History tells us of the first nativity scene, the Presepio, was created in Italy in 1224 with St. Francis of Assisi having the first re-enactment of the nativity scene using live persons. In the mid 1600's, crude figures were made of wood and clay of the Babe, Mary and Joseph. Sculptured figurines developed later in the 1700's. My maternal grandfather, Peter Sozio, wanted to carry on the tradition he had learned as a child in Italy of the Italian nativity scene to honor the journey of the Shepard's to the manger.
In 1923, in Youngstown, Ohio, Peter and his uncle began this collection of pieces that were hand painted from Germany and Italy. Some pieces were actually children's toys or banks. Each year he added more pieces and finally the roads of aquarium rock. It became a Christmas tradition for our family members to help create this manger scene.
Peter always had more than one Christmas tree. My mother's vivid childhood memories are that of going to relatives homes to see their Christmas tree and their manager scene. Gifts were not exchanged, just home made cakes or cookies to share. Peter loved people and enjoyed their coming to view his nativity scene.
Although I never had the great fortune to meet my Grandpa Sozio, I have come to know him through my Mom, Aunt Nancy, Aunt Louise and Grandma Rose. Every year as I help my mom began her yearly journey to put up the Presepio scene, I learn about the patience and love for tradition that my grandpa must have felt. He was a man who understood the importance of the journey towards Christ, which has continued in my heart all these passing years. I am truly blessed!
(This was written by my mom, Gerry. I made small additions to share our story.)
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