Submitted by Dick Osha
This article was also included in her obituary (found on this site).
Lucretia Elizabeth Bonham was born on April 6th, 1865 in Fairfield, the daughter of Edward and Berintha Bonham. Her birthplace was the Bonham homestead which stood on the site now occupied by the Haefele-Dixon funeral home, where her funeral will be held.
As a young woman she contributed much to the social and literary life of Fairfield, and was the first woman of the county to receive a college degree. In 1886 she was graduated from the Cincinnati Wesleyan College with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. While in college she was instrumental in organizing I. C. Sorosis, which later became the National Pi Beta Phi Sorority.
In childhood she became a member of the Methodist church, and during the years of her membership, she had served as president of every women's organization within the church. Her guidance as a Sunday School teacher endeared her to many of the residents of this community.
In 1888 she was married to Jacob R. Creighton, at that time candidate for Attorney General of Illinois. Later Judge Creighton served as Judge of the Circuit and Appellate Courts, and was recognized as one of the state's most prominent jurists. To this union were born three children, Edward W. and Mary, wife of Paul D. Elgin, both of Los Angeles, and John M., who passed away October 7, 1941 in the family home in Fairfield. Judge Creighton's death occurred April 14, 1920.
Since the death of her husband, Mrs. Creighton has made her home in Los Angeles, where she was active in church and club circles. For many years she made her home at the New Rosslyn Hotel, there.
Active in Women's Work Here
During her many years of residency in Wayne county, she was instrumental in organizing the Fairfield Women's Club, the City Library, the Bible Society and many other organizations. As a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, she tried to establish a chapter in Fairfield at one time, but there were not enough eligible candidates.
By her friends she is remembered as a gracious hostess, possessed of great charm, and many of the older members of this community will recall the hospitality of the Creighton home.
To mourn her loss, Mrs. Creighton leaves her children, Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Creighton, and Mr. and Mrs. Paul D. Elgin, of Los Angeles, California; two sisters, Mrs. Zack H. Deem, of New Albany, Indiana, and Mrs. Harry E. Morris, of Wichita, Kansas.
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