In a fascinating twist of history, the iconic London Bridge, originally constructed in the 1830s, now stands proudly in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. This surprising relocation is the result of a unique vision and a hefty investment by American entrepreneur Robert P. McCulloch.
The Unusual Purchase
In 1967, McCulloch purchased the historic London Bridge from the city of London for $2.46 million. The bridge had begun to sink into the River Thames and needed to be replaced. Rather than demolish it, London officials decided to auction it off.
Rebuilding in the Desert
McCulloch saw an opportunity to create a landmark attraction for his real estate development in Lake Havasu City. After acquiring the bridge, each granite block was numbered and dismantled before being shipped across the Atlantic. By 1971, the bridge had been reassembled in Arizona, spanning a man-made canal and quickly becoming a popular tourist attraction.
A Lasting Legacy
Today, the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City attracts visitors from around the world. It symbolizes a remarkable example of repurposing historical architecture in a new context. Thanks to McCulloch’s vision, a piece of London’s past continues to charm and fascinate people in the Arizona desert.
The story of how the London Bridge ended up in the USA is a captivating blend of history and entrepreneurship. So, next time you find yourself in Arizona, don’t miss the chance to walk across this iconic bridge and ponder the incredible journey it took to get there.