Evander McNair

Biography

Evander McNair (1820–1902) rose from the rural South to become a Confederate brigadier general, earning the respect of his men through steady leadership amid the upheaval of the Civil War. After the conflict he returned to Magnolia, carrying a deep sense of duty and a desire to help the region heal.

In later years he remained a steady presence in his community, engaging with veterans and neighbors while remaining rooted in the Magnolia landscape that shaped him. Magnolia Cemetery now holds his remains, a reminder of a life spent defending his convictions and seeking reconciliation.