Bristow

Bristow was originally called Bristoe Station in the 1860s in recognition of the fact that a railway station had been built there. During the Civil War, battles were fought at nearby Kettle Run in 1862 and in Bristoe Station itself in 1863. The town was renamed Bristow in 1906.

Most of the land that is now Bristow was once part of the Linton’s Ford Plantation which had been owned by the Linton family since the 18th century. Sarah Linton converted to Catholicism in 1894, becoming a Benedictine nun. At that point, she donated her entire plantation to the church to be used to build schools for poor children.

Instead, the Linton Hall Military School was established in 1922. The school ceased its military and boarding programs in 1989, becoming the coeducational Linton Hall School. It remains a private, Catholic school located off Linton Hall Road, the main thoroughfare through Bristow and Gainesville.

In the 1990s, the Benedictine nuns began selling off the land to developers, transforming Bristow into a sought-after residential area.

The local economy in Bristow benefits from its proximity to Washington, D.C., with many residents commuting to the capital for work. The economy is diverse, with key sectors including retail, real estate, and professional services. The growth of shopping centers and business parks, such as the nearby Virginia Gateway, has bolstered local employment opportunities. Additionally, the presence of tech companies and federal contractors in the broader Northern Virginia region has positively impacted Bristow’s economic landscape.

Education in Bristow is served by the Prince William County Public Schools system. Notable schools include Patriot High School, Battlefield High School, Marsteller Middle School, Bristow Run Elementary and Victory Elementary. While Battlefield is in Haymarket, a number of Bristow students are bussed there.

Bristow’s real estate market is characterized by a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. The housing stock includes well-maintained properties that appeal to families and professionals. The community features a range of architectural styles, from traditional colonials to modern designs.

Home prices have been steadily rising, reflecting the area’s popularity and proximity to the D.C. metropolitan area. New developments and planned communities continue to emerge, catering to the growing demand for housing. In June, 2024, 34 homes were sold for a median price of $717,500, a 4% increase when compared with June, 2023. While million dollar homes certainly exist, they are the exception rather than the rule since home prices are less than half of what they are in Great Falls and McLean for similar properties.

Transportation options in Bristow are well-developed, with access to major highways such as Interstate 66 and Route 28 facilitating commutes to Washington, D.C. and surrounding areas. The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) offers a convenient rail service with stations in nearby communities, providing an alternative to driving. Local bus services and well-maintained roads further support mobility within the area. Ongoing infrastructure improvements aim to enhance connectivity and accommodate the region’s growth.

Bristow boasts a strong sense of community with a range of amenities that enhance the quality of life for its residents. The area is home to numerous parks and recreational facilities, including the popular Rippon Lodge Historic Site and the scenic Lake Manassas. Community events, such as farmers' markets and local festivals, foster engagement and local pride. The Virginia Gateway shopping center offers diverse retail and dining options, while smaller local businesses provide additional services and goods.

For those who enjoy wine, there are more than a dozen wineries within an hour’s drive of Bristow, including the Vint Hill Craft Winery in Warrenton, the Winery at Bull Run in Centreville, the Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm in Gainesville, and the Winery at La Grange in Haymarket–all a 30-minute drive or less.

Bristow is also a short drive from Conway Robinson State Forest in Gainesville where one can walk for miles on maintained trails. The Manassas National Battlefield Park is less than 9 miles from Bristow where many more miles of trails can be found.

In summary, Bristow, Virginia, represents a dynamic blend of suburban living with easy access to urban conveniences. Its growing population, rich history, and diverse economy contribute to its appeal as a desirable place to live and work. With strong educational institutions, a robust housing market, and a range of transportation options, Bristow continues to attract families and professionals seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.