This is actually a “non-exemption” exemption certificate. Nicely matted and framed this preprinted document was a “certificate of disability for exemption from military duty” in the Maryland militia. Numbered 14 and dated 5 November 1862, the document was intended to be filled out by an examining surgeon to exempt someone enrolled in the militia who was found to have a condition that “unfits him for service for a period of more than thirty days.” Dated less than two months after Antietam, and in Frederick County, you would think an exemption certificate would be something sought after. In this case, surgeon A. Hartman has helpfully written in by hand that Nelson Diehl of Mount Pleasant District is “not” exempt from militia duty. In spite of this liability, Diehl apparently survived to the ripe old age of 76 or 77, dying in Frederick in 1916.

The document is in excellent condition, bright and legible. It has some fold lines from Diehl likely keeping it in his pocket for his next encounter with Hartman, when he might discuss the matter. It has been nicely matted and framed. About 10 by 12 overall. The document itself around 5 by 7 by sight.  [sr]

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