2015 SRAC Christmas Auction

A Putz was a Pennsylvania-Dutch miniature landscape, with varied figures, structures and animals. Some of these scenes were made on a grand scale; but smaller ones, equally pretty, and not so difficult to manage, were arranged at the foot of the Christmas tree. The tree was placed on a table, or, better still, was set in a large dry goods box with boards placed across the top of the box, as a foundation for the Putz.

Cardboard houses, twig fences, miniature livestock such as sheep and horses were added to the scenes. The decorations were generally prepared in a room that was kept carefully locked and mysteriously darkened, which enhanced the delight and surprise when the time arrived for the display. As it was the custom in Bethlehem to visit the Putzes in the evening, the greatest care was taken in their illumination. Some of them were especially designed for charming light effects.

This PUTZ church is extra special in that it has been made as a music box that plays "Silent Night."

Donated by Diane Marvin.