Vox
July 3, 2026
TL;DR
A Brooklyn neighborhood's surprising history includes a Revolutionary War fort and a woman arrested for wearing pants in 1894, revealing themes of defiance across different eras.
“Mrs. Emily Lund appears in male attire and attracts a large crowd. She is arrested.”
— Historical record
“In a way, defiance is kind of the theme of today's address, but in a very different way.”
— Host
1. Fort Defiance and the Revolutionary War
Fort Defiance was located off the coast of Red Hook and played a role in defending New York during the Battle of Brooklyn in 1776, one of the first major battles after the Declaration of Independence. However, the British ultimately took control of New York and held it through most of the Revolutionary War.
2. Emily Lund's Arrest for Wearing Pants
In 1894, Emily Lund was arrested at 87 Pioneer Street for appearing in male attire and wearing pants, an act that attracted a large crowd and represented a dramatic act of social defiance.
3. The 1910 Baby Parade
In 1910, a baby parade was held in Coffee Park across from 87 Pioneer Street, drawing nearly 2,000 spectators to view approximately 13 babies.