Michael K. Lawler was born in Ireland and raised near Equality in Gallatin County, Illinois. Admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1844 he worked as a farmer and later joined the army as a Captain serving in the Mexican War. He continued his career in the army, serving as a Colonel, was wounded at Fort Donelson, Tennessee, was court-martialed and later acquitted for disciplining his men, received a promotion to Brigadier general in November, 1862 and served in the Vicksburg, Mississippi campaign in 1863. He continued to command military units for the extent of his time in the army.
From the description of Michael K. Lawler papers, 1819-1884 (bulk 1862-1865). (Southern Illinois University). WorldCat record id: 263068876
