George was born around 1839 to Daniel and Mary H. (Stevens) Eveleth in either Dorchester or Dedham — his death record says Dorchester but his marriage record lists Dedham. He was the youngest of their children on the 1850 and 1855 Censuses. In his youth he and his family moved frequently, and can be found in various locations in eastern Massachusetts: Dorchester, Boston, Lynn, Amesbury… In December 1861 he went to Providence, RI and enlisted as a Private in the 1st Rhode Isla

Joseph was a farmer, stable master, and horse trader. His oldest son George worked with him. Joseph also owned shares in two merchant ships.