identify old uniform

[joemc]

Hi I was wondering if anyone can identify this uniform, not sure if its military, maybe Fire Brigade?

I think it's from Ireland, late 19C perhaps?

Thanks for any help, Joe

[Trishanne]

I'm wondering  if he may be a postman with his bag, I have never seen a fireman with a strap across his body, but that doesn't mean to say none of them do.  The numbers on the hat are puzzling though, because firemen in America and possibly elsewhere do have the number of their station on them. Sorry I have not been much help,
Pat

[joemc]

Thanks for reply, yeah maybe not sure if postmen had numbers on hats, I was thinking maybe a train giard. Or maybe it is military

[Treetotal]

Hi Joe, I think this could be railway related, there is something on the chair, could it be a whistle? He could be a railway guard or ticket collector. I believe the photo is earlier than your suggestion, it looks more 1860s/70s to me. Is there any chance that you could post the back including the corners to help with dating?
Carol

[joemc]

Thanks for the input, unfortunately the photo is not mine, it was posted on a FB genealogy page, I was just trying to help. Not sure what that is on the chair. I thought a small baton, but hard to say, looks to big for a whistle. I will see if I can get anymore details from poster, they seemed to think it was military.

[SiGr]

Hi,
I would suggest you re-post this to the Armed Forces page for comment.
What stands out most to me are the crown and ‘pip’ rank badges on his collar. That does not necessarily mean he is military as, I believe, Police forces, former and current, use similar badges.
Second, the number on his cap might be useful details for those way better informed than me.
Good luck with your research.
Simon

[Neale1961]

Spurs on his boots?
Wearing at least 2 medals.
Something about it makes me think American uniform.

[SiGr]

No, definitely British/British Empire. Note on his cross belt there is a starred badge with a Victorian crown on it. Saying that, acknowledging the comment about it possibly being Irish, I think it might also be non-UK uniform, i.e. Australia, New Zealand etc. On the spurs, as a 'field officer' equivalent (although the crown and pip have not always indicated a Lieutenant-Colonel or equivalent) he would be 'mounted' and so wear spurs.
To the original poster, definitely try the Armed Forces board for more informed comment.
Regards.
Simon

[joemc]

Thank you for all the replies so far, great to get some well informed opinions, yes I will repost or can admin transfer to armed forces forum?

Thanks again
Joe