Bridge over Colorado Waters

Leaving Quartzsite on a heading north towards Lake Havasu, Arizona, en route to Sedona; Phil felt it was his birth-bound-duty to visit London Bridge. After all he had driven many times over London Bridge in London and now this very bridge was waiting for him in an American town in the middle of a desert nestled along the Colorado River. How extraordinary! "Just a few hours away his boyish eyes pleaded”. I thought the dust and heat from Quartzsite had distorted his sensibilities, but I couldn’t refuse him. So off we went in search of London Bridge and along the way we stopped at every RV and hardware store in search of a replacement part for the electric thing-a-ma-jig we ripped out the previous day. We found London Bridge, but the electrical part was as elusive as a London cabbie on a rainy day in Arizona.

Most baby boomers know the nursery rhyme “London Bridge is Falling Down” but did the Americans know it? If so, it didn’t discourage successful businessman, Robert P. McCulloch, Sr., founder of Lake Havasu City, with a philanthropic vision for his new town. His vision preserved London Bridge and guaranteed Lake Havasu as a British destination without Americans ever having to apply for a passport or experience transatlantic jet lag.

The project began in the late 60’s commencing with the unimaginable task of numbering every brick prior to dismantling. Completed in just over 3-years and officially opened in the fall of 1971. Today, Lake Havasu has grown up around the famous bridge and continues to draw visitors from around the world.

If you are wondering what Phil’s reaction was? It was mixed. The bridge was smaller than he remembered but isn't everything when we return as adults. And he was surprised that the view of the bridge was obscured from most vantage points. Somehow I think this would cause Mr. McCulloch to gasp in disbelief. Consequently, you are over the bridge before you know it. Regardless, Phil can now say he has traveled across London Bridge on two continents.

As for attractions in Lake Havasu, there are plenty. From water sports of all kinds, even on an ole fashioned southern inspired paddle wheel boat, to fishing and off-road adventures. And, of course, plenty of shopping.

For the history of London Bridge, I found the Lake Havasu Chamber of Commerce web site very interesting.

http://www.havasuchamber.com/inner.php4?dbfile=lbhistory.html

Wheelchair Accessibility Rating: Excellent in the town, though water and desert activities are limited.