William Fiero Russell (January 14, 1812 – April 29, 1896) was an American banker who served one term as a U.S. Representative from New York from 1857 to 1859.

(U.S. ports were run by three political appointees—the collector, naval officer (or navy agent) and surveyor.

These individuals were responsible for assessing customs duties on incoming cargo and ensuring payment to the Department of the Treasury.

Because they were paid a percentage of duties collected as well as a portion of the fines levied for attempting to evade customs, and because employees of the customs houses were political party loyalists who were expected to contribute to their party, the collector, naval officer and surveyor positions were sought after political plums.)

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