Hi Richard
I'm also looking at the Cretney Family and followed your family tree to the USA.

My records show Thomas was christened on 27 Jan 1803 at St Marks Malew.

William his son was born 30 Dec 1842 at St Marks and christened on 3 Jan 1843.

His son Thomas Arthur was born 14 Dec 1881 and passed through Ellis Island on 29 Mar 1902 and was naturalised 7 Dec 1908. He married Ethel on 23 Nov 1911 and was a well travelled man as he passed through Ellis Island again in 1921 travelling from Liverpool (possibly a trip home).
I hope this info either confirms what you already know or adds to it.

Regards Allan C