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Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument Ohio National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior NPS / TOM ENGBERG FROM BLACK OFFICER IN A BUFFALO SOLDIER REGIMENT: THE MILITARY CAREER OF CHARLES YOUNG BY BRIAN SHELLUM Duty to family and country were the greatest motivators in Charles Young’s life. When he came home, he would put down his sword and enjoy time with family and friends. He also played several instruments and wrote songs, poetry, and plays. Charles Young’s inspirational life embodies the hope and opportunity that military service has provided African Americans since the mid-1800s. His career began as a leader of the Buffalo Soldiers, whose story is also told at this park. The map below shows the range of his work, and photographs illustrate his life in the field and at home. Explore the life of Brigadier General Charles Young and how his influence continues today. Young’s drive to succeed included his family. He and his wife, Ada (above), who attended Spelman College, sent their children to good schools. Ada was active in the local Wilberforce community and managed the family’s affairs. Charles Young in Class A (dress) uniform “YOURS FOR RACE AND COUNTRY” These words closed many of Charles Young’s letters. Recipients knew exactly what mattered most to him. He lived at a time when African Americans faced significant roadblocks and prejudice. The reforms of post-Civil War Reconstruction were crumbling under the force of segregation in the South and racism throughout the nation. Yet he conducted his life as an example of service to his country and in support of racial equality. Young served around the world—from the American frontier to duty in the Caribbean, Asia, and Africa. SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE NPS / CHARLES YOUNG BUFFALO SOLDIERS NATIONAL MONUMENT The NAACP honored Young in 1916 (above left). The US Army was not supportive and kept Young out of World War I. In protest, he rode his horse from Ohio to DC to prove his fitness. He was sent to Camp Grant in Illinois to train troops (above right). In 1903 he met Ada Mills while he was stationed in San Francisco, California. After they married, they traveled together as much as they could. When they were apart, they often exchanged letters. Young often closed his letters to Ada with “Forever and a day, the one that loves you—Charlie.” ALL IMAGES—COURTESY NATIONAL AFRO-AMERICAN MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER UNLESS OTHERWISE CREDITED The Youngs’ children, Marie Aurelia and Charles Noel, often helped with farming at Youngsholm. Young (seated, center, front row) with the 9th Cavalry, I Troop, during the Philippine-American War, where they served from 1901 to 1902. He sits next to Samuel Pearson, who became a lifelong friend. Young in western Wyoming, around 1910. He trained soldiers in the field year-round. Marie Aurelia and Charles Noel attended schools in Europe when their father was stationed in Liberia. Buffalo Soldiers, led by Young (front row, center), built roads and trails in Sequoia National Park. Some of these routes are still used today. Charles and Ada traveled to Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Liberia (left). He was the first African American military attaché, reporting on conditions in other countries. The World of Charles Young FROM SL AVERY TO C ADET WEST POINT TO WAR FAMILY AND DUT Y CHANGING TIMES 1864–89 Charles Young is born enslaved in Kentucky, Young’s first decade as a US Army officer begins and ends at Young experiences major personal and professional changes Young is honored for his leadership during the Punitive graduates with honors from an integrated high school, and remote posts. He also teaches at Wilberforce College in Ohio as he marries, starts a family, and advances his career Expedition in Mexico, and in 1917 Gen. John J. Pershing becomes the third African American to graduate from and thrives in the town’s cultural atmosphere. through a variety of posts. recommends his promotion to colonel. the US Military Academy at West Point. 1914–18 1863 1872 1903 A NEW IDEA FOR THE WORLD In San Francisco Young leads the 9th Cavalry in a parade THE WAR TO END ALL WARS EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION On March 1 the world’s first national park is established for President Theodore Roosevelt. He is the first African War breaks out in Europe; the United States declares war in 1917. Abraham Lincoln declares that enslaved people when President Ulysses S. Grant signs the Yellowstone American national park superintendent, as well as the first occupying Confederate states were “thenceforward, National Park Protection Act. Buffalo Soldiers are African American superintendent of Sequoia and General and forever free.” However, slavery remains legal in entrusted to patrol federal parks and build roads, Grant (now Kings Canyon) National Parks. the rest of the United States. trails, and structures. In Kentucky, Young’s family is one of many who remain The US Army keeps Young out of World War I, then forces him to retire. In June 1918 Young rides his horse from Wilberforce, 1905–09 Ohio, to Washington, DC, to demonstrate his fitness. He is later reinstated and serves as military attaché in Liberia. enslaved despite the Emancipation Proclamation. They use 1896 NIAGARA MOVEMENT the Underground Railroad to reach freedom in Ohio. “SEPARATE BUT EQUAL” W.E.B. Du Bois attracts national attention with this group, The US Supreme Court confirms that separate but which encourages African Americans to seek civil rights 1920 equal facilities are legal for African Americans. The through political action. WOMEN GET THE RIGHT TO VOTE 1865 military’s segregation policies—like assigning Buffalo 13th AMENDMENT RATIFIED Soldiers to separate units—are allowed to continue. “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a The 19th Amendment is ratified 72 years after In 1904 Young becomes the first African American the First Women’s Rights Convention. military attaché, serving in Haiti as a diplomat, historian, punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been and cartographer. duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any 1898–1902 1921 place subject to their jurisdiction.” INTERNATIONAL WARS In 1907 the Youngs purchase a large house in Wilberforce, Late in 1921 Young becomes ill from a kidney infection The United States is at war with Spain in 1898, Ohio, and name it Youngsholm. The house was once used while sailing to Lagos, Nigeria, on an assignment. He 1866 then the Philippines from 1899 to 1902. as a site on the Underground Railroad. dies there on January 8, 1922. Ada receives the news AFRICAN AMERICAN UNITS IN THE ARMY Young serves stateside during the Spanish-American War. He NAACP ESTABLISHED Congress establishes the first segregated leads troops into battle during the Philippine-American War. three weeks later. In 1909 followers of the Niagara Movement join other Afri- US Army units for African Americans. can American activists to found the National Association for Later they are called Buffalo Soldiers. the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). As a cadet at West Point, Young succeeded despite racism from the school and his fellow cadets. Young and his students (cadets) at Wilberforce, around 1895. They hold fraternity banners. Youngsholm was the center of social gatherings. Young is sitting; his mother Arminta, third from left; Ada, second from right. Major Young received the Spingarn Medal for his accomplishments in Liberia as a military attaché, around 1916. In November 2021 Charles Young was posthumously promoted to brigadier general by the secretary of the Army. CHRISTOPHER HENNEN / USMA / US ARMY Buffalo Soldiers 300 Years of Service and Segregation African Americans fight for this country as early as King William’s War (1689–97), which cements British power in America. In 1770 Crispus Attucks—of African and Native American descent—is killed during the Boston Massacre. Over 6,000 African Americans fight in the American Revolution (1775–83); over 200,000 fight for the Union in the Civil War (1861–65). Charles Young’s father Gabriel escapes slavery and serves in the 5th US Colored Heavy Artillery. Martin Delany (below) is the first African American to become an officer. They are among the many whose military service helps them achieve a level of equality impossible as civilians. But full integration in the military takes another century. After the Civil War International Wars Transitions World Wars Military Integration 1866 Onward 1898–1902 1900–20 1917–45 1948–90s In 1866 Congress establishes permanent African American army units to control conflicts between settlers and Native Americans. They are dubbed “Buffalo Soldiers” by Tribes, who liken the soldiers’ dark, curly hair and fierce fighting style to that of a buffalo. Cathay Williams (below) enlists as a man to earn better pay and explore the United States. In the 1898 Spanish-American War, Buffalo Soldiers come to the aid of Theodore Roosevelt and his Rough Riders in Cuba. Major Young serves stateside by preparing other soldiers for battle. The next year, he prepares for the Philippine-American War (1899–1902). Now the rank of captain, he leads troops into battle on several islands. In the Philippines, Buffalo Soldiers lead the way using weapons and military tactics learned from Native Americans—fighting in small groups and striking quickly. In the Mexican Punitive Expedition of 1916, Young uses vehicles and machine guns to chase Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa and earns the rank of lieutenant colonel. In World War I, the US Army keeps the Harlem Hellfighters out of combat. They fight for France instead, becoming the first African American troops to fight in Europe. Montford Point Marines, Triple Nickels, the 761st Tank Battalion, and Tuskegee Airmen combat racial division in the military during World War II. On July 26, 1948, President Truman signs Executive Order 9981, which states everyone in the military is equal “without regard to race, color, religion or national origin.” The last unit of Buffalo Soldiers, the 24th Infantry, disbands in 1951. In the Vietnam and Persian Gulf Wars, African Americans are finally serving in a fully integrated US military. Tuskegee Airmen Cathay Williams as William Cathay Civil War: 4th US Colored Troops Martin Delany LIBRARY OF CONGRESS / WILLIAM MORRIS SMITH NPS Their Legacy Civilian agencies integrate slowly. In the 1960s the National Park Service starts hiring professional park rangers. One is Robert Stanton (below), who becomes the first African American park superintendent since Charles Young and the first African American National Park Service director (1997– 2001). He collaborates with Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., to establish and develop this park. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS / TONI FRISSELL US ARMY / WILLIAM JENNINGS Robert Stanton with Col. Young image NPS Korean War US ARMY HERITAGE AND EDUCATION CENTER Buffalo Soldiers WWll US ARMY HERITAGE AND EDUCATION CENTER NATIONAL ARCHIVES BUFFALO SOLDIERS 9th Regiment, ready to fight in the Philippines FORT HUACHUCA MUSEUM PERSEVERING PATRIOTS HENRY O. FLIPPER The first African American graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point. He endures a controversial court-martial. President Clinton issues a posthumous pardon in 1999. Charles Young excelled as a military officer at a time when African Americans were excluded from most leadership positions in society. He endured racism, hardship, combat, injury, and malaria but always persevered. He hoped he could make a difference— and he did. He supported the careers of many officers who went on to break more barriers. One, Benjamin O. Davis Sr., became the first African American onestar general in the US Army. Davis’s son achieved greatness, too, as described in the “Sphere of Influence” (right). BENJAMIN O. DAVIS JR. The fourth African American to graduate the US Military Academy at West Point and a decorated Tuskegee airman. President Clinton advances Lt. Gen. Davis to the rank of fourstar general. JOHN HANKS ALEXANDER He mentors Young before moving to Wilberforce to start a military program. He dies soon after arrival; Young takes over his duties. NATIONAL ARCHIVES SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE BARACK OBAMA The first African American US president and commander in chief of the military. He establishes Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument in 2013. R C LE OF I NFLU EN C NPS ranger Shelton Johnson portraying a Buffalo Soldier LIBRARY OF CONGRESS / PETE SOUZA E COLIN POWELL A son of immigrants, Powell becomes the first African American to serve as chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and as secretary of state. CI UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT LIBRARIES NPS FAMILY TIES NATIONAL ARCHIVES CHARLES A passion for service and learning, a talent for music and poetry, and a love of horses— Charles Young received these gifts from his parents, Gabriel and Arminta, and his maternal grandmother Julia. After the family settled in Ripley, Ohio, Gabriel started a livery business that provided horse-drawn transportation. He taught Charles how to care for horses­ and encouraged his love of music by hiring a piano tutor. These skills would serve him well throughout his life. YOUNG CULTIVATING CULTURE Charles Young shared his love of music and literature wherever his career took him. He formed military bands at isolated posts and taught soldiers how to play. He and Ada hosted evenings of music and poetry. But Wilberforce, Ohio, was where their cultural life flourished. The town was known for prominent leaders like Martin Delany (above), who practiced medicine and worked for African American civil rights. Other leaders, like W.E.B. Du Bois and Hallie Q. Brown (both at right), followed him here. The town was also home to Laura Smith, who had sheltered travelers on the Underground Railroad. The Youngs may have bought her house because of its history. NATIONAL AFRO-AMERICAN MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER BOOKER T. WASHINGTON Founder of the Tuskegee Institute, he said of Young, “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached … as by the obstacles which he has overcome.” LIBRARY OF CONGRESS / C.E. CHEYNE Youngsholm became a hub for the arts and politics. The Youngs also made their home a place to mentor the next generation of African American leaders. W.E.B. DU BOIS A famed scholar, he said, “If Charles Young’s blood pressure was too high for [combat duty], why was it not too high for him to be sent to the even more arduous duty in the swamps of West Africa?” W.E.B. DU BOIS LIBRARY, UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY as it looked in the early days when it was a college UNIVERSITY LIBRARY, UNC CHAPEL HILL ADA MILLS YOUNG Raised and educated in San Francisco, California, Ada joins her husband as he travels the world. She also becomes a community leader in Wilberforce, Ohio. NATIONAL AFRO-AMERICAN MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER HALLIE Q. BROWN A national leader in African American culture and women’s voting rights. She also teaches at Wilberforce and frequents Youngsholm for political discussions and social events. PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR This famous poet from Dayton, Ohio, often collaborates with Young on music and poetry. After he dies, Young leads efforts to erect a statue in his honor. Julia, who had been one of the first African American teachers in Kentucky, and Arminta tutored Charles. He graduated high school with honors at age 17. At the commencement ceremony, he gave an oration titled “Let There Be Light.” Charles and Ada Young gave these same gifts to their children, Charles Noel and Marie Aurelia, and they shared their passion for service and equality with the world. DAYTON METRO LIBRARY / PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR COLLECTION CHILDREN on horseback at the Young family farm CENTRAL STATE UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES NATIONAL AFRO-AMERICAN MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER WILBERFORCE STUDENTS around 1900 YOUNGSHOLM PORCH Young relaxes with Samuel Pearson; they had served together in the Philippines. NATIONAL AFRO-AMERICAN MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER NATIONAL AFRO-AMERICAN MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER Detail of Wilberforce Historic transom window from Youngsholm. Such windows indicated a prominent household in the community. NPS / CHYO Omega Psi Phi window at Youngsholm. This fraternity of African American leaders protected the home and helped establish this national monument to Buffalo Soldiers and Charles Young. Welcome to Youngsholm NPS / THOMAS ENGBERG MORE INFORMATION Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument 1120 US 42 East Wilberforce, OH 45384 937-352-6757 www.nps.gov/chyo Charles Young’s home is the center of activity for this national monument. We welcome you to visit often. Tours, programs, and events are offered year-round for visitors of all ages. HOW TO GET HERE Youngsholm is in Wilberforce, Ohio, on US 42, one mile west of Wilberforce University and Central State University. Free off-street parking is available. WHAT TO DO Visit Youngsholm to immerse yourself in the life and legacy of Charles Young and the Buffalo Soldiers. Explore exhibits, watch the park film, collect your passport stamp, and browse the bookstore. Check the park website for operating hours and program information. Enjoy a self-guiding walking tour, set on nearly 60 acres of the Youngs’ historic farm. The grounds are open from dawn to dusk. Use the official NPS App to guide your visit. The National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center has artifacts belonging to Charles Young. Visit nearby national parks that share a rich history with Youngsholm (map above). BE SAFE AND PROTECT THE PARK The park is on a US highway. Drive and walk cautiously. • Summers can be hot and humid. Bring water to drink, wear sun protection, and take frequent breaks. • Prevent insect bites and stings by wearing closedtoed shoes and using insect repellent. • In winter sidewalks and steps can be slippery. • Using remotely piloted aircraft like drones is prohibited. • For firearms and other regulations check the park website. Emergencies call 911 ACCESSIBILITY We strive to make facilities, services, and programs accessible to all. For information call or check the park website. Join the park community. www.nationalparks.org IGPO:2025—431-026/84264 Last updated 2025 THE BARN AT YOUNGSHOLM NATIONAL AFRO-AMERICAN MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER Follow us on social media. Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument is one of over 430 parks in the National Park System. Learn about national parks at www.nps.gov.