John Pearson (January 1802 – June 1875) was an American judge and politician from New York. Descended from an early American family, Pearson matriculated at the College of New Jersey and then practiced law in Ohio. In 1832, he attempted to settle in Chicago, Illinois, but decided to move his family south to Danville instead due to the Black Hawk War. In Danville, Pearson became a prominent attorney and was elected to the state circuit court. After moving to Joliet, Illinois, he served two terms in the Illinois Senate. Pearson established a successful shop in California during the Gold Rush, but was robbed. He returned to Danville and managed properties until his death.