Matthew, until I looked on the map some while back, I hadn't realized that Tensas, LA, and Natchez, were "just across the river." I was starting to wonder if I was posting on the wrong "state board." Now I see the "pull" of "homeplace" and "birthplace" as influences on his choices.

It's a minor point, perhaps, but something in young Stephen's background had caught the attention of President Davis (who vouched for him) as well as JEB Stuart, and suggested at least some military experience or aptitude. Pres. Davis possibly knew Stephen's father/grandfather and maybe even Stephen, but I am hoping that, in asking for a commission, young Stephen volunteered background information that would answer the question. Needless to say, I would love to find an image of him (naturally, one in full uniform with interesting details visible -- yeah, sure). Parrish's bio of Lt Gen Richard Taylor doesn't mention him or delve into Taylor's staff, as once was done in bios and autobios, making it seem that a general's successes and failures were all personal, and downplaying the supporting-enabling men. Trying to "find a name and turn a name into a person" is part of my motivation -- and my objective -- in "recovering" the men of the Confederate signal service and laying out their role in the struggle.