During the Revolutionary War, Penn advanced to the rank of Colonel and in the winter of 1780-1781, organized the only body of Revolutionary troops from Henry and adjoining counties. He led his regiment to join General Nathaniel Greene in North Carolina, March 1781. Later he and his troops joined General Greene in defense of the Carolinas, fought in the Battle of Eutaw Springs, and continued in service through the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown.

     Commissioned by the Governor, he administered State and Federal oaths to the officers of Patrick County at its first court, June 1791. In the early years of the county, Abram Penn and seven of his sons served as "Gentlemen Justices." In June 1801, Abram Penn was buried in the family cemetery at his home, "Poplar Grove." The November 1965 issue of the DAR Magazine contained an article, "Colonel Abram Penn, Virginia Patriot," by chapter member, Miss Sydney Penn.
 
 

updated 03-09-2005