Nathan G. Evans
| Nathan George Evans | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Nickname(s) | Shanks |
| Born |
February 3, 1824 Marion County, South Carolina, U.S. |
| Died | November 23, 1868 (aged 44) Midway, Alabama, U.S. |
| Place of burial | Tabernacle Cemetery Cokesbury, South Carolina, U.S. |
| Allegiance |
 United States of America Confederate States of America
|
| Service/branch |
 United States Army Confederate States Army
|
| Years of service | 1848–61 (USA) 1861–65 (CSA) |
| Rank |
 Captain (USA) Brigadier General (CSA) |
| Commands held | Evans' Brigade |
| Battles/wars | |
| Other work | High-School Principal |
Nathan George "Shanks" Evans (February 3, 1824 – November 23, 1868) was a captain in the 2nd U.S. Cavalry who became a brigadier general in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War.
Evans was born in Marion, South Carolina, the third son of Thomas and Jane Beverly (née Daniel) Evans. He briefly attended Randolph-Macon College before receiving an appointment to West Point from John C. Calhoun. After graduation from the United States Military Academy in 1848, Evans served on the western frontier with the dragoons and cavalry before resigning in 1861 to enter Confederate service. He was commissioned a colonel and commanded a small brigade at the First Battle of Bull Run, where he was the first Confederate field commander to perceive the Union intent to attack the Confederate left flank at dawn. His command went far toward saving the day for the South. During the thick of the fight, he was everywhere, closely followed by an aide carrying his "barrelito" (small barrel) of Evans' favorite whiskey on his back.
A number of examples of Evans' good tactical leadership and bravery in battle are recorded. However, his abrasive personality and his passion for intoxicating beverages led to his constant difficulties with colleagues and superiors.
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Wikipedia