The London Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in England. Built in the 19th century, it has been an important transportation route across the River Thames for over 200 years.
However, there has been a persistent myth that the bridge actually collapsed at some point in its history. So, did the London Bridge actually collapse? Let’s dive into the facts and find out.
The Myth of the London Bridge Collapse
The story goes that in 1831, a strong wind caused the London Bridge to collapse into the River Thames. According to this myth, several people were killed and injured, and it took several years to rebuild the bridge. This story has been retold for generations and has become a part of popular folklore in England.
The Truth About the London Bridge Collapse
However, this myth is simply not true. The London Bridge did not collapse in 1831 or at any other point in its history. In fact, there is no record of any major damage to the bridge until it was dismantled in 1967.
So where did this myth come from? It is believed that it originated from a confusion with another bridge – the Old London Bridge. This bridge was built in medieval times and was made up of narrow arches that restricted water flow, causing flooding upstream during heavy rainfall.
In 1281 and again in 1633, parts of the Old London Bridge did indeed collapse due to flooding. However, these collapses were not caused by high winds or structural failure but rather by natural disasters.
The Legacy of the London Bridge
Despite not having collapsed as folklore suggests, the London Bridge has had a significant impact on English history and culture. It has been featured prominently in literature and art throughout history and continues to be an important symbol of England’s heritage.
Today, visitors can walk across a modern version of the bridge that was built in the 1970s. It is a popular tourist destination and continues to be an important transportation route across the River Thames.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there is a persistent myth that the London Bridge collapsed in 1831, this is simply not true. The bridge has stood for over 200 years and has never experienced a major collapse. While it may not have collapsed as folklore suggests, it remains an important part of England’s history and culture.