Why Is The London Bridge in Lake Havasu? A Landmark Journey Across Continents
The London Bridge, a symbol of British history, now stands unexpectedly in the Arizona desert, spanning a channel of Lake Havasu. The answer lies in a shrewd business deal, a touch of American eccentricity, and the decaying state of a historic, yet functionally obsolete, bridge in London.
The Story of a Sale: From Thames to Arizona
The original London Bridge, built in the 1830s, was sinking. Due to increasingly heavy traffic and the riverbed’s composition, the bridge was subsiding at a rate of an inch every eight years. By the 1960s, it had become clear that a replacement was necessary. Rather than demolish the existing structure, the City of London Corporation decided to offer it for sale.
Enter Robert P. McCulloch, the founder of McCulloch Oil Corporation and the developer of Lake Havasu City, Arizona. McCulloch, seeking to attract residents and boost the fledgling community, saw an opportunity in purchasing the iconic bridge. He bid successfully in 1968, paying $2,460,000 for the stone facade. The price, while significant, proved to be a masterstroke of public relations and a transformative investment for Lake Havasu City.
Dismantling and Reconstruction: A Herculean Effort
The London Bridge wasn’t simply transported whole. Instead, each of the bridge’s granite blocks was carefully dismantled, numbered, and shipped across the Atlantic Ocean to California, and then trucked to Lake Havasu City. This process alone was an engineering feat.
The reconstruction process involved building a hollow concrete core over which the original granite blocks were meticulously reassembled. This ensured the bridge’s structural integrity and provided a modern foundation to support future traffic. The bridge was officially dedicated in 1971, instantly transforming Lake Havasu City from a relatively unknown desert community into a major tourist destination.
A Boost for Lake Havasu City: More Than Just a Bridge
The purchase of the London Bridge proved to be a brilliant marketing strategy for Lake Havasu City. The bridge attracted tourists from around the world, generating revenue and creating a unique identity for the community. McCulloch’s vision extended beyond simply transporting a historical landmark; he sought to create a vibrant and prosperous city around it. He succeeded. The bridge became the centerpiece of a thriving tourist industry, featuring boat tours, restaurants, and shops, all contributing to the city’s economic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions About the London Bridge in Lake Havasu
These FAQs address common questions and provide deeper insights into the London Bridge’s journey to Arizona.
H3: Was it the Tower Bridge that was sold to Lake Havasu?
No, it was not the Tower Bridge. Many people mistakenly believe that the famous Tower Bridge, with its iconic lifting bascules, was sold to Lake Havasu. It was the London Bridge built in the 1830s that was purchased. This confusion likely arose because both bridges are famous landmarks in London.
H3: How much did it cost to transport and rebuild the bridge?
While the purchase price was $2,460,000, the total cost, including dismantling, shipping, and reconstruction, was estimated to be around $7 million. This figure highlights the complexity and scale of the project.
H3: Why was the bridge sinking in the first place?
The original London Bridge was sinking primarily due to increased traffic volume and the composition of the riverbed. The bridge was designed for horse-drawn carriages and lighter loads. The weight of modern vehicles, coupled with the soft soil beneath the bridge’s foundations, caused it to gradually subside.
H3: What is the difference between the old and new London Bridges?
The old London Bridge, which stood for over 600 years, was a medieval structure lined with shops and houses. The bridge purchased by McCulloch was built in the 1830s. The current London Bridge in London is a modern structure built in the 1970s after the sale of the 1830s bridge. The London Bridge in Lake Havasu is comprised of the original granite exterior of the 1830s bridge, reconstructed over a reinforced concrete structure.
H3: How were the blocks numbered for reconstruction?
Each granite block was meticulously numbered with Roman numerals before dismantling. These markings allowed the construction crew in Lake Havasu City to reassemble the bridge in its original configuration.
H3: Who was Robert P. McCulloch and why did he buy the bridge?
Robert P. McCulloch was an American entrepreneur, best known for founding McCulloch Oil Corporation and developing Lake Havasu City, Arizona. He purchased the London Bridge as a marketing strategy to attract residents and tourists to his new city.
H3: Is the London Bridge really haunted?
Some believe the London Bridge in Lake Havasu is haunted, possibly by spirits associated with the original structure or the dismantling and transportation process. However, these are largely unsubstantiated claims and part of the bridge’s folklore.
H3: Can you walk or drive across the London Bridge in Lake Havasu?
Yes, you can both walk and drive across the London Bridge in Lake Havasu. It is a fully functional bridge that connects an island in Lake Havasu to the mainland.
H3: Are there any remnants of the original London Bridge in London?
While the main structure of the 1830s London Bridge is in Lake Havasu, some stones and artifacts from the bridge are believed to be located in various museums and private collections in London.
H3: What impact did the London Bridge have on Lake Havasu City’s economy?
The London Bridge had a significant positive impact on Lake Havasu City’s economy. It became a major tourist attraction, generating revenue for local businesses, creating jobs, and boosting the city’s profile on a global scale. It transformed the city from a small desert community into a thriving tourist destination.
H3: What are the dimensions of the London Bridge in Lake Havasu?
The London Bridge in Lake Havasu is approximately 930 feet long and 49 feet wide. It consists of five spans and stands about 30 feet above the water.
H3: Is it worth visiting the London Bridge in Lake Havasu?
Absolutely. The London Bridge in Lake Havasu offers a unique and fascinating experience. It’s a chance to witness a piece of history that has traveled across continents, and to explore the vibrant community that has grown around it. Boat tours, walking tours, and the surrounding attractions provide a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages, making it a worthwhile destination.
Conclusion: A Bridge Across Time and Continents
The London Bridge in Lake Havasu stands as a testament to ambition, ingenuity, and the enduring power of historical landmarks. Its journey from the Thames to the Arizona desert is a remarkable story of adaptation and transformation, a symbolic bridge not just across water, but across time and continents. It continues to captivate visitors and serve as a vibrant symbol of Lake Havasu City’s unique identity.