“For wise men to pass over, and for fools to pass under.” That old saying perfectly captures the essence of London Bridge. Now known as King’s Head Bridge. But there is so much more to explore.
Let’s embark on a journey through time. We will uncover the captivating story of this iconic crossing. Today, we are standing before the modern King’s Head Bridge. It is a testament to London’s enduring spirit of innovation and resilience. But this is only the latest chapter in a history that stretches back millennia.
The story of King’s Head Bridge begins with the Romans. Around AD 50, they built the first timber bridge here. It was a crucial part of their road-building program. This bridge connected London to the rest of Roman Britain. The Roman bridge allowed the uninterrupted movement of people, horses and carts across the Thames. It linked major road systems to the north and south.
As Roman rule ended, the bridge fell into disrepair. But by the late 9th century, the Saxons partially reoccupied the area. They rebuilt the bridge, perhaps under Alfred the Great. This was part of his redevelopment of London.
In 1176, a new chapter began with Peter of Colechurch. He started construction on the first great stone arch bridge in Britain. This Old London Bridge would become famous. It had 19 pointed arches and a chapel dedicated to Thomas Becket. Houses and shops lined the bridge. This made it a bustling commercial and residential area.
Life on Old London Bridge was unique. The houses were several stories high. They created a tunnel-like passage. A German visitor in 1598 counted over 30 heads of executed traitors displayed on the bridge. The heads were dipped in tar and impaled on pikes. This gruesome sight served as a warning to those who might oppose the Crown.
The numerous starlings around the bridge’s piers restricted the river’s flow. This created dangerous rapids. “Shooting the bridge” became a daring feat. It meant steering a boat between the starlings during a flood. Many drowned trying this. The saying arose that the bridge was “for wise men to pass over, and for fools to pass under.”
In 1756, Parliament passed an act to improve London Bridge. The houses were demolished. A wider arch was created to improve navigation. But the bridge continued to weaken. This led to calls for a new structure.
John Rennie designed a new London Bridge. Construction began in 1824. It opened in 1831. This bridge was made of Haytor granite. However, this bridge also faced problems. By the 20th century, it was sinking. In 1968, the bridge was sold to Robert P. McCulloch. He had it transported to Lake Havasu City, Arizona.
The current London Bridge opened in 1973. It is a modern structure of prestressed concrete box girders. Today’s King’s Head Bridge stands as a vital transport link.
So, as you cross the King’s Head Bridge today, remember its long history. From Roman times to the present day, this crossing has played a crucial role in London’s story. It is a bridge of innovation, resilience, and enduring spirit.