photo by CAROL SHETLER/The Luminary Tim Wertz and the miniature he constructed in the likeness of the Baptist Church at Picture Rocks. CAROL SONES-SHETLER/Muncy Luminary

Tim Wertz of Hughesville, a 25-year adherent of the 136 year-old Picture Rocks Baptist Church, said, “I have to keep busy, I can’t just sit around and twiddle my thumbs. I cane chairs, sew, and construct models of buildings.” So, about 18 months ago, the retired draftsman used his abilities to construct a miniature model of his church.

Asked about a presentation service, Wertz said, “I didn’t want any fanfare. Instead, I quietly placed the model near the entryway, waiting to see how long it would take people to notice.” And yes, he was the receipient of many compliments.

“I didn’t make it to scale, I just started and the result speaks for itself,” he said. The builder’s pattern was simply a photo he’d taken of the church. Items used for construction included actual shingles cut down for the roof; lots of light weight balsa wood; and popsickle sticks reduced in size, to replicate the appearance of siding.

For the outdoor landscape, the oversized creek stones atop a wall bordering the sidewalk, were created using shaped styrofoam. The appearance of bushes was accomplished by shaping floral wire and spraying with a fuzzy green substance.

The draftsman also built a grist mill located in West Virginia. “I like photography, so we take pictures when vacationing. And then, there was a request from a Picture Rocks couple who wanted a miniature of their home to include in a train layout.”

As Wertz is a Willy Nelson fan, he built a miniature likeness of the singer’s saloon located at Levitt, Texas. He fashioned people for the porch including several country music stars. He couldn’t help including himself within the group.

Wertz does not confine himself to miniatures only, but duplicates life sized figures as well, Seasonal displays at his home mark both Christmas and St. Patrick’s Day. Soon, those traveling route 220 will be able to see a Leprechaun. During the Christmas holiday season, there was a grinch, snowman, elf, reindeer, and Santa. The latter’s suit was made from recycled red material from the church’s pew cushions.

Sewing was added to the draftsmen’s varied talents after taking lessons offered by Lois Reese. Wife Kathy said, “If I’m taking lessons, you are too.” Wertz went on to make quilts.

Both Tim and Cathy are Montgomery natives, and since their marriage in 1972, reside in Hughesville.

Now that the husband’s creations have become numerous, and when beginning a new project, Cathy will ask, “What are you going to do with that?” Even so, she’s supportive. When seeing something they consider buying, Cathy will say you can make that, and he does.