History & Culture

Establishment of a Monument

 

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

 

The Efforts of Many

March 25^th, 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 401^st NPS site. However, the work that went in to reaching the monumental achievement began long before March 25^th, 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 25^th, 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.