Morrow 1-L

The Morrow 1-L was a prototype tandem-seat trainer produced by the Morrow Aircraft Corporation. It employed plastic impregnated wood in its construction.

Design and development

Morrow Aircraft factory designed and built the Model 1-L tandem two-seat trainer for Civilian [Pilot Training Program]. Morrow Aircraft used a plastic bonded plywood construction for the body and was powered by a Lycoming O-435 engine. The Model 1-L was also called the Victory Trainer. The factory was at the Municipal Airport, San Bernardino, now Norton [Air Force Base]. Designed by Edgar Schmued who also worked on the North American P-51 Mustang. The Victory Trainer prototype was built, but not used for the World War II effort. The Victory Trainer wing and tail resembled that of the P-51 Mustang, so the plane was called the Little Mustang by some.
The aircraft was officially tested by Vance Breese in front of an audience of American and British military officials on 1 November 1941. Construction on a static test as well as a second airworthy airframe began a few weeks later. Following completion, the aircraft was flown to Purdue University Airport, where it was tested by Purdue University students.