Chris Ruli is a historian and researcher on early American Freemasonry and its often-overlooked relationship with politics and culture. A former Grand Historian and Librarian, Ruli leads efforts to digitize and disseminate Masonic research and strengthen academic approaches to studying Freemasonry. 

 

He is the author of The White House & The Freemasons and the upcoming Brother Lafayette. Ruli's work is featured in other print and popular media including The Washington Post, History Channel, and numerous history-focused podcasts.

 

He is an executive board member of the country's leading Masonic research institutions - the Scottish Rite Research Society and the Philalethes Society - where he serves as Associate Editor and Third Vice-President, respectively. He is also a contributing member of the Historical Society of Washington D.C.

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Professionally, Ruli has a background in statistics and international public health, with a focus on tracking and preventing infectious diseases. He is a graduate of Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) and a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer – Senegal.

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Awards and Recognitions

• Meritorious Service, DC Grand Lodge 2021

• Literature Of the Year, The Philalethes Society 2021

• James M. Coleman Volunteer of the Year, DC Masonic & Eastern Star Home Charities, 2023

• Knight Commander of the Court of Honor, Ancient And Accepted Scottish Rite Southern Jurisdiction, 2021.

• Fellow of the Philalethes Society, 2024

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General inquiries may be made through the contact form on this page. To request a speaking engagement, please complete this form.