Ok folks this is a crazy one. I have a collection of antique Masonic / Knights Templar / Secret Society uniforms and regalia. Yes, like THOSE Masons, like actual full on Freemasons. I purchased this from the estate of a deceased member of a Masonic lodge, I think he was some sort of leader. We are only now just seeing more of these kinds of garms pop up as freemasons die off and their lodges close- and I must say, its quite difficult to find info about pieces from these societies due to theirs uh *secretive* nature and incredibly confusing history.

Ok so now about this piece: From the same estate as this tunic, I bought a Masonic trunk dated 1910, I'd wager this piece is from the same period. This was made by The Petitbone Bros MFG, which was founded sometime in the 1890s and seems to have shutdown sometime after WW2. They were based in Cincinati, Ohio. The Petitbros MFG produced uniforms for the military, secret societies and also made costumes. I was able to find a style match for this piece in one of their catalogs from 1915, Ive included a picture in the post.. HOWEVER, I dont think that this is a costume - mostly due to the motif on the center front. I believe that this is a depiction of the Masonic Burning Star, an important masonic symbol, which also ties into something called the OES (Order of the Eastern Star). That said, I am still trying to find out more about this piece,I have contacted some Masonic museums but havent heard back yet. If you can help or have info, please give me a message.

Now thats pretty much all I can say, but for those still following - here’s are a couple more details of this piece that might help you or I get more info. On the inside of this tunic, it says “2nd Guard” written on the inside, which may have something to do with 2nd Degree fellow craft tier Masons - which I think has something to do with initiation level. On the top clasp at the back of the neck, it says “Pat\’d 1895”. One of the buttons has “Kuppenheimer” branding, but the buttons are mismatched so I wouldnt read too far into it.

No Tagged size - In my opinion, item fits somewhere around a Mens Small and Medium but its hard to say cause like wtf is this.

Measurements (TAKEN LAYING FLAT, IN INCHES)
Chests: 22.5
Length: 38
Shoulder: 19.5
Sleeve Length: 25

Flaws: Could def use a dry clean as its clearly sat in storage forever, theirs wear and some staining but all things considered is in food shape for the age.

AS ALWAYS: Check all photos carefully and read the description fully for info and condition. Item comes as shown and described. Check measurements for sizing, all measurements taken according to Grailed guidelines. Message me with any questions prior to purchase. I typically ship on Mondays and Fridays, and sometimes Wednesdays. All sales are final but please contact me directly if there are any issues with your order.
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