founder of the Chicago Tribune, serving as business manager among other roles when the first daily issue of the paper came out July 10, 1847, according to the recollection of a partner some 50 years later in the Tribune. The partner, Joseph K.C. Forrest, recalled his colleague as a "practical writer". But Kelly evidently left journalism for more profitable ventures: the recollection described him as involved in the wholesale leather trade.