William J S Ashford
Boatswain

Pre World War One Royal Navy Warrant Officers Sword
Royal Navy Warrant Officer’s Sword C.1910
This sword was the possession of a Boatswain W. J. S. Ashford of the Royal Navy, who died of an illness in 1919.
I understand that these swords are far rarer than the similar officer’s sword as there were fewer Naval Warrant Officers serving and, unlike the officer’s swords, these swords had to be returned upon completion of service.
Perhaps this is why the sword was never returned to the Navy.
The blade itself is finely etched with scrolls, anchors and the Royal Coat of Arms. The base of the blade is marked ‘J. Friedeberg, Queen St., Portsea.
The sword comes with the regulation hilt with folding brass side guard, the original gold pommel and sword knot are attached and in perfect condition. The leather scabbard is brass mounted and in excellent condition.
Included with the sword is the original traveling black leather carrying case although this has seen better days.

This is William's World War One Medal Trio comprising
1914-15 Star, World War One Medal and Victory Medal
They are all marked to “Bosn W J S Ashford RN”.

William died on 16th April 1919 after an illness, nothing more is known about it.
Official record: 5816 ASHFORD WILLIAM J. S. BOATSWAIN 16-Apr-1919 ILLNESS

His sword and his medals were for sale online in September 2005:
1914-1915 Star, British War Medal & Victory Medal - Bos’n. W. J. S. Ashford R.N. Died 16-9-1919 whilst serving on HMS Repulse & buried in Portsmouth (Kingston) Cemetery. (NEF) £115

Best regards
Harry Pitt

Please contact Andy (webmaster) with any information.

Andy Wade (Webmaster)

Information provided by
Harry Pitt, Don Kindell and CWGC.