If you’ve ever visited Lake Havasu City in Arizona, you may have noticed an unusual landmark, the London Bridge. Yes, that’s right, the London Bridge, the iconic bridge that spans the River Thames in the heart of London, England. But how did a bridge that once stood in London end up in the middle of a desert in Arizona? Let’s take a journey through history and find out.
To understand the story of the London Bridge, we have to go back to the early 19th century when the original bridge was built in London. The bridge was made of stone and had stood for over 600 years, but by the mid-20th century, it was showing signs of wear and tear. In 1962, the decision was made to replace the old bridge with a modern one, and the London Bridge was put up for sale.
It was an American entrepreneur named Robert P. McCulloch who purchased the bridge for $2.46 million and decided to move it from London to Lake Havasu City, which he was developing as a tourist destination. The task of dismantling the bridge and shipping it to Arizona was a monumental one, but it was accomplished over several years, with each block of stone numbered and carefully transported across the Atlantic.
In 1971, the London Bridge was officially opened in Lake Havasu City, where it became a major attraction and a symbol of the city’s growth and development. Despite initial skepticism from some, the bridge quickly became a beloved landmark, drawing visitors from around the world.
Today, the London Bridge still stands in Lake Havasu City, having undergone several renovations and improvements over the years. Visitors can take a guided tour of the bridge and learn about its history, or simply stroll across it and take in the stunning views of the Colorado River.
One interesting fact about the London Bridge is that it’s not the only famous bridge to have been moved from one location to another. In fact, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco was once considered for relocation to Lake Havasu City, but ultimately the idea was deemed too expensive and impractical.
Another fun fact is that the London Bridge in Arizona is often confused with the more famous Tower Bridge in London, which is a different bridge altogether. The Tower Bridge is often mistakenly referred to as the London Bridge, but in fact, it’s a separate bridge located just down the river from the original London Bridge.
The story of the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, is a fascinating one that speaks to the power of human ingenuity and perseverance. From its roots in medieval London to its current status as a beloved landmark in the American Southwest, the London Bridge serves as a reminder of the many wonders that can be accomplished with hard work and determination. So if you ever find yourself in Lake Havasu City, be sure to check out this incredible piece of history – it’s truly a sight to behold!
