Nativity Smaller Sets
Markings Code: (A)=Diamond I, (B)=Hartland Molded, Hartland Wisc., (C)= Hartland Plastics Inc, Hartland Wisc., (NM)= Not Marked
Smaller Sets:
Hartland sold quite a few larger sets that had 17 to 21 pieces we normally associate with a full Nativity Set, but they also offered a variety of different smaller sets. You can see a few of them listed in the Nativity section of the (1955) Dealer Jobber Sheet, shown near the bottom of this page.
 
Stand Alone 3 Piece Nativity Sets

Pearl Finish White 4" (#236-W)
Marked 236-M, 236-CR & 236-J plus (A)

Mary (A) , Christ Child (NM) , Joseph (A)
#235-P-3
When photographed to fill the same frame, the set on the left looks basically the same as the normal sets, however it is called a 4" tall set (actually only about 2.5" tall). You can easily see the difference below. The pearly finish on the small set is actually the plastic material, and not painted on. The set on the right above is slightly different than a similar grouping above in which Joseph has a red cape (many have brown). The white robes on Mary and Joseph have a light colored pearly paint finish. The set on the right, below, is from a White Nativity set. At this time, I don't know if there as a pearly white version of this size, but the small white set is listed in the Dealer Price Sheet.


Mary and Joseph 235-P-(3):
This box set has the 235-P marking, but lacks the number 3 at the end. The figures are painted in the Soft Color paint scheme, but the cape is tan instead of rust brown. The other two figures resemble the Holy Family in the larger Soft Color sets.

Mary and Joseph 235-P-3:
The paint is lighter in this set I purchased as a group on eBay. More of the light tan plastic is allowed to to show through on these figures than the set above.
Dark Haired Mary and Joseph:
The Shepherds and Wise Men in many sets have black hair, however, most Mary and Joseph figures have lighter brown hair. The figures on the left are unique for their dark hair. The baby Jesus figure was still light and washed out when this group came to me. The rest of the figures I received with this group were from the Standard Color set, so I can't technically call this a stand alone set. Mary's dress is painted white. Both have gold trim.
 


235-P- 7-: Seven Piece Nativity Set:
As documented on the (1955) Dealer Jobber Sheets, Hartland sold smaller sets which included the stable. This one includes a large Gloria Angel, three pieces to the Holy Family, two sheep, and the stable. (The stable front and stable back are considered one piece) This combination is not listed on the Dealer Jobber Sheet, however a 235-P-9 piece set is listed including a bull and donkey added to the configuration above. Notice the rocks and shingles on this set are quite a bit darker than the same elements on other fronts.
Six Piece Set:
An auction completed on eBay in August of 2004. Normally, I try to get permission from the seller to use their photo. I don't know who purchased this set (If you know, please let me know). The set was sold as a six piece combination, but it looks more like only three pieces would fit in the small box. Mary and Joseph appear to have pearlized paint on the white robes and the Wise Men have dark hair and beards.
 

Text & Photographs Copyright Mike Jackson 1998-2008
This page last modified Friday, October 19, 2007