Born in Newport-on-Tay he played in the Football League for Bury, Preston North End, Sheffield United, Stoke and West Bromwich Albion.

[2] Hendry, now playing as a centre forward was restless in his time with the Baggies, and in April 1889 he joined Stoke.

Hendry made his debut for Sheffield United against Derby Junction on 28 February 1891 in a Midland Football League match.

The United committee "set great value upon his options as to the arrangement and formation of the team, and placed confidence in his judgement... and ability as a player, a captain, and an adviser"[4] It was also said that Hendry's advice and guidance helped the natural talents of Ernest Needham, who was to become an England international.

[4] Hendry sustained an injury during a New Year's Day friendly fixture at Leith Athletic in 1895 and it was thought that it would end his career.