The Secret of St. Andrews Scott Dow

In Episode 1, "The British Deep State," explore the turbulent political landscape of Scotland during the formation of its first private golf clubs. Uncover the deep-seated injustices and aristocratic dominance that shaped the British political system, setting the stage for a gripping tale of power, rebellion, and the quest for fairness on and off the golf course.

In Episode 2, "The Rise of the Jacobites," delve into the profound influence of Scottish Jacobite rebels on the early private golf clubs of Scotland. Discover their fervent opposition to the Hanoverian government and their quest to restore the Stuart monarchy, fueled by a complex mix of religious, cultural, and political motives. Uncover the international dimensions of the Jacobite cause, particularly its ties with French supporters, and the dramatic consequences of their failed uprisings on Scottish history and the game of golf.

In Episode 3, "The Glencoe Massacre," journey to the Scottish Highlands for a harrowing tale of treachery and bloodshed that left an indelible mark on history. Discover the chilling story of the McDonalds of Glencoe, whose tragic fate at the hands of government soldiers in 1692 ignited the Jacobite cause and fueled a fierce spirit of rebellion. Uncover the dark legacy of this massacre and its profound impact on the struggles for loyalty, justice, and the Scottish heart.

In Episode 4, "The Battle of Culloden," witness a pivotal moment in British history as golfers and warriors collide on the battlefield. Discover the fates of key figures like John Rattray, Hugh Mercer, and David Weems, whose lives intertwined with the tumultuous Jacobite rising of 1745. Explore the cultural catastrophe that ensued, the brutal reprisals, and the lasting impact on Scotland's landscape and identity, all set against the haunting backdrop of the song "Loch Lomond."

In Episode 5, uncover a pivotal time in Scotland's history. As private golf clubs emerged, so did harsh reprisals from the British government, aiming to quash Jacobite rebellions. Explore the impact on key figures like David Weems of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club, forced into exile. Amidst this turmoil, the clubs thrived during the Scottish Enlightenment, a period of intellectual and cultural renaissance. Discover how these clubs became hubs for enlightenment ideals, providing a space for Scotland's elite to exchange ideas. 

Episode 6, "The Tobacco Lords," explores Scotland's tobacco trade rise and its impact on golfing societies, especially in Edinburgh and Glasgow. The American Revolution disrupted trade, complicating debt collection. The episode hints at insights into Saint Andrews' secrets through understanding golfing communities' role in the trade.