As a child, Ken Cornish, now of rural Steuben, was intrigued by the very old nativity scene owned and displayed by his parents.  Then, fourteen years ago, he took a grandson to the Children’s Museum in Hot Springs, Arkansas where a large collection of nativity scenes were featured.  Ken’s latent interest grew to fascination on that day.

Since then, Cornish has searched for nativity scenes to purchase as souvenirs during his travels.  He tries to find ones that reflect the local culture.  Family members and friends started looking for unique nativity displays to give him.  His collection now includes scenes made in Europe, the Middle East, and South, Central and North American, including Alaska.

For the next three weeks, a portion of Cornish’s collection will be on display at the Gays Mills Library.  Come see nativity scenes made of natural rubber, gourds, coconuts, wicker, clay, olive wood, paper, and ceramics.  While you won’t be able to shake the snow globe, imagine the camels and wise men traveling around the globe as they do after this musical ornament is wound.  Feel the warm breezes rocking Jesus in a hammock cradle.