A History of Brooklyn In 20 Objects (“Objects” Being Very Loosely Defined)
17) “Red Legged Devils”
The 14th Military Regiment from the great city of Brooklyn was an all-volunteer militia regiment—primarily made up from abolitionists—that was created during the Civil War. Brooklyn was a much more fervent supporter of the Union and the abolitionist movement than its craven neighbor, New York. The men of the 14th fought in some of the bloodiest battles of the War and were known for their resolute and orderly nature and their all-red trousers. Today, the Armory in Park Slope has a statue honoring the 14th Regiment for their tenacity and lofty cause.