I'm guessing you have been reading Bryce Suderow's recent posts of 'Wagon Boss and Mule Mechanic' from the National Tribune. (One of my favorites -- I love first hand accounts).
I don't know how long ago 'seventh grade' was for you but in 1965 (3rd grade), I went to see the movie 'Shenandoah' with our webmaster, Jim, in Columbus MS and I was hooked.
Ken