The nation's Yorktown victory in October 1781 provided only brief respite for Harrison, age 55, who began to serve on November 30 as the fifth Governor of Virginia.
He was also the fourth governor to assume the office in that year–the multiple successions were occasioned by wartime events in Virginia.
Money was the primary problem that he confronted, as the war had drained the coffers of the Virginia treasury, and the government was plagued by creditors, both domestic and foreign.
It was clear that there was no capacity for military action outside of the immediate area, so Harrison steadfastly opposed offensive action against Indians in the Kentucky and Illinois country.
He alternatively pursued a policy of treating with the Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Creek Indian tribes, which allowed peace to last for the remainder of his term.
The situation resulted in some contentious exchanges with General George Rogers Clark who urged offensive operations in the west.

As Harrison's term was ending, Washington accepted an invitation to visit with the Harrisons in Richmond, saying, "And I shall feel an additional pleasure, in offering this tribute of friendship and respect to you, by having the company of Marsqs.
de la Fayette...." The general made his visit in November 1784, though Lafayette was unable to accompany him.
Harrison's service as governor was lauded, despite his inability to solve the commonwealth's financial problems which plagued his administration.
The nation's Yorktown victory in October 1781 provided only brief respite for Harrison, age 55, who began to serve on November 30 as the fifth Governor of Virginia. He was also the fourth governor to assume the office in that year–the multiple successions were occasioned by wartime events in Virginia. Money was the primary problem that he confronted, as the war had drained the coffers of the Virginia treasury, and the government was plagued by creditors, both domestic and foreign. It was clear that there was no capacity for military action outside of the immediate area, so Harrison steadfastly opposed offensive action against Indians in the Kentucky and Illinois country. He alternatively pursued a policy of treating with the Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Creek Indian tribes, which allowed peace to last for the remainder of his term. The situation resulted in some contentious exchanges with General George Rogers Clark who urged offensive operations in the west.
As Harrison's term was ending, Washington accepted an invitation to visit with the Harrisons in Richmond, saying, "And I shall feel an additional pleasure, in offering this tribute of friendship and respect to you, by having the company of Marsqs. de la Fayette...." The general made his visit in November 1784, though Lafayette was unable to accompany him. Harrison's service as governor was lauded, despite his inability to solve the commonwealth's financial problems which plagued his administration.
Benjamin Harrison V