James Thompson Kirk (September 21, 1826 – December 7, 1886) was a Pennsylvania merchant and then an officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
He commanded the regiment during the battles of Beaver Dam Creek, Gaines Mill, Glendale and Second Bull Run.
In the first three actions, the regiment belonged to the 3rd Brigade of the 3rd Division of Maj. Gen. Fitz-John Porter's V Corps.
At Second Bull Run, it fought with the 3rd Brigade of John F. Reynolds's independent division.
When it became evident that his wounds would prevent any further field duty, he resigned from the army on October 18, 1862.