Downtown Littleton has a colorful new addition—and it’s more than just a mural.
The Littleton Downtown Development Authority (LDDA) is proud to celebrate the completion of Those That Carried Us Here, a large-scale public artwork by Littleton artist Katy Casper and the first major installation in the organization’s new Downtown Public Art Program.
Located on the west-facing wall of the building at 2490 Main Street, the approximately 2,420-square-foot mural transforms a historic downtown building into a vibrant tribute to the people, landscapes, and community spirit that have helped shape Littleton over generations.
(Photo courtesy of Littleton Public Library)
A Trolley Through Littleton’s Story
Selected through a competitive public process, Casper’s design reimagines the building as a vintage Littleton trolley traveling through time, memory, and community identity.
Inspired by the electric trolley that once traveled along Main Street, the mural incorporates the building’s existing windows and architectural features directly into the artwork, allowing the structure itself to become part of the story.
(Photo courtesy of Littleton Public Library)
At the center of the piece is a black-and-white trolley car carrying notable figures from Littleton’s past, including:
- Dr. Walter C. Crysler, longtime physician, mayor, and civic leader
- Richard and Angeline Little, founders of the community that became Littleton
- Architect J.J.B. Benedict, whose work helped define the character of Downtown Littleton
- Joseph Bowles, pioneering rancher, businessman, and irrigation advocate
- Elizabeth and Fred Bemis, influential agricultural and civic leaders whose legacy helped shape Colorado’s cattle industry and the National Western Stock Show
Together, these historic figures represent the visionaries, builders, and community leaders who helped create the Littleton we know today.
Rooted in Place
Surrounding the trolley are sweeping scenes inspired by Colorado’s foothills and prairie landscapes, woven together with native plants including Rocky Mountain columbine, blanket flower, echinacea, lupine, and native grasses.
Wildlife, pollinators, and flowing organic forms connect the mural’s historical elements to the natural environment that continues to define the region.
“I wanted this mural to honor the people, landscapes, and stories that helped shape Littleton while creating something that feels alive and relevant today,” said Casper. “By combining historic figures, native plants, and community-sourced words, I hope the piece invites people to see themselves as part of Littleton’s ongoing story.”
A Community-Created Piece
One of the mural’s most meaningful elements comes directly from the community itself.
Earlier this spring, residents were invited to participate in a public engagement campaign and submit words that describe Littleton. Selected words—including Authentic, Charming, Inclusive, Vibrant, Heart, and Original—were incorporated into the artwork and embedded within root systems beneath the trolley.
The words serve as a reminder that Littleton’s identity is not only shaped by its history, but also by the people who continue to live, work, create, and build community here today.
The Beginning of a Bigger Vision
The mural marks the launch of LDDA’s broader vision to expand public art throughout Downtown Littleton in the years ahead.
“This mural represents the first major installation in the DDA’s vision to expand public art throughout Downtown Littleton,” said Jenny Starkey, Executive Director of the Littleton Downtown Development Authority. “Public art does more than beautify a space—it creates connection, sparks curiosity, celebrates local creativity, and transforms everyday places into meaningful experiences. We’re proud to launch our Downtown Public Art program with a project that honors Littleton’s history while helping shape its future.”
(2490 Main Street Before Mural Installation)
(Mural in progress)
Krista Falkenstine, artist, LDDA Board Member, and member of the mural selection committee, said the project reflects the power of public art to bring people together.
“Public art has the power to create connection and spark curiosity,” Falkenstine said. “This mural celebrates Littleton’s unique identity while adding a vibrant new landmark to Downtown, and we’re excited for residents and visitors to experience it for years to come.”
A Collaborative Effort
The project was made possible through a partnership between the Littleton Downtown Development Authority, property owners David and Michelle Coe, and funding support from a City of Littleton Arts & Culture Grant.
To help preserve the artwork for years to come, the mural has been protected with an anti-graffiti coating.
Next time you’re strolling along Main Street, take a moment to visit Those That Carried Us Here. Look closely, explore the details, and see how many stories—and community words—you can find woven throughout the piece.
Because Littleton’s story is still being written, and we’re all part of it.
Want to see more?
Watch our making of the mural video here.