Manuscript fair copy of Brigadier General Nathan G. 'Shanks' Evans's report on the "Battle of Manassa" [sic] sent to Colonel Philip St. George Cocke, certified at the conclusion as "official" by assistant adjutant general Robert H. Chilton, "R. H. Chilton," five pages on three sheets, 7.75 x 10, July 24, 1861. Evans's report on the Battle of Bull Run, in part: "The Enemy made his appearance in line of Battle on the east side of the Stone Bridge about fifteen hundred yards in front of my position and opened their fire with rifled Cannon at 5:15 A.M…Having my entire force covered by the crest of the hills on the West side of the Bridge, I did not return the fire. Observing the Enemy had deployed a considerable force as skirmishers in front of his line, and that they were advancing on my position. I directed the two flank companies of the 4th Regt. S.C. Volunteers, and one company of Major Wheat's Special Battalion Louisiana Volunteers, to advance as skirmishers, covering my entire front. The skirmishers were soon engaged, and kept up a brisk fire…I sent word to Colonel Ph: St. Geo. Cocke that I had abandoned my position at the Bridge and was advancing to attack the Enemy at the crossing of the Warrenton Turnpike, and the Manassas Roads…I directed my command to open fire as soon as the Enemy approached within range of muskets…The fire was warmly kept up until the Enemy seemed to fall back…but the Enemy by this time were in such large force, that our position was no longer tenable, and I ordered my command, now greatly scattered, to fall back under cover, towards the Lewis House." Includes an additional document signed by Chilton, headed "List of tabular Reports &c of the Battle of Manassa." In fine condition, with light toning, and splitting, along the folds.
The First Battle of Bull Run, known to the Confederacy as the Battle of First Manassas, on July 21, 1861, was the first major land battle of the Civil War. Prior to the action, the Union was expected to quell the rebellion in short order. However, the Confederate victory at Manassas demonstrated the strength of the rebel army and predicated a long and bloody war. Their victory was due, in large part, to Evans's actions. His small brigade of 900 was vastly outnumbered, yet he is credited with delaying the Union's attempts to ford Bull Run long enough for General Johnston to regroup reinforcements. As a result of the Union loss, President Lincoln immediately signed legislation that increased the Union Army by 500,000 men, preparing for a protracted conflict.
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