On a fall road trip with my friend Lisa through Pennsylvania and Ohio to visit lesser known National Park Service sites, we made a quick but meaningful stop at Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument in Wilberforce. It’s just 30 minutes southeast of Dayton. Even though we arrived after the visitor center had closed, we still learned about a remarkable man.
Who Was Charles Young?
Born enslaved on March 12, 1864, Charles Young rose to become the highest-ranking African American line officer of his era. In 1889, he graduated from West Point. He was only the third Black cadet to do so and the last until 1936. His military career was groundbreaking. He served with the Ninth and Tenth Cavalry, the famed Buffalo Soldiers, and later became a professor of military science at Wilberforce University. In 1903, he made history again as the first African American superintendent of a national park. He oversaw road building and visitor access at Sequoia and General Grant (now part of Kings Canyon) National Parks.
What You’ll See
The national monument preserves his home in Wilberforce, where Young lived while teaching at the university. Inside the exhibits highlight his West Point years, Buffalo Soldier service, and groundbreaking work in conservation and public lands. The house itself stands as a testament to his perseverance, intellect, and service. The visitor center and museum are open Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument
Why It’s Here
Wilberforce was central to Young’s life and career. He returned here to teach and mentor the next generation of Black military leaders, making it the perfect location to honor his legacy.
Dayton Connection
If you’re planning a visit, combine it with time in Dayton. We stayed at Hotel Ardent, a stylish boutique property in downtown Dayton that opened in February 2025. With its central location, it’s a great base to explore both Dayton, Wright Brothers history, and the nearby Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument.
