2 / 2

Clement Clarke Moore, an Episcopal minister, wrote a poem called "An Account of a Visit from St. Nicholas," also known as "Twas the Night Before Christmas," for his three daughters in 1822. The poem, which Moore initially hesitated to publish due to its light-hearted subject matter, played a significant role in shaping the modern image of Santa Claus as a cheerful, plump elf with the ability to ascend chimneys with ease. The poem also introduced the concept of Santa traveling from house to house on Christmas Eve in a small sleigh pulled by flying reindeer to deliver gifts to good children. This poem helped establish Santa Claus as a popular American icon.

In 1881, political cartoonist Thomas Nast drew on Moore's poem to create an image of Santa that closely resembles the modern portrayal of the character. His cartoon, which appeared in Harper's Weekly, depicted Santa as a happy, round man with a full white beard, carrying a bag filled with toys for children. Nast also gave Santa his signature bright red suit with white fur trim, a workshop at the North Pole, and elves as helpers, as well as Mrs. Claus as his wife.

MERRY CHRISTMAS