Thomas James | |
|---|---|
 Portrait drawn by Miss Martha H. Hoke found in Steven's Black Hawk War | |
| Illinois Legislature | |
| In office 1826–1828 | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1782 Maryland, U.S. |
| Died | December 1847 Monroe City |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service | Illinois Militia |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Commands | Spy Battalion |
| Battles/wars | Black Hawk War |
Thomas James (1782–1847) was a trapper and hunter who took part in the expedition with the Missouri Fur Company that was contracted by Meriwether Lewis to safeguard the Mandan Chief Shehaka back to his tribe up the Missouri River. During the expedition he traded with Indians and hunted Beaver in the Rocky Mountains. James was also enlisted with the Illinois militia and held command over the spy battalion during the Black Hawk War.