All Episodes

April 24, 2025 10 mins

To listen to this entire episode FREE & support more content like this subscribe to MAGI at patreon.com/MAGIAcademics.

Have you ever wondered about the origins of mysterious words used in Freemasonry? In this episode of Cooper on the Case, host Robert Cooper dives deep into the intriguing history of the term “Cowan”—a word that appears in Masonic ritual as a warning, yet traces back to everyday Scottish life, surnames, and the world of stonemasons.

Join Robert as he explores references from Dr. George F. Black’s Surnames of Scotland, unpacks centuries-old statutes, and scours historical accounts to reveal how “Cowan” made the leap from a common surname and rural occupation to a loaded term inside Masonic lodges. Discover why Masons were cautioned NEVER to work with Cowans, the social and occupational divisions behind it, and how this single word offers a fascinating window into the evolution of modern Freemasonry.

Whether you’re a Mason, a history buff, or just curious about secret societies and Scottish traditions, this episode serves up captivating insights and untold stories. Tune in and let Robert Cooper take you on a detective’s journey to uncover the true meaning—and mystery—of Cowan.

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

Stuff You Should Know

Stuff You Should Know

If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.