Ep 9. Secrets of Brother XII

In season 5, episode 9 of Expedition Unknown, titled Secrets of Brother XII, host Josh Gates travels to Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada to investigate the mysterious story of Brother XII, a charismatic cult leader who gained a large following in the early 20th century.

Brother XII, whose real name was Edward Arthur Wilson, was a British immigrant who arrived in Canada in 1927 and quickly built a following of believers who were enamored by his message of spiritual enlightenment and the promise of a utopian community. Wilson convinced his followers to donate their life savings to the cause and eventually acquired several hundred acres of land on Vancouver Island, where he built a grand estate called the "Castle." However, as time went on, rumors began to circulate about Wilson's excessive spending and abusive behavior towards his followers.

Gates begins his investigation by visiting the site of the Castle, where he meets with local historian John MacLachlan Gray, who has extensively researched Brother XII's life. Gray explains that the Castle was built with the help of Wilson's followers, who were forced to work long hours and endure harsh living conditions in exchange for the promise of spiritual enlightenment. Gray also reveals that Wilson's teachings were heavily influenced by Theosophy, a spiritual movement that gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

As Gates explores the ruins of the Castle, he discovers evidence of the cult's grandeur, including an intricate system of tunnels that connected the various buildings on the property. He also meets with a former follower of Brother XII who shares her firsthand account of life in the community. She describes the intense manipulation and coercion that Wilson used to control his followers, even going so far as to claim that he destroyed her marriage and forced her to abort a pregnancy.

Throughout the episode, Gates delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding Brother XII, unraveling a complex web of rumors and speculation. He explores the possibility that Wilson may have been involved in money laundering and organized crime, as well as the claim that he may have possessed supernatural powers. He also uncovers a number of intriguing artifacts, including a mysterious box that Wilson allegedly used to communicate with spirits.

Ultimately, Gates leaves Vancouver Island with a greater understanding of the enigmatic figure of Brother XII and the dark legacy he left behind. Despite the many questions that remain unanswered, it is clear that Wilson's cult had a profound impact on the lives of his followers and the history of the region. Through his exploration of the Secrets of Brother XII, Gates sheds light on a fascinating and haunting chapter in Canadian history.