Construction crews working on the Heart Improvement Plan in Downtown Loveland are uncovering more than just old infrastructure—they’re unearthing pieces of the city’s past.

As 4th Street undergoes revitalization, we expected that crews would discover a few unexpected artifacts buried beneath the surface. So far, the findings have amounted to old bottles, cans, wooden water pipes, and other historic bricks that offer a glimpse into Loveland’s early days.

One particularly notable find: a large concrete column discovered directly beneath the center of the intersection of 4th Street and Lincoln Avenue. When City staff started going through historic photos to see what it could be, they discovered that it once served as the foundation for a flagpole in the center of the street. This flagpole was erected in 1918 to celebrate Loveland's participation and success in a Liberty Loan campaign during World War I. Later photos show that the flagpole was removed and the same base served as one of Loveland’s first traffic lights with one central light in the intersection.

This piece of Loveland’s civic history has been carefully removed and placed on public display on 4th Street near Thompson Park, commonly known as Pocket Park. Curious community members are encouraged to stop by and see the artifact for themselves. The concrete base will be transported to a Loveland Recycle Center (400 N Wilson Ave, Loveland, CO 80537) facility the week of August 25.

These discoveries are fueling a new exhibit in the works at the Loveland Museum, titled “Found on Fourth,” which will showcase the artifacts and tell the story of the history beneath our feet. The Heart Improvement Plan team, in collaboration with the museum, is currently gathering artifacts and historical materials to bring this exhibit to life in fall of 2026.

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