Did you know that the iconic clubhouse behind the Old Course's first tee originally belonged to a different club? In this episode of The Secret of St. Andrews, we uncover the history of the Union Club, its ties to archery, and how it eventually merged with the R&A to become the legendary Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews.

Ever wonder how the scoring system in golf's greatest championships came to be? In this episode of The Secret of St. Andrews, we delve into the fascinating chaos of the R&A's original method for determining a champion—where players waited for clerks to scrutinize "jottings" before a winner was revealed. Join us as we uncover how this convoluted system led to the stroke play scoring we know today.

Three remarkable figures—John Rattray, Hugh Mercer, and David Wemyss—are at the heart of this episode of The Secret of St. Andrews. From their shared experience at the Battle of Culloden to their fascinating journeys across Scotland, France, and the American colonies, this story reveals their enduring patriotism, secret intelligence efforts, and lasting impact on history. Discover how their bonds, forged in rebellion, shaped Scotland’s future and influenced the American Revolution.

In this episode, we explore George Fullerton Carnegie’s Golfiana and its 1833 poem, The First Hole at St. Andrews on a Crowded Day. Dive into the colorful characters, vivid imagery, and timeless love for golf that Carnegie captures in this ode to the home of the sport. It’s a celebration of tradition, camaraderie, and the enduring charm of St. Andrews.

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Explore the unique wagering traditions of Scotland's early golfing societies, where bets on the course weren't just for profit but promoted unity among members. Discover how the rituals of Freemasonry influenced these clubs, weaving social harmony and spirited wagering into the fabric of 18th-century golf.

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Ben Franklin and his Scottish allies face off against the inflammatory rhetoric of John Wilkes, whose anti-Scottish and revolutionary propaganda threatens both British and colonial stability. As Franklin seeks diplomacy, Wilkes’ radical influence on American colonists only intensifies the growing call for independence.

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In this special episode, we dive into the fascinating connection between Scotland’s golfing history and its love for claret wine. We explore how this French Bordeaux became a symbol of Scottish nationalism, with roots tracing back to the Old Alliance of 1295. From golf wagers settled with smuggled bottles to the iconic claret jug awarded at the Open Championship, this episode uncorks the intriguing blend of history, wine, and the sport of kings.

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In this special edition of the Secret of St. Andrew's podcast, we uncover a fascinating golf match from 1738 featuring two remarkable women—one known only as "Charming Sally"—who made history on the Bruntsfield Links. Discover how these women, along with Maggie Johnston and Mary, Queen of Scots, left their mark on the game of golf and the enduring legacy of Scottish women in the sport.

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