John Ward Gilman Sword Up for Auction Today

A sword crafted by Exeter's John Ward Gilman will be auctioned off today.

The sword features a silver pommel in the shape of lion’s head. it will be auctioned off today at 5 p.m. at the Dover Elks Lodge.

New Hampshire-based Leo Legare Auction Services is handling the auction, which will also feature a sword made by Portsmouth silversmith Samuel Drowne. Several other historical items will be auctioned off.

John Ward Gilman was a silversmith in Exeter. He is buried at the Winter Street Cemetery in town. His family played a crucial role in funding the Revolutionary War and rallying citizens to the colonists' cause. Gilman is credited with creating New Hampshire's state seal.

Gilman's sword had been in the care a New England family for several generations, according to the auctioneer.

Drowne also helped solidify support for the Revolution.