John C. McFarland (1840 – October 3, 1881) was a sailor in the United States Navy and a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the American Civil War.

McFarland entered the Navy at Boston, Massachusetts on December 24, 1861, as seaman on USS Ohio (1820), later transferring to USS Hartford in the West Gulf Blockading Squadron.

Rated captain of the forecastle, he had the station at the wheel in every engagement in which Hartford participated.

McFarland left his sickbed to take up station, keeping the wheel of Admiral David Farragut's flagship throughout the storm of shell and shot.

He was commended by his commanding officers for his fortitude and intelligence and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his gallant and meritorious service.