James Buchanan Henry

James Buchanan Henry (March 1, 1833 – February 17, 1915) was a lawyer, writer, Private Secretary to the President of the United States, nephew and ward of James Buchanan. He was the first man to hold this office after it became a paid government post. He held this position for two years.

J. B. Henry was the son of Harriet Elizabeth Buchanan (1802–1840) and the Reverend Robert Henry (1801–1838). At age seven, Henry was adopted by uncle James Buchanan and raised as his ward. In 1851 he sent Henry to study law in Philadelphia with John Cadwalader. Some of Henry's duties included drawing the President's salary and paying all of the bills. His post was in the office of the southeast corner room, second floor. He served there between the years 1857 to 1859. Henry was succeeded by his cousin, James Buchanan III (1834–1877).

After leaving the White House, he practiced law in New York City, where he served as Assistant United States District Attorney.