Robert L. D. Cooper

Robert L.D. Cooper

Brother Cooper was the Curator of the Grand Lodge of Scotland Museum and Library. A distinguished Masonic scholar and lecturer whose extensive body of work encompasses the history, symbolism, and traditions of Freemasonry, including related subjects such as the Knights Templar, Rosslyn Chapel, and the St. Clair family. In 2005, he undertook a global lecture tour spanning South Africa, India, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, where his contributions as a Scottish Freemason were warmly received. His engagements have since extended across numerous U.S. states and several European and Far Eastern countries.

A recognized public figure, Brother Cooper has featured in television and radio programs, notably *The Real da Vinci Code*, and has participated in international broadcasts across the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. His articulate defense of the Craft during a BBC Radio Scotland interview on "Call Kate" remains particularly memorable.

Initiated into The Lodge of Light No. 1656, Brother Cooper later became a Founder Member and Past Master of Lodge Edinburgh Castle No. 1764, presiding in 1998. He also served as Master of Lodge Sir Robert Moray No. 1641—the premier Scottish Lodge of Research—where he instituted collective research projects that engaged the Lodge’s membership. Furthermore, he is a Past Master of Lodge Quatuor Coronati No. 2076 (London), the world’s oldest Lodge of Research, reflecting his enduring commitment to Masonic scholarship and education.

The Origins and History of the Order of Free Gardeners

Freemasonry only had one serious competitor, and that was from Free Gardenery. Both came from the same roots, the former from the trade of stonemasonry and the latter from that of gardening. It was anticipated that membership of Lodges would be drawn from men working in those trades. But from the outset, Free Gardeners initiated men who were not gardeners, and this was specifically catered for in their first written rules of the order. What attracted these gentlemen gardeners to seek admission to a Lodge is not clear, but perhaps the elaborate rituals, regalia, and practical advice cannot be ruled out.

The parallels between Free Gardenery and Freemasonry were remarkably similar to Freemasonry in that both were created by operative Scottish gardeners and stonemasons, respectively. A comparison between the two orders and their origins and development provides an unusual dimension for the study of both.

This book provides the reader a fantastic introduction to the fraternity of Free Gardeners, outlining its history, showing its regalia, and describing its degrees.