James Kilbourne was an American politician and land surveyor, known for his role in the early development of the state of Ohio. He was born in 1790 and became a prominent figure in the region, contributing to its growth and infrastructure. Kilbourne served in various public offices, including as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives. In addition to his political career, Kilbourne was instrumental in founding the city of Columbus, which later became the state capital of Ohio. His efforts in land surveying and urban planning helped shape the city's layout and development during its formative years.