Shadrach Barns was born on 6 February 1764 in Culpeper County, Virginia. 

He began his service in the United States on 1 March 1788, under Captain John Higanbottom, and was commanded by Colonel Taylor. He served as a Private in the Albemarle County, Virginia militia as a substitute for his father, Francis Barns. He substituted himself several times for different individuals who were each selected by the draft. During his service, he served tours under Captain William Stanton and Colonel Thornton in Culpeper County at Culpeper Court House. They marched to Holt's Forge on the Rappahannock River near Fredericksburg, where they joined the troops at Westham above Richmond under Lieutenant Thurman. They marched below Richmond and entered an old Fort, joining a company under Captain Pollard in Culpeper County. Later, they marched near Petersburg, where they joined the Army commanded by General Muhlenberg and General Steuben under Colonel James Slaughter’s command. He was also in the skirmish at Petersburg with the British and at the Raccoon Ford, where General Wayne joined his unit. They then marched to the James River and joined Captain Browning and Colonel Allcock's Regiment. During his service, he entered three-month tours under Captain Lillard, Captain Reed, and Captain Yancy for the last time. He was present during this tour at the siege of York and was finally discharged verbally in November 1781 near Winchester Barracks by Captain Yancy. In his pension, he stated that he had forgotten the names of the persons for whom he substituted himself, except his father and a man named Beasley.

Generals Washington and Lafayette were present during the siege of York. Colonel Edmonds was in charge of the Regiment to which Shadrach belonged, and General Stevens was in charge of the Brigade during the siege. Shadrach served as a Sergeant for the last three months of his service, while the rest of the time, he served as a private in the Virginia militia, selected by division or classes.

He was married to Frances Mozingo on 18 May 1786 in Culpeper County. Among their known children:

• Graven was born in 1786 and married Mary Howard.
• Sarah Elizabeth was born about 1787 and married Abraham Wise.
• Anne Caroline was born about 1790 and married Daniel Farley.
• Shadrack was born on 4 May 1798 and married Elizabeth Ballou.

After the Revolutionary War, his life took a new turn. He moved to Bourbon County, Kentucky, thence to Woodford County, and thence to Gallatin County, where he resided until his death. Trimble County was formed from portions of Gallatin, Henry, and Oldham in 1837. This journey after the war, from one place to another, reflects the changes and challenges he faced in his life.

The Patriot died on 31 December 1844 in Gallatin County, Kentucky.

Sources:

1. Revolutionary War Pension file S30840