James,

One of my ancestors is a Butler in Co. E 7th Battn as well. I'm sure they are related but I have no idea exactly how (cousins maybe). Which part of Alabama was Ford Butler from? If he lived just over the border, I wouldn't be suprised. Lewis Butler, my ancestor, was actually living in Lauderdale Co. in 1860 but spent most of his life after the war in Clarke Co. He flip flops on his place of birth as well. Seems as if he didn't know if he was born in Alabama or Mississippi, so my guess is he was pretty close to the state line. I've been told he connects with the Butlers that Butler, AL was named after (again, just over the state line) but I haven't been able to find any proof, although it would make sense.

I've also heard of soldiers traveling to enlist in order to be with other family members. Wonder if that might be the case here.....

-Lisa-