Clement Clarke Moore (July 15, 1779 – July 10, 1863) was an American writer, scholar, and real estate developer, best known for his poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas," which famously begins with the line "'Twas the Night Before Christmas." Born in New York City, Moore was the son of Benjamin Moore, a prominent Episcopal bishop and president of Columbia College. Educated at Columbia, Clement graduated as valedictorian in 1798 and later received a Master of Arts and an honorary Doctor of Laws.

Moore held a long academic career as a professor of Oriental and Greek Literature, Divinity, and Biblical Learning at the General Theological Seminary in New York City, which was built on land he donated. He was also an influential real estate developer, responsible for developing the Chelsea neighborhood in Manhattan.

His poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" was first published anonymously in 1823 and later claimed by Moore in 1837. Despite a controversy over its authorship, with some attributing it to Henry Livingston Jr., Moore's claim was undisputed during his lifetime.

Moore married Catharine Elizabeth Taylor in 1813, and they had several children. He was involved with various institutions, serving on the boards of Columbia College, the New York Society Library, and the New York Institute for the Blind. Moore passed away in Newport, Rhode Island, and is buried at Trinity Church Cemetery in Manhattan. His legacy continues to be celebrated, particularly through annual readings of his famous Christmas poem.