The hand-made, life-size nativity that has been displayed in George West’s park each holiday season for years may be nearing its final year. Dolores and Harvey Roberts, who created the extensive display, have spent decades carving, painting, and dressing dozens of figures. They say the physical work, repairs, and annual setup are becoming more difficult, and the future of the display depends on someone else taking over its maintenance.
Dolores Roberts told reporters that she and her husband create nearly every figure, except for the baby Jesus and one chicken, and then haul the pieces out each late November. The figures spend most of the year in a conex container before the Roberts move them to George West City Park, where locals and visitors can view the display, according to The Progress.
From Front-Yard Faith Project To Downtown Display
The Roberts say the nativity began more than 20 years ago in the front yard of their Fort Worth home before moving to Live Oak County and eventually to George West. They once considered displaying it at Brush Country Cowboy Church but chose the city park so that more people could see it in a public space. For more information on the town and its community events, visit the George West Chamber of Commerce.
Why This Season Could Be The Last
Maintaining the life-size display requires significant effort. Each year, the Roberts lift, repair, dress, and carefully assemble the fragile figures, work they say has grown more physically demanding over time. They have indicated that this could be the nativity’s final season unless someone else volunteers to handle its upkeep, The Progress reports.
Small Details, Big Meaning
Visitors say the display, including details such as fingernails and camels with extra eyelashes, brings a sense of peace to those who stop to view it. For the Roberts, the nativity has served as a form of ministry, and for many in George West, it has become a seasonal tradition. Those interested in helping maintain the display can contact the George West Chamber of Commerce for information about volunteering or storage options.
