Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument

Pictures courtesy of the -Matthew Dillon: Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument.

Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument, located in Wilberforce, Ohio, celebrates the remarkable life and legacy of Colonel Charles Young, a trailblazing African American military officer and leader. The monument preserves his former home, providing visitors a chance to explore the rich history of the Buffalo Soldiers and Young’s extraordinary contributions to civil rights, education, and military service. This inspiring site offers a profound connection to the history of African Americans in the U.S. Army, serving as a testament to perseverance and leadership.

Website:	Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument
Map:	Park Map
Visitor Centers:	Charles Young Home: Located within the historic home of Charles Young, this visitor center provides in-depth exhibits detailing his life, the role of the Buffalo Soldiers, and the broader struggle for racial equality in America. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour and view personal artifacts that tell the story of Young’s dedication and achievements.
How to get There:	From the North: Take I-75 South to I-70 East toward Springfield. Exit onto OH-72 South and follow signs for Wilberforce. The monument is located on US Route 42. From the South: Take I-71 North to exit 65 for OH-35 West. Turn onto OH-42 North and continue to Wilberforce. Look for signage directing you to the site.

A Historic Tribute to Colonel Charles Young
Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument in Wilberforce, Ohio, is a site steeped in history and inspiration. The monument honors Colonel Charles Young, the first African American to achieve the rank of colonel in the U.S. Army and an influential leader of the Buffalo Soldiers. Born into slavery in 1864, Young’s extraordinary journey to become a West Point graduate and a trailblazer in military history exemplifies resilience and perseverance. His service included commanding Buffalo Soldiers, protecting national parks, and diplomatic missions in Liberia, all while advocating for racial equality during a time of profound social injustice. The designation of his home, “Youngsholm,” as a national monument in 2013 preserves his legacy and highlights the contributions of African American soldiers in shaping U.S. history.

Discovering Youngsholm and Buffalo Soldier Legacy
Visitors to the monument can begin their journey at Youngsholm, the former residence of Colonel Young, which serves as the centerpiece of the park. This historic house offers an intimate glimpse into Young’s life through exhibits showcasing personal artifacts, photographs, and correspondence. Guided tours provide an in-depth narrative of his military achievements, leadership of the Buffalo Soldiers, and role as a mentor and advocate for civil rights. Beyond the house, outdoor exhibits and interpretive panels shed light on the Buffalo Soldiers’ critical role in defending the frontier, safeguarding early national parks, and contributing to the expansion of the American West.

Preserving an Inspiring Legacy
The Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument holds deep historical and cultural significance, celebrating the triumphs of African Americans in the military and their enduring fight for equality. As a pioneering figure, Colonel Young broke barriers and paved the way for future generations, embodying the values of courage, service, and dedication. The monument not only preserves his legacy but also serves as an educational platform to share the often-overlooked contributions of African American soldiers. A visit to this national park is a profound reminder of the importance of honoring those who shaped the nation’s history through perseverance and leadership.

Points of Interest:

Youngsholm: The centerpiece of the monument, this historic home offers visitors an intimate look into Colonel Charles Young’s life. Guided tours showcase artifacts, photographs, and stories that highlight his groundbreaking military career and leadership of the Buffalo Soldiers, as well as his lasting influence on civil rights and education.

Buffalo Soldiers Exhibits: These engaging exhibits detail the pivotal role of the Buffalo Soldiers in U.S. history. Learn about their work as early protectors of national parks, their contributions to westward expansion, and their enduring legacy as trailblazers in military service and environmental stewardship.