'Twas the Night' Reading with Pamela McColl

Join us for a lively and informative presentation as Pamela McColl, historian, and the author of ’Twas the Night: The Art and History of the Classic Christmas Poem relays the poem's own story as it marks its bicentennial year (1823-2023).

Twas The Night – The Art and History of the Classic Christmas Poem, written by Pamela McColl, is the first cultural history to be published of the highly-celebrated poem A Visit from St. Nicholas, also known as Twas The Night Before Christmas.  Ten generations of children have been enchanted by this classic poem, first published in New York in 1823.  Stockings hung by the chimney in anticipation of the arrival of a jolly old elf riding in a sled, led by eight tiny reindeer, continues to ignite the imagination and create joy for people all over the world. 

The artwork and literary references presented in this publication were selected to demonstrate the way in which “The Poet of Christmas Eve” drew upon two centuries of winter cultural traditions and customs, as well as elements from the spiritual and secular sectors, in the creation of the work. Dozens of vintage illustrations were carefully chosen for this publication from the thousands of editions published over years, along with examples of works by both commercial illustrators and fine artist who were drawn to the poem's enchanting imagery.  In 2022 and 2023 the poem marks two bi-centennial milestones; first read aloud by Clement Clarke Moore of New York on Christmas Eve 1822, with its print debut appearing in the Troy Sentinel newspapers of Troy, New York for December 23, 1823.

Kirkus Reviews calls McColl’s book: “A delightful and informative exploration of “A Visit From St. Nicholas” for the holiday season."

Presentation and book signing will take place in the Welcome Center at Lyndhurst.

Tickets are free, but must be reserved in advance.

The ticket does not include entry into the Mansion but provides access to the grounds.

The event begins at the listed time, please arrive early to give yourself time to check-in.