History & Culture

Establishment of a Monument

 
Obama signs proclamation
President Barack Obama designates the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument in Ohio, and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument in Maryland during a signing ceremony in the Oval Office, March 25, 2013.

The White House Photo Office / Pete Souza

 
A tan arrowhead with trees, mountains, lake and bison with text reading National Park Service

The Efforts of Many

March 25th, 2013, the date which officially established the long-awaited Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument when President Barack Obama signed the document creating the nation's 401st NPS site. However, the work that went in to reaching the monumental achievement began long before March 25th, 2013 and incorporated myriad people and organizations who believed that this true American hero's story should be known to all and cherished forever.

Two of the biggest supporters of the legacy of Charles Young, Omega Psi Phi fraternity and the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center (NAAMCC), went to great lengths and expenses to ensure that the house of Colonel Charles Young would remain intact and presentable in the hopes of becoming the centerpiece of a national park. The commitment, dedication and resolve that these organizations and the countless number of people who supported the Young legacy, culminated on Monday, March 25th, 2013 as President Barack Obama utilized the powers given to him under the 1906 Antiquities Act and signed the proclamation establishing Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument. The proclamation set aside nearly 60 acres of land that includes the former home of Colonel Young. The house, more affectionately known as "Youngsholm" also serves as the current face of the newest national park addition. As the development of this new site progresses, the National Park Service looks forward to working with Omega Psi Phi fraternity, the NAAMCC, the Colonel Charles Young Foundation and all other partners and friends to maximize the growth of the park.

Learn more about the People and the Places which make up the park.

 
Omega Psi Phi fraternity logo on left, National Afro American Museum & Cultural Center on right
 
Charles Young, standing with hand on hips, next to horses and troopers
General Charles Young

The life of General Charles Young was filled with memorable highs and demoralizing lows. Learn more about this true American hero.

Black and white photo of African American Family posing for photo. There are 4 people in photo.
Charles Young's Family

Throughout Charles Young’s life, his family supported and encouraged him. Learn more about the people who made the man.

Black and white photo of 4 Buffalo Soldiers standing shoulder to shoulder in their fire camp in 1910
Buffalo Soldiers by the Decades

Discover the people, places and events that shaped the Buffalo Soldiers for almost 90 years.

A portrait of several army soldiers sitting and text on top reading General Charles Young
Charles Young Interactive Storymap

Read more and learn more about the incredible life story of General Charles Young through the new, interactive Storymap!

Last updated: January 5, 2023

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Wilberforce, OH 45384

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937 352-6757
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