(Daily Signal)—Travis Bowman is a seventh-generation descendant of one of America’s most remarkable yet overlooked Revolutionary War heroes: Peter Francisco, known as “The Virginia Giant.”
During a recent visit to Washington, D.C., Bowman visited The Daily Signal to share the incredible tale of Francisco’s life: from his mysterious beginnings in the Azores, to his kidnapping by pirates and arrival on Virginia’s shores, to becoming a 6’6″ towering figure in America’s fight for independence.
Upon arriving in Virginia, Francisco was taken in by Patrick Henry’s uncle, Judge Anthony Winston in Buckingham County, working as an indentured servant. He would later grow to become such a formidable warrior that Gen. George Washington had a special 6-foot broadsword forged for him.
Recalling stories of his famous ancestor, Bowman discusses Francisco’s legendary feats, including the famous Battle of Guilford Courthouse, where his prowess in combat is commemorated by a monument to this day.
Today, Francisco’s legacy lives on through seven monuments, state holidays, and even a 1976 bicentennial stamp. He’s also the main character of historical novel “Luso: For Love, Liberty and Legacy.”
With America’s 250th anniversary on the horizon in 2026, Bowman shares plans for a nine-episode miniseries based on his novel that aims to bring this Revolutionary War story to the screen.
