Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument
Discover the restored home of Colonel Charles Young, the first African-American colonel, and learn about the brave Buffalo Soldiers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ranger interaction
Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ranger interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the restored home of Colonel Charles Young, the first African-American colonel, and learn about the brave Buffalo Soldiers.
"A must-visit to reflect on history and the remarkable achievements of Colonel Charles Young and the Buffalo Soldiers."
Check Hours Before You Go
The monument is a former home with limited hours. Always check the NPS website for current operating times! :clock1:
Prepare to Read
Exhibits require reading. Bring your curiosity and be ready to learn about a significant historical figure. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonel Charles Young's Home
The main house
Explore the beautifully restored home of the first African-American colonel in the U.S. Army.
Historical Video Presentation
Visitor Center
Gain crucial historical context about Charles Young and the Buffalo Soldiers through an informative video.
Walking Paths
Surrounding grounds
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the countryside surrounding the monument.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
What to Expect Inside
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Hours Before You Go
The monument is a former home with limited hours. Always check the NPS website for current operating times! :clock1:
Prepare to Read
Exhibits require reading. Bring your curiosity and be ready to learn about a significant historical figure. :books:
Watch the Video First
The historical video provides great context. Watch it before your self-guided house tour for a richer experience. :movie_camera:
Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical site without any charge. A great value for a day trip! :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Hours Before You Go
The monument is a former home with limited hours. Always check the NPS website for current operating times! :clock1:
Prepare to Read
Exhibits require reading. Bring your curiosity and be ready to learn about a significant historical figure. :books:
Watch the Video First
The historical video provides great context. Watch it before your self-guided house tour for a richer experience. :movie_camera:
Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical site without any charge. A great value for a day trip! :moneywithwings:
Passport Stamp Available
Collect your National Park passport stamp here! A must for collectors. :stamp:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historical significance of the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument and the opportunity to learn about a pivotal figure in American history. The restored home and the informative video are highlighted as positive aspects, with rangers often praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Some visitors wish for more personal memorabilia, but the educational value and free admission are consistently recognized.
"This is a nice drive just out of Dayton Ohio. If you didn't see the sign, you would think it was just another house in the country. There is no charge for entering this National Park site.
Charles Youngs home has been beautifully restored and there are several walking paths if you want to explore the countryside. When you enter the house, the Park Ranger is right there to provide brochures and guide you to the video. On the second floor they have a small area setup where you can watch a video about his life and accomplishments. I suggest seeing this before taking a self-guided tour in the house. I was a bit disappointed as there weren’t any memorabilia from his life to view. They did have plenty of signage in place of that so you can read in more detail about his life. They have a small store where you can get some books about him and others that lived (Paul Laurence Dunbar) in the area along with some souvenirs.
The Wilberforce University is just down the street with some historic markers. They add a little more to Charles's history of working there. When exiting the site, turn left and it is a short drive on the right."
Daniel Grove
"Grateful that there arr stories being told. But there is nothing from him/his time period. You walk in on a single replica, some info banners, and then a super sanitized/whitewashed 10 minute video on loop. The staff was kind, and the place is clean -but this is a last minute school project"
Jay Atlas
"Thank you to the ranger on duty this afternoon for providing a wonderful experience for us at this park! Sorry we stayed right til closing time, we appreciate your kindness, especially to our little junior ranger! We enjoyed the movie and learning about Charles young and the Buffalo soldiers!"
Jennifer Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monument is located at 1120 US-42, Wilberforce, OH 45384, a little over an hour west of Columbus. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular day trip destination from nearby cities. 
Yes, there is parking available at the monument for visitors.
Absolutely! It's described as a nice drive just out of Dayton, Ohio, making it a convenient stop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no charge for entering this National Park site. It's a free historical experience.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to check the official National Park Service (NPS) website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
No advance booking is typically required as admission is free. However, checking the NPS website for any special event information is always a good idea.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore Colonel Charles Young's beautifully restored home, watch an informative historical video about his life and the Buffalo Soldiers, and walk the surrounding paths.
Yes, the house tour is self-guided after you receive information and watch the video. Rangers are available to answer questions.
Some visitors have noted a lack of personal memorabilia from his life, with signage and the video providing historical details instead.
Yes, there is a small store where you can purchase books about Charles Young and other local historical figures, as well as souvenirs.
Yes, this National Monument offers passport stamps, which is a popular feature for visitors collecting them.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with the rangers on duty upon arrival for specific guidelines regarding interior photography.
The exterior of the restored home and the surrounding natural landscape offer picturesque opportunities. Capturing the historical markers near Wilberforce University can also add to your photo collection.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't extensive interactive exhibits for children, the historical significance and the opportunity to earn a Junior Ranger badge (if available) can make it a memorable experience. The walking paths offer a chance for kids to burn off some energy in a safe, historical setting.
📚 History Buffs & Students
For students, this site offers a unique opportunity to supplement classroom learning with real-world historical context. The proximity to Wilberforce University, where Young taught, adds another layer of historical significance. Consider visiting in the morning to have more time to absorb the information without feeling rushed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Colonel Charles Young
+1His home, now the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument, serves as a vital space to learn about his contributions and the broader history of the Buffalo Soldiers – the African-American regiments of the U.S. Army established in 1866. These soldiers bravely served in the American West and beyond, facing prejudice while earning distinction for their service.
Visiting the monument offers a chance to connect with this important history. While some visitors note the absence of personal artifacts, the carefully curated exhibits and the informative video provide a deep dive into Young's life and the era he lived in.
Understanding the Buffalo Soldiers
Colonel Charles Young was a prominent leader within this legacy. His career exemplified the capabilities and dedication of these soldiers, challenging prevailing stereotypes. The monument not only honors him but also educates visitors about the collective achievements and struggles of all Buffalo Soldiers.
Learning about the Buffalo Soldiers provides a more complete understanding of American history, highlighting the contributions of often-overlooked communities. The monument's exhibits and the nearby historical context of Wilberforce University offer a rich educational experience.
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