Although it may seem odd to cite a resurrection story at Christmastime, the Perkasie Historical Society is credited a very public rebirth. Fred R. Savana’s report in the Bucks County Herald covered the preservation group’s role in the community’s vintage nativity display.

Two members of the historical society, Rick Doll and Matt Lynch, spent the past few months restoring several sections of the enormous Christmas créche depiction, which now sits at 704 E. Walnut St.

Their work centered on pieces rescued in 2013 from accidental inclusion in a trash pile.

The refurbishment project included repair and preservation effort of the structures’ wooden frames, but in general, the healthy condition of the once-jeopardized sections aided its salvageability.

“It was in very good shape, considering its age,” said Doll.

The 2021 version expands what was displayed last year, when conservation efforts enabled its first appearance in more than 60 years. Even so, what’s viewable now — at 15 feet long and six feet high — is just about half of the original tableau.

According to Perkasie’s historical records, the presentation of the nativity was made in Allentown and was purchased in 1939 by the chamber of commerce for about $200.

More on this seasonal save by the Perkasie Historical Society is at the Bucks County Herald.