Welcome to Lake Havasu City in Arizona, home to the famous London Bridge. Yes, you heard that right! This isn’t the iconic Tower Bridge from London, but rather the historic London Bridge that once spanned the River Thames. Its journey from England to Arizona is a tale of engineering, entrepreneurship, and a touch of whimsy. Let’s dive into the fascinating history of this remarkable structure.
The story of the London Bridge stretches back over centuries. The original bridge was constructed by the Romans around AD 50. Fast forward to 1831, engineer John Rennie designed the granite bridge that would stand in London for many years. By the 1960s, however, this bridge was sinking under the weight of increasing traffic, prompting the City of London to auction it off. Enter Robert P. McCulloch, an American entrepreneur and founder of Lake Havasu City, who purchased the bridge in 1968 for $2.46 million.
The relocation process was no small feat. The bridge was meticulously dismantled, with each stone numbered and cataloged. These stones were then shipped across the Atlantic Ocean, through the Panama Canal, and finally transported overland to Arizona. Reconstruction began in 1968, and by October 10, 1971, the bridge was rededicated in its new home over the Bridgewater Channel Canal, connecting the mainland to Pittsburgh Point.
McCulloch’s vision for Lake Havasu City was to create a thriving community and tourist destination. The London Bridge played a pivotal role in this vision, drawing visitors from around the world and putting Lake Havasu City on the map. Today, the bridge stands as a testament to McCulloch’s audacious plan and is a beloved landmark of the city.
Visitors to Lake Havasu City can walk across the bridge, marvel at its history, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere surrounding it. The area is filled with shops, restaurants, and hosts numerous events throughout the year, making it a hub of activity for both locals and tourists.
