The F6C-1 was first TOC by the USN in March 1925. Although the contract called for delivery of ten F6C-1, only seven were actually flown as such, with the others modified with tailhooks and designated F6C-2s. These first Hawks participated in early successful trials of dive-bombing, the sturdier metal construction on the leading edge of their wings allowing pilots to dive at angles as great as 70 degrees. The museum's replica example of the F6C-1 was acquired from Chico, California, in 1986.

Painted in the 1931 markings of Marine Fighter Squadron 10 (VF-10M) Naval Air Station San Diego.