This house, now named Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument, possesses national significance as this is the home of Colonel Charles Young!
Born enslaved March 12, 1964, Colonel Charles Young was the highest-ranking African American line officer most of his career. He became the third Black graduate of West Point in 1889 and the last until 1936. Young served as Professor of Military Science at Wilberforce University. During the Spanish American War, Young led 9th Calvary troops in the combat in the Philippines.
The first African-American national park superintendent, Young supervised the building of roads for public access to Sequoia and General Grant national parks and protected the natural wonders there.
The first Black military attache, Young served in Haiti and Liberia. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People awarded Young its highest honor, the Spingarn Medal, for his accomplishment in Liberia.
Young commanded troops in the Mexican Punitive Expedition and was recommended for promotion and a command in Europe during World War 1. Instead, he was involuntarily retired.
President Wilson believed some White officers would refuse to serve under a Black commander. Young was classified unfit for medical reasons though Army doctors recommended he be permitted to serve.
To prove his fitness, Young rode horseback from Wilberforce to Washington, but was reinstated too late to be promoted the the first Black general or to command troops in Europe. Sent back to Africa, Young died in Nigeria January 8, 1922, and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
American Legion posts across the country were named in his honor. Among the men Young mentored was Benjamin O. Davis, Sr., the first Black general.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity purchased and rehabilitated this house, the home of their revered brother Colonel Charles Young.
Address.
1120 US-42, Xenia, Ohio 45385
Hours.
Unfortunately, the monument is not open for regular visitation hours. Tours are available by appointment only. Call them through the visitor information line 937-352-6757 to schedule a tour.
Other nearby attractions.
National African-American Museum and Cultural Center – Showcases the stories of African Americans from their African origins to the current day.
Adena Mound at Indian Mound Reserve Park – This is an Adena Indian Mound built approximately 500 B.C.
Cedar Cliff Falls and Massie Creek Gorge – Once you are at the Adena Indian Mound, include the hike through the 169-acre park of Cedar Cliff Falls.
See also: My other travel adventures in the USA.
See also: List of National Parks.
See more travel search tags: Ohio Travel, Ohio, Western Ohio, Travel Western Ohio, Nature Preserve, Wright Brothers, Ohio Attractions, Things to See in Ohio, Unique Things To See in Ohio, Places to See in Ohio, Parks in Ohio
