James William Cook (January 11, 1820 – May 21, 1875) was a lumber merchant and political figure in Canada West.

His family operated a timber business along the South Nation and Castor Rivers in the eastern part of the province.

The business expanded to include operations near Quebec City, Toronto and Barrie.

Both his father George and uncle John, had served in the Dundas Militia during the War of 1812, receiving the Military General Service Medal with clasp for Crysler's Farm.

His daughter Ella later married Joseph Philippe Baby Casgrain, a land surveyor and politician from Quebec.