
I’ve no doubt someone out there has the solution to this mural mystery in Carlsbad!
I’ve done some online research but can find nothing about this old-fashioned mural on a wall beside the 2742 State Street building, which is home to Lofty Coffee Company.
The mural is very faded and partly obscured. I’ve greatly increased the contrast of the above photograph to help bring out the design and colors.
The painted mural centers on the historical Carlsbad train station and shows a steam locomotive on the nearby track. A horse is hitched to a cart advertising Village Limousine Service. Was that an actual business in Carlsbad?
Who created this nostalgic mural? When?
How much of the artwork is hidden by the adjacent building? Why is the standing wall that it was painted on seemingly preserved–the wall appears to be separate from the buildings on either side.
Please leave a comment if you know anything! I’m sure many readers would love to learn more about this engaging old public art!

UPDATE!
James R Dean on my Facebook page stated:
Its our guess that the lady who owned it prior (antique store) would know. The entire building was once all part of same mural. Very cool lady, shes still around. In the early 90s my mom found my toy chest there. (one of 3 made for family by my grandfather). I bought it and later had children who used it. My guess is this was painted in 80s and they left the one to keep some of the art.
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Thank you for sharing!
That’s a rather unique approach to a mystery. Great art work and such a fun way for people to solve it.
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