In the later part of the 13th century, Edward I of England expanded English power north into Scotland and west into Wales. The Welsh, living in their forested hills, fought valiantly against the English, but Edward was simply too much for them. In December 1282, the Marcher Lords Gifford and Mortimer attacked. Llewellyn took a strong position blocking Orewin Bridge over the river Yrfon. It has been said that Llewellyn was not present, and the troops, without a commander, abandoned their position blocking the bridge, and allowed the English to cross. Llewellyn arrived on the scene, but too late to prevent the English army from attacking. The English archers wreaked havoc on the Welsh spearmen, and after a large number of them had been slain, an attack was made by men at arms. In the ensuing and bloody battle, Llewellyn was slain. This battle showed the toughness of the Welsh, and yes, the toughness of the English, who were fighting in winter in a strange land. In honor of both of these, we have selected this sword. It is a one-handed sword, with wooden grip covered with leather, and steel guard and pommel. This type of sword was quite valuable to the foot soldier of the period. Heavy enough to deliver a blow to cut mail, it was yet light enough to swing well without undue tiring. A well balanced and attractive sword.