Abstract:
The Moravians came to America from Central Europe. One tradition they brought with them to their settlement in Salem was the Christmas putz. A putz is a miniature Christmas decoration that usually depicts the nativity scene and is intended to be used as a teaching tool for children. Over time other scenes were added to the annual putz. Today, Old Salem's putzes depict the Old Salem village and often include scenes around Salem Square and the Old Salem Moravian Church. The largest putzes are built each year by the men and women of the Home Moravian Church as a part of The Candle Tea.