Twas the Night: A Celebration of the 200th Anniversary of the Iconic Poem

Since it was published in 1823, the iconic Christmas poem known as ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas has charmed and delighted families while influencing the image of Santa Claus as a sleigh-riding, chimney diving jolly old elf.

The Friends of Hearthside welcomes special guest author Pamela McColl on her national book tour for a special evening steeped in history and nostalgia to celebrate this special 200th anniversary. “The Art & History of ‘Twas the Night” is a keepsake book that was written by McColl and features an alluring history and examination about the poem and accompanied throughout with colorful images and illustrations peppering the text of the book.  McColl will be providing a talk about the topics in her book with the origins of St. Nicholas and the cultural customs tied to Christmas throughout history, as well as controversies over Clement Moore’s writing of the poem.

The two-part event is held at two of Great Road’s historic sites that are both over 200 years old….Hearthside and the Butterfly Mill in Lincoln, RI.  The evening begins with at Hearthside to enjoy tours through the gaily decorated house with trees in every room throughout three floors of the museum with guides in period attire adding to the feeling of stepping back to the time when the poem was written.  Guests will then proceed across the street to the recently-restored Butterfly Mill where they will be welcomed by music and children singing carols from the Pullen’s Corner Schoolhouse.  Festivities continue with a cocktail reception and the book talk. Featured among the refreshments are the “Twelve Tastes of Christmas” and a traditional Wassail bowl.  Owner of the Butterfly House, Nicole Gonzalez Van Clive  will host and moderate the book discussion.  The evening concludes with a dramatic reading of the poem.

Books, including “The Art & History of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and the special 200th Anniversary edition of the children’s version of “The Night Before Christmas” are available for purchase at the Hearthside Gift Shop during the event, as well as at the other Christmas events held during the first two weekends in December.

Having a 200-year anniversary celebration of this poem at these two buildings that date back to that time period makes the event extra special.  Clement Moore who authored the poem actually has ties to Rhode Island, having lived in Newport for the last 7 years of his life.

The event is a fundraiser for the Friends of Hearthside and is for adults.  Advance ticket purchase only before December 5th.  Cost is $55.  To reserve, visit hearthsidehouse.org.

The Friends of Hearthside is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization serving to preserve, protect, promote, and interpret the four town-owned historic properties along Great Road.  All proceeds support this mission.  For more information, contact [email protected] or 726-0597.