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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
What began as a simple holiday tradition for two new Elgin residents has turned into an international Christmas collection.
The home of Nancy and Charles Gilbert is filled with an assortment of 240 nativity scenes — at least, that’s the count the last time they checked. The collection spans more than three decades and reflects both the meaning of Christmas and their appreciation for the variety and history of these pieces, according to the couple.
“A good friend of mine collected Santa Clauses, and I thought I’d like to collect something Christmas. I thought, nat ivit y, what says Christmas more than the beginning of the story?” Nancy said.
The selection of scenes is as diverse as their origin stories. Among the pieces are intricate sets from Ireland, Uganda and Vietnam, alongside whimsical animal-themed displays, musical boxes and ant ique treasures from flea markets. The collection features pieces crafted from a variety of materials, including crystal, wood and paper mache.
“There’s the ones that the kids can touch, and the ones the kids can’t touch,” Nancy added.
The tradition started before Nancy officially began collecting. Her earliest piece was a small nativity gifted by her mother the year she and Charles were married, 42 years ago. That first nativity found its place beneath their Christmas tree this year, itself adorned with nativity-themed ornaments.
Each season, Nancy and Charles carefully unpack their Christmas boxes, transforming their home into a celebration of the holiday. China cabinets are cleared to make room for smal ler scenes, while decorations, table runners and tea towels simultaneously take on the theme.
The couple moved to Elgin from Pennsylvania last year, settling into the area to be closer to their eldest child, who lives nearby with his wife and eight children. Both Nancy and Charles are retired and have quickly become active members of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.
Back in Pennsylvania, the couple participated in the Festival of the Nativity, where Nancy would display a few of her favorite sets at their church. Since moving to Elgin, she has already received scenes as gifts from new neighbors, further enriching the collection.
According to Nancy and Charles, these humble and sacred displays serve as more than decor — a reminder of faith, family and the joy of sharing traditions.
