Clement Clarke Moore (1779-1863) was an American scholar, poet, and real estate developer. He is best known for writing the poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas", which is often referred to by its opening line, "‘Twas the Night Before Christmas". This poem, first published anonymously in 1823, played a significant role in shaping the modern image of Santa Claus. Moore was also a professor of Oriental and Greek literature at the General Theological Seminary in New York City and contributed to the development of the Chelsea neighborhood in Manhattan.
