Antique 1854 Union University diploma issued to James B. Shaw, dating to the antebellum period of the university’s Murfreesboro, Tennessee campus. The document features elaborate period typography and decorative engraving, Latin text, a central illustration of the university building, handwritten recipient information, and multiple period signatures.
The Roman numeral date shown on the diploma is MDCCCLIV, corresponding to 1854. This diploma dates to the original Murfreesboro-era Union University, an important chapter in Tennessee educational history before the Civil War disrupted the institution.
The diploma itself appears consistent with an original 19th-century document based on the paper, handwriting, signatures, printing style, and overall aging. It has not been professionally authenticated, and no separate certificate of authenticity or documented provenance is included.
The diploma is displayed in an approximately 19” x 19” professionally framed presentation. The frame appears to be of a later date and is not represented as antique. The document shows expected age-related wear, including toning, discoloration, fading, wrinkles/cockling, spotting, and other normal signs of age. Decorative printing and handwritten portions remain visible; please review all photographs carefully for condition and detail.
A distinctive piece of Murfreesboro, Tennessee educational history and an appealing display item for collectors of antique diplomas, Tennessee history, university memorabilia, pre-Civil War documents, and 19th-century Americana.
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