In this episode of "The Secret of St. Andrews," we delve into the historic visit of Benjamin Franklin to St. Andrews in 1759. Franklin's honorary Doctor of Laws degree and the freedom of the borough were significant achievements for the town and university, setting the stage for secret diplomatic efforts. Discover how this visit, orchestrated by influential members of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club, opened covert channels between American and Scottish patriots, forging a bond that would persist through the Revolutionary War.

Welcome to this special US Open edition of The Secret of St Andrew's Podcast. Since the first US Open in 1895, 10 Scotsmen have won the championship 14 times, with the last win by Tommy Armour in 1927. These Scottish champions were deeply rooted in the golf tradition, often starting as caddies and club makers before becoming renowned golfers and teachers in America. This year's championship is at Pinehurst No. 2, designed by Scotsman Donald Ross, a testament to the enduring legacy of Scottish influence in golf. Play well, lads.

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In this Bonus episode of The Secret of Saint Andrews Podcast, we take a look inside Scotland's first golfing societies!

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After the Battle of Culloden, a period of Cold War set in, lasting for the next two decades. The musket and cannon were replaced by espionage, propaganda, and psychological warfare, and the game of golf found itself in the midst of it all. The Hanoverian government, concerned about future Jacobite uprisings, targeted Scotland’s first golfing societies due to their close ties to Scottish freemasonry and the Royal Company of Archers. These golfers, including prominent figures like William Saint Clare, James Weems, and John Rattray, were under surveillance. Despite the government’s suspicions, the golfers posed little actual threat, but tensions remained high.

Discover the intriguing origins of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, established in 1754 as the Society of St. Andrews Golfers. Dive into the rich history of its founding members, their Masonic ties, and the club's evolution, culminating in its royal designation in 1834. Uncover the political and social dynamics that shaped this iconic institution and its pivotal role in the revival of St. Andrews and the game of golf.

In this episode, we explore the rise of private golf clubs in 18th-century Scotland during a tumultuous time in British history. We trace the origins of these societies, from the Royal Burgess Golfing Society and the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, to the formation of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews. These early clubs, influenced by Freemasonry, navigated political tensions and fostered a sense of unity and tradition among their elite members. Join us as we uncover how these societies shaped the world of golf and left a lasting legacy on Scottish and American history.

In this special edition, we celebrate the PGA Championship by honoring Scottish golfers who shaped the sport. We highlight Tommy Armour, winner of the 1930 PGA Championship, and his influence on the game. We also explore the contributions of Jack "Pop" Hoens, Stuart Maiden, Donald Ross, and William Stormont Dow, whose legacy in American golf remains significant. Join us as we uncover these remarkable stories and their lasting impact on the world of golf.

In this episode, we journey through the historic town of Saint Andrews, once the ecclesiastical heart of Scotland, now better known as the home of golf. We delve into its transformation from a major pilgrimage site, housing the relics of Saint Andrew, to its decline following the Protestant Reformation and the sacking of its once-glorious cathedral. Join us as we explore how this town, despite its decaying grandeur, played a pivotal role in the origins of golf and the formation of Scotland's first private golf clubs.