One Man. Two Legacies.
One Trusted Name.
Rooted in rural Virginia. Trusted across industries.
John Pennington is a man of uncommon depth. He is a modern-day cattleman, excavation specialist, and quiet pioneer whose life’s work spans over three decades. With one hand in the soil and the other guiding future genetics, John is the founder of two highly respected Virginia-based businesses: Monomoy Services, Inc. and Monomoy Farm Services, Inc.
Whether shaping landscapes for elite estates or cultivating a herd of nationally recognized Black Angus cattle, John’s work is grounded in experience, trustworthiness, and excellence.
A Monomoy Services farm project in Rappahannock County, featured on the cover of Architectural Digest
Exclusive Services
-
Monomoy Services, Inc. — Excavation with Integrity
Based in Marshall, Virginia, Monomoy Services has grown from a one-man operation with a single backhoe to a 28-employee team executing specialized, high-end excavation projects. From lakes and wetlands to polo fields and precision grading, John and his crew bring care, craft, and capability to every job.
-
Monomoy Farm Services, Inc. — Genetics with Purpose
On a 73-acre farm in Warrenton, Virginia, John Pennington raises a carefully bred herd of registered Angus cattle. With a deep understanding of genomic selection and decades of hands-on experience, his animals are sought-after nationwide for their elite maternal traits, outstanding movement, and economic value.
Uncover Our Story
Why “Monomoy”?
The name “Monomoy” comes from the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge—more than 7,000 acres of protected coastal wilderness in Chatham, Massachusetts.
John has long admired the area for its rugged beauty, quiet strength, and the way it preserves what matters most. He first named the farm after it in 1983 and later extended the name to his business.
Like the refuge itself, both of John’s businesses are rooted in a deep respect for the land, for life, and for lasting quality.
John Pennington’s journey is rooted in hard work, quiet determination, and a deep respect for the land. Raised in Warrenton, Virginia, his love for farming began as a boy tagging along to cattle auctions with his grandfather and working summers on his uncle’s 200-acre Shenandoah Valley farm.
After earning an English degree from the University of Virginia and a few years teaching and coaching in Virginia and Florida, John shifted into construction and eventually returned to Virginia to manage farmland and start a family.
In 1990, he launched Monomoy Services, Inc. with a single backhoe and an entrepreneurial spirit.
His passion for Angus cattle led him to start Monomoy Farm Services, known for producing top-tier animals.
Whether moving earth or managing embryos, John brings the same excellence and deep care to both of his businesses.
Client Reviews
“The pond is now holding water and at present time appears to be restored and operating normally. This would not have been possible with the dedication, determination, expertise and knowledge of Jason, James and the entire crew. We greatly appreciate all the hard work Monomoy has done for us over the years, as we have cultivated and improved Old Dogwood Hill Farm. Please extend our gratitude and appreciation to Jason and your crew at Monomoy.”
Mike Silver, Old Dogwood Hill Farm
“On behalf of the entire Foxcroft community, I want to thank you for your exceptional work in the construction of Stuart Hall. Everyone who worked with you praises your masterful work and your going the extra mile.
Last week we learned that the building achieved Gold status under the LEED program. Know that you share in a piece of that great news.
I am personally and professionally most grateful.”
Mary Louise Leipheimer, Head of School, Foxcroft School
“I'm enclosing a check for $--- to cover your just-concluded enlargement of our pond, with our best wishes and thanks for (once again) a job that was extremely well-done.
Lucy and I are thrilled, and can't praise you and your crew-- Dwayne, George and Jason-- too highly. We will think of Monomoy every time we look out at our pretty little pond.”
Greg Rushford
“I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for the wonderful work done by Roger and your employees on my road at Swayback Lane. Thank God the roller coaster days are behind me now. I honestly did not know that such a transformation was possible.”
Blair Howard
