In 1940, Texas entrepreneurs Ben Anderson, Marvin Greenwood and Lomis Slaughter set out to build a two-seat, low wing aircraft for the sport aviation market.
However, because of the military’s growing need for strategic materials like aluminum, steel and rubber, they could not get materials needed to build their airplane and ended the project. All three went to work for Boeing in 1941.
After the war, the three returned to Houston to resume work on a new airplane with a focus on greater visibility for the pilot. By making it a “pusher” they ensured good visibility, but added engineering challenges including balance, sound-proofing and engine cooling. The new AG-14 made its first flight in September 1947. Manufacturing started in early 1950, but the outbreak of the Korean War once again imposed limits on the strategic materials that Anderson Greenwood & Company (AGCO) needed. Only five AG-14s were completed.
In the end, the AG-14 accomplished everything its creators wanted it to do. It had exceptional visibility, was easy to maintain, was comfortable and was “safe” since it was almost impossible to spin. Twice during the 1960s, groups of investors tried to put the AG-14 back into production but nothing came of the attempts. Today, only four of the Houston-built AG-14s survive.
ABOUT THIS AIRCRAFT
This aircraft was the last AG-14 built in 1953. It was purchased derelict by Dave Powell of Rogers, Arkansas and restored with the help of his father Walter, who had worked for AGCO for 35 years. Completed in May, 2007 the aircraft has won many awards at the EAA airshow at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. It was generously donated by Lester and Burdine Anderson-Giese, daughter of company founder Ben Anderson.
TEXAS CONNECTION
Three Texans, Ben Anderson, Marvin Greenwood and Lomis Slaughter, created Anderson Greenwood & Company and manufactured the AG-14 aircraft in a factory at the Sam Houston Airport in southwest Houston from 1950 to 1953. The AG-14 and the Bellanca Aries T-250 (designed by Greenwood) were the only aircraft ever manufactured in Houston.
