London Bridge is an iconic landmark that has been around for centuries. It has stood the test of time and has witnessed many historical events.
But did you know that the London Bridge was moved to Lake Havasu in Arizona, USA? Yes, you read that right! In this article, we will explore the fascinating story of how this historic bridge ended up in a desert town in America.
The Story Behind London Bridge
The original London Bridge was built in 1209 and served as an essential route across the River Thames in London. The bridge was initially made of wood, but it was later rebuilt with stone to make it more robust and durable. Over the centuries, London Bridge underwent several transformations, and the most notable one was its reconstruction in 1831.
The Sale of London Bridge
In 1962, London Bridge had become too old and dangerous for modern traffic, so it had to be replaced. The British government decided to sell the old bridge to anyone who would buy it. Surprisingly, an American entrepreneur named Robert P. McCulloch bought it for $2.46 million.
At first glance, this might seem like a strange purchase for an American businessman living in Arizona. However, McCulloch had a grand vision for the bridge – he wanted to use it as a tourist attraction and as a centerpiece for his new real estate development project.
The Move to Lake Havasu
Moving a 130-year-old bridge from one continent to another is no easy feat. To ensure its safe transport, each of the bridge’s stones was numbered so that they could be reassembled correctly on arrival.
In 1967, after three years of planning and preparation, the disassembled stone by stone London Bridge began its journey across the Atlantic Ocean on board a cargo ship named “The Lord Nelson.” After arriving at Long Beach Harbor in California, the bridge sections were shipped to Lake Havasu City, where they were reassembled over a period of three years.
The Legacy of London Bridge in Lake Havasu
Today, London Bridge is a popular tourist attraction in Lake Havasu City. Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy stunning views of the lake and surrounding desert landscape. The area around the bridge has been developed into an English-style village, complete with shops, restaurants, and even a pub that was shipped over from England.
The move of London Bridge to Lake Havasu is a testament to human ingenuity and determination. It’s hard to believe that this historic landmark was once in danger of being dismantled and forgotten. Instead, it found a new home where it continues to inspire awe and wonder among visitors from all over the world.
- In conclusion, while it might seem unusual that an iconic British landmark now calls Arizona home, London Bridge’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Its move across the Atlantic Ocean was a feat of engineering, and its reassembly in Lake Havasu is a testament to human perseverance.
- So if you ever find yourself in Arizona, be sure to visit this incredible piece of history that has found a new lease on life in the American desert.
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