London Bridge, an iconic symbol of London, has captivated tourists worldwide for nearly 2,000 years, despite many being unaware of its true historical significance. This ancient crossing over the River Thames traces its origins back to Roman times, specifically to 43 A.D. when the first bridge was constructed.
Historical Timeline of London Bridge
- 43 A.D.: The inception of London Bridge began with the Romans, marking it as a crucial crossing point on the Thames. The earliest records indicate that this bridge facilitated trade and movement in the burgeoning settlement of Londinium.
- 1014: During a tumultuous period when the Danes occupied London, Saxon forces led by King Ethelred II allied with Viking troops under King Olaf to launch an attack on the bridge, aiming to disrupt Danish control.
- 1176: A significant milestone occurred with the construction of the first stone bridge, overseen by Peter Colechurch. Completed in 1209, this structure featured a 20-foot-wide roadway and was supported by 20 Gothic arches, enduring for over six centuries.
- 1577: The Nonesuch House was erected to replace the drawbridge, enhancing access across the bridge with a passageway at street level.
- 1623: A devastating fire ravaged the bridge, ignited by a maidservant’s negligence with hot cinders.
- 1657: The bridge underwent renovations as it began to deteriorate, leading to a partial reconstruction that included a wider central arch.
- 1825: The foundation stone for a new iteration of London Bridge was laid by Mayor John Garratt in a ceremony attended by notable figures.
- 1902-1904: Further enhancements were made to accommodate increasing traffic demands, expanding the bridge’s dimensions significantly.
- 1962: Concerns arose regarding structural integrity as the bridge was reported to be “tumbling down,” prompting discussions about its future.
- 1968: The City of London auctioned the aging bridge, which was purchased by Robert P. McCulloch for $2.46 million. He invested an additional $7 million to relocate it to Lake Havasu City, Arizona—a project that took three years to complete.
- 1971: The modern London Bridge was inaugurated over the Thames, coinciding with the demolition of its predecessor. The dedication ceremony attracted around 50,000 visitors and included dignitaries from both British and American governments.
Interesting Facts About London Bridge
- Contrary to popular belief, Tower Bridge is not London Bridge; it is located further upstream and is far more ornate.
- Over 50 designs were submitted during the construction competition for the current London Bridge.
- The bridge comprises over 11,000 tons of steel, requiring more than 70,000 tons of concrete for its foundations.
- Originally less colorful, London Bridge was painted in red, white, and blue in 1977 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee.
- Approximately 40,000 people cross London Bridge daily, underscoring its continued importance as a vital transportation route.
Conclusion
With its rich history marked by significant events and transformations, London Bridge remains an essential artery for daily commuters and tourists alike. Its legacy continues to evolve while serving as a testament to London’s enduring architectural and cultural heritage.
