What is the reason for the London Bridge being in Arizona?

Travel Destinations

By Kristy Tolley

The History of London Bridge

London Bridge is a world-renowned bridge located in Arizona, United States. The bridge was originally built in London, England over the River Thames and opened in 1831. The bridge was designed by engineer John Rennie and was made of granite. The bridge was an important part of London’s transportation system and was used by pedestrians, vehicles, and even horse-drawn carriages.

The bridge had undergone several repairs and renovations over the years, but by the 20th century, it had become too narrow to accommodate the increasing traffic. It was eventually decided that a new bridge would be built, and the old London Bridge was put up for sale.

The Bridge’s Original Location

London Bridge was located in London, England, and spanned the River Thames. It was situated in an area known as the Pool of London, which was a busy port district. The bridge was a crucial link between the north and south banks of the river and was an essential transportation route for the people of London.

London Bridge’s Demolition

In 1967, the decision was made to replace the old London Bridge with a new one. The bridge was dismantled, and its granite blocks were numbered so that they could be transported and reassembled elsewhere. The process of dismantling the bridge took three years, and the blocks were shipped to the United States.

The Sale of London Bridge

Robert P. McCulloch, an American entrepreneur, purchased the bridge for $2.46 million in 1968. McCulloch intended to use the bridge as a tourist attraction in his new development, Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

The Bridge’s Journey to America

The granite blocks of London Bridge were transported to the United States via the Panama Canal. The journey took a total of 14 months, and the blocks arrived in California in 1968. From there, they were transported to Lake Havasu City in Arizona.

The Arrival in Lake Havasu City

The blocks of London Bridge arrived in Lake Havasu City in 1969. The reconstruction of the bridge began immediately. The bridge was reassembled using the original granite blocks, which were held together with steel rods and cement.

Rebuilding London Bridge

The reconstruction of London Bridge took three years and was completed in 1971. The bridge was rebuilt over a man-made channel, which was dug in Lake Havasu.

The Dedication Ceremony

The dedication ceremony for London Bridge was held on October 10, 1971. Queen Elizabeth II’s cousin, Lord Mayor of London, flew to Arizona to officially open the bridge.

Tourism and London Bridge

Since its opening, London Bridge has become a popular tourist attraction in Lake Havasu City. The bridge attracts thousands of visitors each year and has become a symbol of the city.

London Bridge Today

Today, London Bridge is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The bridge has been well-maintained over the years and is still in use as a pedestrian and vehicle bridge.

The Future of London Bridge

The future of London Bridge in Arizona looks promising. The city continues to invest in the bridge and surrounding area, and there are plans to expand tourism and develop the area.

Conclusion: London Bridge in Arizona

London Bridge has had an interesting journey from its original location in London, England, to its current location in Arizona, United States. The bridge is a testament to human ingenuity and engineering and has become an important part of Lake Havasu City’s history and tourism industry. The bridge’s story serves as a reminder that even something as seemingly small as a bridge can have a significant impact and a long-lasting legacy.

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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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