Have you ever heard of the London Bridge in Arizona? If not, you might be surprised to know that a piece of British history was relocated to the United States in 1967. In this article, we explore the fascinating story behind why the London Bridge got moved to Arizona.
The Original London Bridge
The original London Bridge was a famous structure that spanned across the River Thames in London, England. It was completed in 1831 and became an iconic symbol of the city. However, by the mid-20th century, it had become too weak to handle modern traffic and needed to be replaced.
Planning for a New Bridge
In 1962, it was decided that a new bridge would be constructed downstream from the original one. This meant that the old bridge needed to be dismantled and removed. But what would happen to its pieces?
Enter Robert P. McCulloch
Robert P. McCulloch was an American entrepreneur who had made his fortune through chainsaws and other industrial tools. He was also an avid collector of antiques and had a fascination with British history.
When he heard that the London Bridge was going to be dismantled, he saw an opportunity. He purchased it for $2.46 million and had it shipped overseas to Lake Havasu City in Arizona.
The Relocation Process
The relocation process was no easy feat. Each stone block of the bridge was carefully numbered so that it could be reassembled later on. The blocks were then transported by ship through the Panama Canal before finally arriving at their new home in Arizona.
Once all of the blocks were accounted for, they were reassembled over a period of three years at Lake Havasu City. The new bridge officially opened on October 10th, 1971.
The London Bridge Today
Today, the London Bridge in Arizona is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can walk across the bridge and admire its beautiful architecture and intricate details. The area surrounding the bridge has also been transformed into a bustling entertainment district with shops, restaurants, and hotels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the story behind why the London Bridge got moved to Arizona is an interesting one. Thanks to Robert P. McCulloch’s vision and determination, a piece of British history was able to find a new home in the United States. Today, the London Bridge serves as a reminder of both London’s rich history and Lake Havasu City’s unique charm.