Looking for a definition of a term used in the mid 1800's - Evel hat?

Question

this was used in a letter from the civil war I have recently transcribed

Answer 1

Are you sure you didn't spell something wrong? I just checked the Oxford English Dictionary (the definitive academic dictionary) and all I found was "evell," to pluck or pick (as a flower), first used in the mid-17th century (but likely not in casual Civil War correspondence).

It's not German. Checked that too. Unless it's a last name. Need more info. Perhaps go reconsider your transcription.

Answer 2

The helmet worn by Evil Kneivel? Actually, I tried to find it. It seems to be a German phrase.