Moore, Clement Clarke

(July 15, 1779-July 10, 1863). Seminary professor and renowned poet. He was born in Chelsea in New York City. Moore graduated from Columbia College in 1798. He studied for the ordained ministry but was never ordained. In 1809 he published A Compendious Lexicon of the Hebrew Language: In Two Vols. It was a major publication that made him the pioneer in the United States of Hebrew lexicography. In Feb. 1819 he donated sixty lots in New York City, including Chelsea Square, on the condition that a theological seminary be built there. This is now the General Theological Seminary. Moore was Professor of Hebrew and Greek Literature at General Seminary from 1821 until 1850. In 1822 Moore composed for his children the poem A Visit From St. Nicholas, popularly known as “'Twas the night before Christmas.” Moore died in Newport, Rhode Island.