Author of the Famous American Freemasons Series
The Feast of Tishri
Todd was invited to speak at the Valley of Danville’s Feast of Tishri. It was a very special invitation for Todd. He became a 32º Mason at the Valley of Danville, and the Valley of Danville had taken a very active role in helping him promote his first book. As if that weren’t enough, the Valley of Danville had honored him as the “2009 Mason of the Year.” Todd was grateful for the opportunity to finally thank the members of the valley in person.
After a delicious meal, Todd gave a brief speech, and then tried something totally different. He challenged the audience with trivia questions. The Danville crowd knew their history well, and it turned into a lively competition. It was a memorable evening.
From Bloomington, Illinois: 6/27/09
Suit Up! Illinois Council of Deliberation
Todd was invited to speak at the annual meeting of the Illinois Council of Deliberation in Bloomington, Illinois. It was the first time he had worn a tux since he was married, but he was glad he went to the effort. He was surprised to learn that he was dining at the head table with Grand Master of Illinois, Daniel C. Yandell and his wife, as well as the Grand High Priest Richard Yena and his wife, and the Illustrious Commander-in-Chief of the Illinois Council of Deliberation Lee B. Lockwood, 33º. Since it was so close to the Fourth of July, Todd’s speech was focused on celebrating America, and how Freemasons had not only helped to found our nation, but had also shaped our uniquely American culture. Afterwards, he signed copies of Famous American Freemasons, and took preorders for Famous American Freemasons: Volume II due out in July 2009. And of course, he never misses an opportunity to promote, announcing the soon-to-be-released book of quotes “A Freemason Said That? Great Quotes of Famous Freemasons” scheduled for release in Fall 2009.
From Cyberspace: 5/15/09
Masonic Travels Website
Recently, I've really been enjoying a website called Masonic Travels. Brother Ken Dennis has done a really fine job putting together a site that has a little something for everyone, including a lot articles and information, and even an impressive collection of Masonic photos and images.
And while you're there, be sure and read an article I submitted called "A True and Upright Mason." It's a great story about one of America's most remarkable men.
You'll find the site at www.masonictravels.com Check it out--I think you'll enjoy it.
TEC
From Catlin, IL: 3/7/09
Todd and Valerie were invited to join the members of Catlin Lodge No. 285 at a Past Master’s Dinner. After an enormous meal of fried chicken with all the fixings, and home-made desserts, Todd spoke to the audience from the 113 year old stage of the Catlin Opera House—one the first floor of Catlin Lodge No. 285. He talked about the long 150-year tradition of Masonry in Catlin, the history of Masonry in America, and ended with some interesting history he dug up about Catlin Lodge No. 285. The building, as it stands today, looks just like the photograph above taken in the 1940s. The Opera House itself underway a major renovation by the members of the lodge, and continues to be a community meeting place, as it has been since it was built in 1896.
An interesting note, the Lodge held its first meeting in the “new” building the week after another Freemason, William McKinley, was inaugurated President of the United States.
The following is reprinted, in part, from the Catlin Historical Society webpage:
“In the year of 1858 the Catlin Lodge No.285 received their Charter from the Grand Lodge of the state of Illinois of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons. The Lodge was organized on the 7th day of October 1858, with the first Worshipful Master being Dr. Allen Latham. In the beginning they were located in the old frame school building on the cur-rent Catlin Park grounds. This frame building was later condemned as unfit for children, the brick structure which we refer to as the old grade schoolwas then built on the same site. In the late 1890’s the members started to consider building a two-story building of their own.
In 1914 the Lodge had a curtain made for the stage. Local Catlin and Danville business advertisements were sold and placed on the curtain. In later years the curtain was removed and the Catlin Historical Society be-came caretakers of this large piece of Mason history. Last year the Society, whom regrettably had no area large enough to display, returned the curtain to its rightful owners and once again it hangs on the Masonic stage. Its showing age but still looks great! “
Catlin Lodge will be marking their 150th Anniversary with a re-dedication ceremony this Fall.
National Review: Nov/Dec 2008
Bro. Todd E. Creason, Famous American Freemasons, Morrisville, N.C.: Lulu.com, 2007, paperbound, 280 pages, ISBN 978-1-4357-0345-2. Available on the Internet, new and used, from about $17.00
I’ll admit when I first saw the title of this book, I thought “Oh joy abounding, yet another list.” Wrong, very wrong. Brother Creason has put together a joy of a book. Its great charm is in its narrative style. He doesn’t list famous American Freemasons, he tells you about them, in a way which even keeps you guessing for a while as to the subject of each sketch. His research has unearthed information not in the usual biographies, or at least not presented in such a compelling way. Each sketch runs about five to seven pages, and you will find good humor and honest respect for his subjects. The entries are grouped under the classifications of American Patriots, American Presidents, Military Men, American Entertainers, and American Legends. Under American Legends, as an example, you will find The Explorers, The Equalizer, The Empresario, The Old Scout, and The Aviator. It’s a lot of fun to read these biographical sketches, but they are addictive—you always want to read just one more. Incidentally, this would make a great educational series for Lodge meetings. Each one is short enough to be read in a meeting and gripping enough that the Brethren would be sure to enjoy it. Give a copy to yourself for Christmas, and buy a second one for the Lodge, and a third to give to your local public library.
~James T. Tresner II, 33°, Grand Cross, Book Review Editor
From Pekin, IL: 10/30/08
Gourmet Meal, Fun and Fellowship in Pekin Wrap-Up the Last Event
This was the last stop in my promotion tour for Famous American Freemasons: Volume I, and I couldn’t have picked a better place to do! There was a good turn out, I met a lot of interesting people, and saw a lot of familiar faces of friends I’d met in other places. The meal was absolutely fabulous. I’ve never seen a three course gourmet meal served in a Masonic Lodge before.
1st course—Apple and Butternut Squash Soup
2nd course—Duo of Pan Seared Chicken Breast with Pomegranate-Balsamic Glaze and Roasted Pork Loin with Apricot, Pumpkin Risotto, and Braised Autumn Greens
3rd course—Chocolate Mousse
And the service was impeccable. The Job’s Daughters were in charge of the service, and did a terrific job of serving drinks, bringing out the meal, and picking up the plates.
The organizers of the Pekin Dinner did a great job of coming up with a very unique event. They wanted an event that might get past active members interested in being more active again, get potential members interested in joining, but also something just about everyone could enjoy. They even raffled off copies of the book.
My compliments to the Chef! I’d like to especially thank Kevin Wurster for doing so much to organize the event. Thanks to the Job’s Daughters for doing such a good job, and to the volunteers who helped prepare and clean up. And special thanks also to Judy Gordon for taking so many great pictures.
I hope those that attended Pekin enjoyed my presentation as much as I enjoyed being there.
Sincerely,
Todd E. Creason
And the great service was provided by these young ladies from Bethel No. 55 of the Job's Daughters.
This is our Most Excellent Companion Richard Yena, Grand High Priest of Royal Arch Masons of Illinois.
From Chicago, IL: 9/17/08
Creason Interview to Air on CNN Headline News
Todd E. Creason was recently interviewed by award winning news anchor Paul Lisnek for ComCast Newsmaker about his book “Famous American Freemasons.” He talked about famous Americans throughout history that were Masons as well as talking about what Masonry is, and how somebody interested in Masonry would go about joining the fraternity. His interview was the last one in a series of nine interviews that focused on different aspects of Masonry.
The five minute interview will air on CNN Headline News on ComCast cable between October 13 – 19 at 24 and 54 minutes past the hour. Todd’s spot will come up in rotation about four times a day for the entire week.
From Lawrenceville, IL: 8/23/08
Todd Speaks at Second Author Event Sponsored by the Bridgeport York Rite Bodies
Brother Todd E. Creason was invited to speak at an author dinner sponsored by the Bridgeport York Rite Bodies on Saturday August 23th. It was held at Callahan's Restaurant in Lawrenceville, IL for husbands, wives and families. After a social hour and book signing, a delicious dinner, and a hilarious introduction entitled "Only In America" given by the always entertaining Brother Bill Hussey, Todd gave a short talk about Freemasons in American history.
He also spoke about Freemasonry, and what it has meant to him, and how he was inspired by his experiences in the fraternity into writing a series of books. Todd often comments after these events that he is continually surprised by how much the average Freemason knows about American history. As a whole, Masons are very well connected to their history, which is probably much of the reason there has been such interest in his book. As usual, Todd learned a few things he didn't know, and got a few ideas that he will most likely work into his book.
Todd was especially honored to be asked to speak at the event, because he knew many of the members from his membership in the Scottish Rite Valley of Danville. In fact, the event was the very first event he was asked to do after he published his book. He also had a chance to visit with some of the members that only a few short months earlier had participated in putting on the Commandery Degrees in nearby Olney, IL where Brother Creason became a Sir Knight along with about twenty more individuals.
This is the second author event put on by the Bridgeport York Rite Bodies--the first event featured Christopher Hodapp, the author of the popular "Freemasonry for Dummies."
From Lincoln, IL: 7/29/08
Todd E. Creason Speaks In Lincoln, IL.
On Tuesday, July 29th, Brother Todd E. Creason spoke to an audience of Masons at Lincoln Lodge No. 210. He arrived in town just before the weather did. A severe thunderstorm hit Lincoln moments after he got there, but there was still a good crowd that braved the weather attended the event. Todd joked at the beginning of the speech that he’d like to thank the community leaders of Lincoln for the terrific reception—apparently nobody had ever heralded his arrival to an event by setting off the storm sirens before.
In the speech Creason explained about how he came to author, compile and publish his newly released book "Famous American Freemasons." Creason also shared with the group as to what induced him to become a Mason and how his love for history inspired him to unite the two passions into what will is the first of three volumes. He also spoke briefly about his involvement with the 32nd Degree Masonic Learning Centers for Children and stressed the importance of the work that organization does. Afterwards Creason shared refreshments with the group and answered questions while signing books.
The event was co-sponsored by Lincoln Lodge No. 210 and Mt. Pulaski Lodge No. 87, and Todd would like to thank the brethren of these two lodges for inviting him. There were several other lodges in attendance including DeWitt Lodge No. 84, Henderson Lodge No. 820, Morton Lodge No. 352 and Atlanta Lodge No. 165. He hopes that he’ll be invited back upon the publication of the second volume of “Famous American Freemasons.”
