Before 1823, most children outside Holland and Germany didnOt even know who Santa was. Then, in 1823, a New York newspaper printed an anonymous poem entitled "An Account of a Visit from St Nicholas". This was the first time many children in America had heard of Santa Claus. Wondering what might happen if they hung their stockings by the chimney, many children did, and were greeted by an array of treats. News of this incredible phenomenon spread quickly. Soon the poem was reprinted all over the world, and Santa Claus has been a very busy man ever since. This beautifully produced nineteenth century-style edition of this popular poem boasts atmospheric and gorgeously tactile black and white illustrations.