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Clement Clarke Moore (1779-1863)

Clement C. Moore, a Classics professor at General Theological Seminary in New York City, wrote A Visit from Saint Nicholas (later re-named to 'Twas the Night Before Christmas) for his children on December 24, 1822. That night, Moore read the poem to his wife and six children and then promptly shelved it.

Upon hearing about Moore's poem, a family friend secretly submitted it to The Sentinel, a New York newspaper. The Sentinel published it anonymously the following Christmas. The poem enjoyed almost instant success and was published in newspapers, magazines, booklets and anthologies around the globe.

More than 150 years later, the recitation of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas remains a holiday tradition in homes around the world. In New York City, even the most urbane city-dweller may honor Santa's creator at a candlelight service held each December in the Church of the Intercession at Broadway and 155th Street in Manhattan. Following the service, there is a lantern procession to Moore's grave, located across the street from the church.

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