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Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park. Photograph by Jim Lewis |
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park is one of Prince William County's most treasured open spaces. This peaceful landscape features more than 2.7 miles of walking and equestrian trails. Wildlife abounds in the fields, woods and ponds. Evidence of people who occupied this land remains in the park's road traces, buildings and cemeteries.
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This land endured significant military activity during the Civil War. Soldiers camped here in 1861 and 1862. Federal and Confederate armies clashed here at the Battle of Kettle Run on Aug. 27, 1862 when Gen. "Stonewall" Jackson's Confederate forces raided Federal supplies at Manassas Junction. Gen. Joseph Hooker's Federal troops attacked Jackson's rear guard, led by Gen. Richard Ewell, along Kettle Run. Ewell's troops fought Hooker's men then withdrew. On Aug. 28-30, Ewell's forces faced Federal troops again during Second Manassas. You can follow the path of the battle on this Bristoe Station Battle Map. |
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In October and November 1863, Gen. Robert E. Lee's Confederate army and Maj. Gen. George Meade's Federal forces fought a series of battles known as the Bristoe Campaign.
The October 14, 1863 Battle of Bristoe Station was one of these battles. Here, Lt. Gen. A.P. Hill's Confederate corps stumbled upon Gen. Gouverneur Warren's Federal troops posted at the Orange & Alexandria Railroad. The Federals fiercely defended their position, inflicted heavy Confederate casualties and captured a battery of Confederate artillery. Hill's defeat effectively halted Lee's Bristoe offensive. |
“Attack on Bristoe Station” by Alfred A. Waugh,
Harper’s Weekly, Nov. 7, 1863. |
In 2000, Centex Homes purchased this land. Two years later, Centex Homes developed New Bristow Village and gave the battlefield parcel to the Civil War Preservation Trust. Prince William County acquired the 133-acre site in 2007. This park demonstrates how developers, residents, preservationists and local governments can work together to save historic resources.
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Artillery at Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park.
Photograph by Avery Born |
Visitors are invited to enjoy the A.P. Hill’s Folly self-guided walking trail. Stops along the trail highlight facets of the Oct. 14, 1863 Battle of Bristoe Station. For your reference, you may print A.P. Hill's Folly Guide, page 1 and A.P. Hill's Folly Guide, page 2. Printed copies of the trail guide and battle map are also available at the Visitor Information kiosk located at the park.
We also offer the Kettle Run Trail Guide to follow the events of the Battle of Kettle Run. This was the first battle at Bristoe Station. It centered around the railroad. |
Volunteer Opportunity
We are looking for Civil War and Nature Enthusiasts to help with tours at this beautiful site. If you are interested in joining our team to protect the historic and natural resources of our community, please contact us. There is more information on our Bristoe Volunteer Flyer.
Visiting Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park
Park grounds and trails are open every day from sunrise to sunset, free of charge. Guided tours are offered by appointment. No restroom, concessions or camping facilities are available on site.
For information about the park or to schedule a guided tour, call 703-257-5243. You may also reference the Bristoe Information Card for directions and details.
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