His Majesty's 14th Regiment of Foot,
Grenadiers in America
Resources
A Brief History of the 14th
The 14th Regiment of Foot, later known as the Prince of Wales’s Own and now part of the Yorkshire Regiment, played a significant role in the American War of Independence. It served in North America from 1768 to 1776.
Key Events and Roles:
Boston Riots (Massacre) (1770):
The 14th Regiment was stationed in Boston during the tragic event that led to the so-called Boston Massacre.
St Vincent (1772):
The Regiment was sent to St. Vincent in the West Indies to help suppress a maroon rebellion.
Virginia (1775-1776):
Part of the 14th Regiment was sent to Virginia and placed under the command of Lord Dunmore. The 14th was primarily garrisoned in Norfolk during this period. Its role was to assist Lord Dunmore to reestablish royal control.
Battle of Great Bridge (1775):
The 14th Regiment’s Grenadiers suffered heavy losses in a failed attempt to secure a critical bridge from Patriot forces. After this battle, the British would abandon Norfolk.
New York and New Jersey Campaign (1776): The Regiment was involved in the New York and New Jersey campaign, where its remaining men were used to reinforce other units.
England (December 1776):
Officers & Colours would return to England to recruit for the Regiment and gradually converted to Light Companies of the 6th and 14th Regiments.
Rifle Company Experiment (1777):
In 1777, one company each from the 14th and 15th Regiments were sent to America under Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Ferguson to test the concept of the rifle company utilizing the ‘Ferguson Rifle’.
Post War:
The 14th Regiment of Foot continued its service after the Revolutionary War, participating in campaigns in Europe and India and undergoing several name changes throughout its long history.