Alan,
Thank you for your insight. Doesn't sound like things were much different during the war in Northern Alabama than it was here in Southern Missouri/Northern Arkansas. Most tried to remain neutral but circumstances sometimes wouldn't allow that. My ancestors who served with Reeves' Independent Scouts, which later became the 15th Missouri Cavalry sound much like my ancestors with the 1st Regiment AL and TN Independent Vidette Cavalry, only serving on different sides. Thanks again for your time and help.
Dan Hill