London Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, but did you know that it was once relocated to Arizona? Yes, you read that right! In this article, we will explore the fascinating story behind why London Bridge was moved to Lake Havasu City in Arizona.
The Original London Bridge
London Bridge has a long and storied history dating back over 2,000 years. The original bridge was constructed by the Romans in AD 50 and was made of timber. Over the years, the bridge underwent several renovations and reconstructions until it was finally replaced with a stone structure in 1831.
The Need for a New Bridge
By the mid-20th century, it became clear that London Bridge could no longer handle the increasing traffic demands. The bridge had become congested with cars and pedestrians, making it difficult for people to cross safely. The city needed a new bridge that could handle more traffic.
The Sale of London Bridge
In 1967, London officials decided to put the old bridge up for sale and invited bids from interested parties. Surprisingly, an American businessman named Robert P. McCulloch won the bid with an offer of $2.5 million.
McCulloch’s Vision
McCulloch had big plans for the old bridge. He envisioned relocating it to Lake Havasu City in Arizona and turning it into a tourist attraction for his new development project. He believed that bringing a piece of British history to America would be a massive draw for tourists.
The Move
Moving such a massive structure wasn’t going to be easy. Engineers had to disassemble each stone block from the original structure and number them so they could be reassembled correctly later on. The blocks were then shipped across the Atlantic Ocean and transported by truck from California to Arizona.
Lake Havasu City
When the bridge arrived in Lake Havasu City, it was reassembled on a reinforced concrete structure. The bridge now serves as a pedestrian walkway and a popular tourist attraction for the city, drawing visitors from all over the world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, London Bridge’s move to Arizona is a fascinating story that highlights the power of entrepreneurship and vision. While some may have thought that moving such an iconic structure was crazy, McCulloch’s vision has proven to be a successful one. Today, London Bridge in Arizona stands as a testament to human ingenuity and determination.