The Putz has been a tradition at The Lutheran Home at Topton since the early 1900s when Ida Henry, wife of the superintendent, the Rev. Dr. J.O. Henry, initiated the labor of love for the orphans at The Home.

Instead of giving personal gifts to every child, Ida Henry would add something new to the Christmas Putz.

"Putz" (pronounced "puts" not "putts") comes from the Anglo-Saxon verb "putzen," which meant "to decorate."

Years ago, after families finished decorating their Christmas trees, they would bring out items portraying the Nativity scene.

Mary and Joseph, shepherds, angels and animals were placed at the base of the tree and a toy fence enclosed the entire scene.

This was called a Putz. Later, toy trains and miniature buildings came along and were included in the scene.

The Putz at The Home, with 17 miniature scenes displayed on a 560-square-foot platform, is located in its own room off the Brandywine Community Library.

There is a taped narration helping to bring the Putz to life. During a recent visit, residents Pat Kasunic, formerly of Allentown, and Robert Franke, formerly of Lobachsville, described the scenes, and operated the series of 46 switches activating the focal points of the miniature layout.

Franke pointed out a monkey climbing a palm tree to pick the coconuts.

"It's the oldest toy on the platform," he said. "And it doesn't take any batteries."

Although former residents of the orphanage and local Scout troops frequently visit, there have also been visitors from as far away as Australia.

The story of the Holy birth is told on a platform separate from the larger platform holding the secular scenes.

The Putz begins with the Annunciation to Mary, continues with the manger scene, and concludes with a scene portraying the three Magi worshipping Jesus and giving Him gifts.

On the secular platform, there are two model trains chugging their way past a roller coaster, running on the motor of an old Victrola.

There is also a replica of Radio City Music Hall.

According to the history of the Putz, Ida Henry had a soft spot in her heart for Radio City.

She re-created the hall, complete with the organ to the left of the stage and the orchestra in the pit.

Near the hall is a church, decorated for a wedding. The bridal party is leaving the wedding.

The interior of the church can be seen through an opening in the roof. The pews are filled with small people. Tiny hymnals, a baptismal font, and a pipe organ made of lollipop sticks and lead pencils can be seen.

There also is a circus tent with bleachers in the middle of the Putz. This was the last item made by Ida Henry before she and Dr. Henry retired in 1946.

The Putz is open 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28. Pre-registration is not required. Large group or special tours may be arranged by contacting Pat Kasunic at 610-682-0677.