Medal of Honor Recipient John Donalson
Sgt. John Donalson ( 1842-1920) of the 4th Pennsylvania Cavalry was awarded the Medal of Honor for capturing the flag of the 14th Virginia Cavalry at Appomattox Courthouse, Virginia on April 9, 1865. The Confederate Cavalry attacked, attempting to reach a supply depot. The attack failed and General Robert E. Lee realized that there was no chance for success and he surrendered his Army later on this historic day. After the war, Sgt. Donalson moved to a farm near Ottumwa. He is buried at Mars Hill Cemetery which has a wonderful old church, established in 1850. The grave of Sgt. Donalson is on the right of the church. It is a challenge to find the cemetery - I took Highway 63 south of Ottumwa - after a few miles turn east on 20th Street - this turns into 15th Street - then turn south on 100th Avenue to the cemetery. Photos taken 11/26/08.