Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument

Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument is a national monument run by the National Park Service in Ohio.

In the park service’s words

Throughout his life, Charles Young overcame countless obstacles in his ascent to prominence. In spite of overt racism and stifling inequality, Young rose through the military ranks to become one of the most respected leaders of his time. A well-rounded man with a steadfast devotion to duty, Young led by example and inspired a generation of new leaders.

From the National Park Service (public domain).

Things to do

• Watch "A Triumph of Tragedy: The Life of Charles Young" (10 Minutes): Learn about the life and legacy of General Charles Young while viewing our 10 minute film. This is the park's official introductory film.
• Become a Charles Young Buffalo Soldier Junior Ranger (20 to 120 Minutes): Do you care about exploring, learning about, and protecting Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument? If yes, become a Junior Ranger! There are many ways to be a Junior Ranger at Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers, and this fun activity book is a great place to start.
• 497 Mile Virtual Running and Bicycling Club: In 1918, Colonel Charles Young completed a physically and mentally challenging 497 horseback ride from Wilberforce, Ohio to Washington D.C. in 16 days to prove his physical fitness for military combat duty. Today, we invite those who are physically and mentally fit to challenge themselves and complete their own 497 mil

Fees and hours

Entrance fee: No entrance fee.

Hours: Mon Closed; Tue Closed; Wed Closed; Thu Closed; Fri 9:00AM - 4:00PM; Sat 9:00AM - 4:00PM; Sun 9:00AM - 4:00PM. The Young family home, Youngsholm, has reopened after a multi-year restoration. Contact the park by email at chyo_info@nps.gov if you have questions or concerns. The park grounds are accessible sunrise to sunset every day. You can view the park calendar to see what events are planned or visit our social media pages to stay up-to-date on current park happenings.

Getting there

"Youngsholm" is located in Wilberforce, Ohio near Wilberforce University. It is situated less than one mile west of the Wilberforce University and Central State University campuses on U.S. Route 42 at 1120 US Route 42 E.

Drive times run from the airport to Zion Canyon Visitor Center, estimated with OSRM routing on OpenStreetMap roads at normal speeds; allow extra for traffic, stops and construction.

Miles are straight-line distances.

Visitor centers

• Youngsholm: Mon Closed; Tue Closed; Wed Closed; Thu Closed; Fri 9:00AM - 4:00PM; Sat 9:00AM - 4:00PM; Sun 9:00AM - 4:00PM. The museum includes exhibits on the life and legacy of Brigadier General Charles Young, his family and the Buffalo Soldiers from 1866 through the Korean War. Visitors can also view a 10-minute interpretive film, speak with staff, and shop at the bookstore. You can view the park calendar to see what events are planned or visit our social media pages to stay up-to-date on current park happenings.

Weather

The park lies in a humid continental zone with a generally temperate climate. Winters are mildly cold with average temperatures around 29 degrees (F). Summers are hot and humid with an average temperature around 74 degrees (F). Average annual total rainfall is just under 40". Snowfall in the winter is generally light with an average total snowfall of about 22".

From the National Park Service (public domain).

Know before you go

Drones are banned at almost every park site, and you may not take rocks, plants or artifacts. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet where they are allowed. Bring no firewood from home.

Nearby

The nearest national park is Cuyahoga Valley, about 162 miles away in a straight line.

Sources

• National Park Service Data API: Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument (public domain)
• Official website

Last checked 1 November 2026.