First published anonymously in 1823, ''Twas The Night Before Christmas' has played a vital role in the tradition of Christmas. The jolly, red-cheeked, gift-bearing Santa Claus that we know (and love) today originates from Clement Clarke Moore's poem. He originally wrote it to share only with his own children on Christmas Eve. This jovial poem is wonderful for all fans of Santa Claus and the presents he delivers, young or old!
Clement Clarke Moore (1779-1863) was an American writer, teacher, and poet. A highly religious man, he attended Columbia University and went on to write about a variety of subjects, including poetry, historical biographies, and translations from French. His most notable work was certainly 'A Visit From St Nicholas' which was originally written as a Christmas Eve gift to his children, and quickly gained fame, being known today as 'Twas the Night Before Christmas.'