William Kirby, (13 October 1817 – 23 June 1906) was a Canadian author, best known for his classic historical novel, The Golden Dog.

After visiting Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City, he settled in Niagara, Ontario, where his house still stands.

Kirby practised as a tanner until his marriage with Eliza Madeline Whitmore, with whom he had three children (one of whom died in infancy.

Although the first edition of the book was filled with errors, it was still very well received by the public and, to Kirby's delight, it was rumoured to have been read by Queen Victoria.

The book was then picked up by New York publisher Richard Worthington, and re-issued in 1878, Kirby, once again, was neglected royalties.