in the spring of 1776, tipton, who had aligned with the growing patriot cause, represented dunmore county at the virginia conventions. he was elected to the virginia house of delegates that year, where he served from 1776 to 1777, and from 1778 to 1781. in 1777, he was reappointed justice of the peace by governor patrick henry. two years later, he was appointed recruiting officer for the continental army's virginia line. in 1780, he was appointed commissioner of the provision of law by governor thomas jefferson. as principal officer of the shenandoah militia during the war, he obtained the title of colonel.