In the 1960s, the London Bridge was beginning to show signs of aging and wear. The structure was no longer able to handle the growing traffic demands of the city and a decision was made to replace it with a newer, more modern bridge.
But what happened to the old London Bridge? Well, it was sold!
Yes, you read that right. The London Bridge was sold in 1968 to an unlikely buyer – Robert McCulloch, an American businessman and entrepreneur. But why would someone want to buy an old bridge?
The Story Behind the Purchase
Robert McCulloch had made his fortune through various business ventures, including creating chainsaws and developing a new type of drill bit. He was also an avid collector of antiques and historical artifacts.
When he learned that the old London Bridge was going up for sale, he saw it as an opportunity to add something unique and historic to his collection. He purchased the bridge for $2.46 million (which is equivalent to over $18 million today) and had it dismantled brick by brick.
The Journey Across the Atlantic
After being dismantled, each brick of the London Bridge was numbered and transported across the Atlantic Ocean to Lake Havasu City in Arizona where it would be reconstructed.
The task of reassembling such a massive structure proved challenging but eventually, after three years of work, the bridge was finally reconstructed in its new home in Lake Havasu City.
The New Life of London Bridge
The London Bridge became a major attraction for visitors coming to see this unique piece of history in a desert oasis. It soon became one of Arizona’s most popular tourist destinations.
Today, visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy stunning views of Lake Havasu as well as explore several shops and restaurants located nearby.
Conclusion
Although it may seem strange that someone would buy an old bridge, the story of the London Bridge is a testament to the power of historical artifacts and their ability to capture our imagination. The fact that an American businessman was willing to spend millions of dollars to purchase, transport, and reconstruct a piece of London’s history in the middle of the Arizona desert is a testament to the enduring power of iconic structures.
The London Bridge may no longer be in its original home, but it has found new life as a symbol of history and perseverance.
10 Related Question Answers Found
London Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom, but did you know that it has a dark history? The nursery rhyme “London Bridge is Falling Down” has been sung by children for generations, but what exactly is the story behind it? The History of London Bridge
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London Bridge is Falling Down: The Mysterious Story Behind the Popular Nursery Rhyme
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London Bridge Is Falling Down is one of the most popular nursery rhymes that has been sung for generations. The melody of this song is catchy and easy to remember, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike. However, the true meaning behind this song is often overlooked.
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London Bridge Is Falling Down is a popular nursery rhyme that has been sung by children for centuries. It is a catchy tune with a simple melody, but have you ever wondered what the true meaning of the song is? In this article, we will explore the history and theories behind London Bridge Is Falling Down.
