Thomas Ryan (21 August 1804 – 25 May 1889) was a Quebec businessman and political figure.

He was born in Ballinakill, County Kildare, Ireland in 1804 and studied at Clongowes Wood College.

[citation needed] Around 1849, he became involved in operating steamboats; he helped form the Canadian Steam Navigation Company in 1853 and later served as a director of the Richelieu and Ontario Navigation Company.

[citation needed] Ryan was also an active member of the Irish Catholic community in Montreal.

He was elected to the Legislative Council of the Province of Canada for Victoria division in 1863 and was named to the Senate after Confederation.