Frank Lawler (June 25, 1842 – January 17, 1896) was a U.S. Representative from Illinois. Born in Rochester, New York, Lawler attended the public schools. He moved with his parents to Chicago, Illinois in 1854. He was a news agent on a railroad for several years and also a brakeman. He learned the trade of shipbuilders. He was active in organizing trade and labor unions, and served as president of the Ship Carpenters and Calkers' Association. He was employed in the Chicago post office as a letter carrier 1869-1877. He served as a member of the city council from 1876 to 1885. He engaged in business as a liquor merchant in 1878.