Customer Reviews

Solomon's Builders: Freemasons, Founding Fathers and the Secrets of Washington D.C.

5 star:		(15)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

It is refreshing to finally read a book on Freemasonry, written by a freemason. In his new book "Solomon's Builders", Christopher Hodapp presents traditions, explainations on masonry, history of famous freemasons and dispelling myths of Washington D.C. and its buildings regarding freemasons. Several recent books, fictional and non-fiction alike, have used symbols and ritual explainations of Freemasonry but wrongly or half truths. Without sharing signs or symbols reserved for those who seek Masonic membership, Hodapp brings the reader to an understanding of the Masonic world for the mason and non-mason alike.

If novels about masonry are leaving you wondering about Freemasonry, then read "Solomon's Builders" for reliable information.

Without question this book is sure to become a classic for Freemasons or those interested in Freemasonry. Incredibly well written based on extensive research and with a detailed bibliography to support the thesis. RWB Hodapp unfolds a tale that spans centuries of politics and characters in a smooth narrative that keeps the reader turning each page anxious to find out 'what happened next'.

Solomon's Builders covers the history and influence of Freemasonry in the founding of the United States and links the institution firmly within the enlightenment ideals that were spreading like wildfire around the globe; largely spread through Masonic lodges dispensing their own form of democracy and equality in every land.

This book is being marketed in hopes of taking advantage of the hype that will likely surround Dan Brown's next book 'Solomon's Key'. I can only encourage every person who reads Browns next work of fiction to turn to RWB Hodapp's well documented non-fiction presentation of the real story behind the myth.

I am an active Freemason for more than 4 decades. Bro. Hodapp's work is the first well written account of the philosophical thinking that led to the formation of a common man's democracy. This is the reference book that teachers need to read and public schools use in their American History classes. There are countless books written by non-masons on the origin of America but non give credit to the Freemasons for their ideas such as freedom, public schools, constitutions, bill of rights, and government by vote of those who owned land.

Karl Grube, Ph.D., President - Bonisteel Masonic Library - Ann Arbor

This is by the same author that wrote Freemasonry For Dummies. Both books are very informative and enjoyable to read if you interested in freemasony or just history of the United States

SOLOMON'S BUILDERS: FREEMASONS, FOUNDING FATHERS AND THE SECRETS OF WASHINGTON, D.C. deserves repeated and ongoing mention as an excellent survey of Freemason influences on United States history. It's hard to neatly peg this guide: it could go under new age or American history as neatly as in spirituality sections - so any library covering any of these topics needs SOLOMON'S BUILDERS, which presents a Freemason's tour of Washington D.C. and charts Masonic influence during the construction of America, from national monuments and symbolism in city streets to temples and keys to religious insights.

I really enjoyed this book. I've been reading Chris Hodapp's works for a while now and enjoy his style. He adds enough detail needed to make his points grounded in context, but it is not nearly as detailed or entrenched in volumes of history like Born In Blood.

He covers the founding of Freemasonry in the USA, as well as the Masonic influences (and addressing of some conspiracies) in the framing of the US government and establishment of the Capitol City, Washington DC.

This book is not a difficult read, and easily digested.
It can serve as a good starting point for historians and Masons interested in the origin of The Craft in the USA as well.
Well done!

This title sheds a great deal of light on the Masonic myths surrounding our nation's capitol. With an easy-to-read style and a factual storehouse of Masonic information, Hodapp delivers another insightful book for 21st century readers. He is anticipating the release by Dan Brown of "The DaVinci Code" sequel, which is to focus on Freemasonry and the beginnings of Washington D.C. Before any misunderstandings or misrepresentations of the order can take root and grow, Hodapp describes in detail the many ties between Freemasonry and the founding of the nation's capitol. He also informs the reader of what ties DON'T exist, dispelling myths that have arisen over the years.

This book is an excellent read. I recommend it highly to Masons and non-Mason alike. It's well-worth the price.

This book deals with America's Founding Father's and their Freemasonry. It also delves into the City of Washington, DC and the role Freemasons had in building, designing and living in it. I really enjoyed this book! I regretted reading the last page. I wanted it to continue! Overall, an excellent book covering an extremely interesting topic.

I loved Freemasons for Dummies and was equally impressed with Solomon's Builders as well. Very informative, and well sourced. Highly recommend both of his books.
Tony

I highly recommend this book. Bro. Hodapp did an excellent job presenting the true value of masonry and the significant positive influence the Craft had on the Founding Fathers of this country. I particularly liked the realistic presentation of the historic social and cultural issues of the day and how masonry provided a different reality for its members. Overall, the content of this book is both educational and enjoyable.