That is a wonderful discovery. We do our ancestors a disservice when we don't try to learn their story or at least something of the times they were living in. That's why that "brick wall" hurts our heads so much. We hit it too often.
Speaking of "timber"---I've discovered a number of Southern soldiers who followed the 'timber trail' after the war for the employment. It was booming around here, Mississippi, Central and Northern Louisiana and I'd guess other areas especially the northwest. It was timber that brought 3 of my Alabama lines to Escambia County. The railroad was another 'job' many took. I'd guess there are a lot of former Confederates who are resting afar from home and still are not identified as 'special'.

Pam