The American Civil War Museum–Appomattox is pleased to host the Appomattox Petersburg Preservation Society for their lecture, “Peter Francisco: A Revolutionary Giant.”

When he joined the Continental Army in 1776 at age 16, Francisco reportedly stood 6’6″ and weighed 260 lbs. A larger-than-life figure of the American Revolution, he was known for his incredible feats of strength and bravery in battle. Francisco served under prominent figures including the Marquis de Lafayette, Nathanael Greene, “Mad” Anthony Wayne, and George Washington. Many humorous stories of his remarkable feats of strength have also been passed down.

Patrick Schroeder is a historian, author, researcher, and tour guide who has served as Historian at Appomattox Court House National Historical Park since 2002. He holds an M.A. in Civil War History from Virginia Tech and has written, edited, or contributed to more than 25 Civil War books. His 1993 book, Thirty Myths About Lee’s Surrender, is now in its 15th printing. A longtime advocate for battlefield preservation, Patrick has worked with organizations including the American Battlefield Trust and the Appomattox-Petersburg Preservation Society.