The Curtiss-Wright A-14-D was the brainchild of Fred Landgraf who was also instrumental in the development of the Alexander Eaglerock and the Rearwin "Ken-Royce" series of airplanes, among others. The similarity between these aircraft and the A-14-D is apparent (see enclosed pictures). This airplane was built in small numbers (eight) with six being bought by private individuals and two being sold to the Union Oil Company of California for test and promotional purposes.

The aircraft is your standard three-place open cockpit biplane from that period. This type of aircraft configuration was losing popularity by 1931 in favor of enclosed cabin aircraft that helps to explain the small number of aircraft sold, not to mention that a Depression was in full force at the time. The list price at the time was $10,895 with such options as a weather proof cover for the rear cockpit for $10.00, retractable landing lights for $200.00, and a two-tone color scheme other than the one-color standard for $100.00.

Of the eight examples built, the one at the Virginia Air Museum is the sole survivor. This plane was originally owned by the Curtiss Company who lent the aircraft to pilots if they had business with the company. Among the pilots who used this aircraft was New York City Mayor Laguardia and the famous test pilot Jimmy Dolittle.

The present owner, Allen H. Watkins of Allamance North Carolina, purchased this aircraft from the Curtiss Company before World War II and has owned it ever since. The insignia on each side of the aircraft is the Watkins family crest.