Hi!
The ex-NZ Albatros mentioned by Bob was one of the "example" I have in mind with direction of wood grain.
In Italy we have Ansaldo SVAs and Balillas and everyone of them have wood veener in wind direction.
I must admit that Balillas had the fuselage side covering in one piece, from radiator to tail and of course it was more simple to cut the wood in veener direction.
It's really hard to see wood grain from old photos, I agree with you Albert D.
Nothing more to say, maybe when you will be in the Museum in front of true relics you find the truth.
Again, your Albatros is really magnificent!
Roberto