Medal of Honor Recipient James M. Elson
Sgt. James Elson (1838-1894) of the 9th Iowa Infantry Regiment was awarded the Medal of Honor for heroic action in carrying the flag while wounded during the charge at Vicksburg on May 22, 1863. After the war, Elson operated a dry goods store in Shellsburg, served as Postmaster, and was elected Sheriff of Benton County shortly before his death. Oakwood Cemetery is NW of town - follow 31 Ave. Dr. north to the Cemetery. He is buried in the section on the west side of the road in the NW portion. Photos taken 2/25/09.