Who Destroyed London Bridge?

By Robert Palmer

London Bridge is a renowned historical landmark that has been standing tall for centuries. However, it is not uncommon for old structures to undergo wear and tear, leading to the need for repairs and sometimes even reconstruction.

But what about the question of who destroyed London Bridge? Let’s explore the fascinating history behind this iconic structure.

The Original London Bridge

The first London Bridge was built by the Romans around AD 50 and was made of wood. This bridge was rebuilt several times over the centuries until it was reconstructed in stone by Peter of Colechurch in 1176.

The Great Fire of London

In 1666, a devastating fire swept through London, destroying many buildings including parts of the bridge. However, it was not completely destroyed and was repaired in the years that followed.

Jack Cade’s Rebellion

Another event that caused damage to London Bridge was Jack Cade’s rebellion in 1450. Cade led a group of rebels into London and attacked several prominent buildings and structures including the bridge.

The Modern Day London Bridge

The most recent version of London Bridge dates back to the 1970s when the previous structure had become too weak to support modern traffic demands. The current bridge is a modern design featuring box steel girders and reinforced concrete piers.

Misconceptions about Destruction

There are many misconceptions about who destroyed London Bridge. One such story is that it was dismantled piece by piece and sold off to an American entrepreneur named Robert P. McCulloch who then had it reconstructed in Arizona, USA as a tourist attraction. However, this is not true as McCulloch actually purchased a different bridge known as Tower Bridge which he then transported to Arizona.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there have been events throughout history that caused damage to London Bridge, the structure was never completely destroyed. The current version of the bridge stands proud and strong, a testament to the enduring nature of this iconic landmark.