James Foster McDowell (December 3, 1825 – April 18, 1887) was an American lawyer and politician who served one term as a U.S. Representative from Indiana 1863 to 1865.

Born in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, McDowell moved with his parents to Ohio in 1835.

He moved to Marion, Indiana, in 1851 and engaged in the practice of law.

He engaged in the practice of law in Marion, Indiana, until his death in that city April 18, 1887.

This article incorporates public domain material from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress