hough a staple Christmas story for nearly two centuries, the full significance of Clement Moore’s poem is often forgotten.

Published in 1822, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ crystalised for many what would become the widely understood depiction of Santa Claus. This particular incarnation would later become intertwined with the European Father Christmas, creating the international figure we know today.

In fact, Moore remained anonymous as the author at first, worried that the secular nature of the poem could cause controversy for his position as a Baptist Minister. Once the popularity of the poem was assured though, Moore’s name became known and he forever became famous as the man who designed a central part of our modern day Christmas.