Featured Actual Uniform or Prop/Costume?

I’ve been going through old family photos recently discovered. Age wise this would’ve been around the turn of the century.
Any info on whether is this a reservists uniform or some kind of photo studio prop or?

Thank You!

 

Could be Masonic.

 

Think this is a clue, but I don't know what what a cross and cane mean.

 

It would be called a "crook," and may indicate the Odd Fellows fraternity.
See http://arms2armor.com/Swords/patriarc.htm for information and a very similar photo, showing the same symbol on the collar; the Patriarchs Militant is apparently a uniformed branch of the IOOF (International Order of Odd Fellows).

 

Speaking of arcane information...!!!

 

That's it:

 

Wow! You guys are awesome!!

I’ve got a few of his Masonic certifications and some from an early Shriners related group, now this. I guess he was into this type of thing...maybe he didn’t like going to church and needed something to do?

Thanks so much again for the help!

 

Awesome!!

 

Maybe he couldn't get enough. I know nothing of IOOF, but Masonic orders have a religious component in their rituals.

 

It's part of it, IIRC, but I don't think Oddfellows discriminated. Part of there schtick was "do some good while you're here" and the Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself bit.

 

Back in those days, there wasn't much else to do and people joined fraternal organizations to socialize. Jon's grandfather was a member of three different organizations. Got him out of the house and away from chores!!

 

Knights of Columbus I thought , but they are an anchor and a sword. Always one to consider when dealing with fraternal stuff.