The Peter Francisco Story
Virginia history buffs and educators will be interested in learning more about the legendary “Hercules of the Revolution” or the “Virginia Giant” as Peter Francisco was often called. He was a man of great height and endowed with tremendous strength. George Washington even claimed that the Revolutionary War would likely have been lost without his “One-Man Army”, as he labeled him.
Peter Francisco had a mysterious and unlikely arrival to Virginia soil. He was found at the tender age of five, wandering the docks of City Point (Hopewell, Virginia) wearing soiled but finely-made clothing and silver buckled shoes. It is believed he had been kidnapped by pirates from a wealthy family in the Azores. His mother tongue was Portuguese and he told everyone his name was “Pedro Francisco.” Thus begins the fascinating tale of Peter Francisco whose life intertwined with the birth of a new nation.
The Peter Francisco Story will be broadcast on Sunday, July 3 at 12:30 to 1:00 pm on WCVE PBS.
SOLs: History/Social Science - VS.5b, VS.5c, USI.6c, USI.6d, VUS.4d
Peter Francisco’s life story crisscrosses all over the east coast but especially his home state of Virginia. What historic markers or monuments have you seen?
What a great feature! Francisco's exploits are the stuff of history and legend. First saw the marker for "Francisco's Fight" on SR360 between Amelia and Crewe about 16 years ago and became more familiar with his exploits. Thanks for this program!
Thank you for your great comment and observation! Even though Peter Francisco lived in Virginia 200 years ago, he left a lasting legacy. Did you know he is buried in Shockoe Hill Cemetery in Richmond? Click on this link to a map indicating important Peter Francisco events: http://bit.ly/jVvjDL
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