Author of “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” the 1822 poem better known by its opening line: “’Twas the night before Christmas.” Title page from the book Sermons by Benjamin Moore (New York: T. and J. Swords, 1824), 4.75 x 8.5, signed and inscribed, “To Chancellor Kent, with the best respects of Clement C. Moore.” The book’s author, Benjamin Moore, was a Protestant bishop, president of Columbia College, and the father of Clement. Accompanied by a printed page from the same book which includes a prefatory note by Clement C. Moore, and a period engraving of the book’s recipient, James Kent. Autograph material by Moore is uncommon. In very good condition, with toning (somewhat more prominent at edges), faint scattered spotting (slightly touching signature), small tear to top edge (touching one word of inscription), small ink notation at bottom, and chip to one corner. R&R COA.
