John Kane was a Belfast merchant who grew his modest business into a successful wholesale wine and spirit company. He took an active interest in the commercial and social improvement of the city and during 1839 was involved in a public debate concerning Belfast’s water supply.

Kane wanted to resist excessive taxation by the Marquis of Donegal on water, as a result of which he was threatened with a chancery suit. In addition to serving as mayor, Kane acted as a member of the Belfast police committee and as a magistrate. He died aged 57 at his Turf Lodge residence.