George William Evans served an apprenticeship in England during which he gained a knowledge of surveying. After spending some time at the Cape of Good Hope, Evans migrated to New South Wales, arriving at Port Jackson on 16 October 1802. He was appointed acting surveyor-general the following year, but was discharged by Governor King in 1805. Evans took up farming before gaining further surveying roles in New South Wales and Van Diemen's Land.
Evans travelled to England in 1828, but returned to New South Wales in 1832. This time, he established himself in Sydney as a bookseller and stationer, and also took up the role of drawing master at The King's School. In 1844 he moved to Hobart where he died in 1852.
Evans published Geographical, Historical and Topographical Description of Van Diemen's Land in London in 1822. One of his aquatints appears as the frontispiece. Other Evans drawings are held in the Dixson Library, Sydney.
Source: Australian Dictionary of Biography online edition, http://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/
Sighted: 01/12/2011
