Doyle, as usual you have brought up an interesting but little known point. Many families have been disappointed to learn that great-great-grandpappy "General" John Doe was in fact a private who later held a ceremonial post in the United Confederate Veterans. There was a heated debate when the UCV was first organized about the titles which should be conferred upon members who held certain positions in the organization. A majority felt that military titles should be used, but a substantial minority argued that conferring military titles would confuse the public and dishonor those who had held those titles during the war. The military-title group prevailed.

I remember having to break the news to a lady who brought me a sword to evaluate. It was engraved with the name of a brigadier-general, whose name I have since forgotten (along with where I laid my keys). She was mightily disappointed when I told her that what she had was a presentation sword of a UCV officer. The recipient had been a private during the war. She decided to disbelieve me, and went merrily on her way, showing off the sword of a "Confederate general". I've never understood why someone would not be equally proud of grandpa's service as a private in the Confederate Army.

Anyway, Barlow definitely ended the war as a first lieutenant. His title of captain is probably due to his postwar service.