Just three prototype Columbia XJL-1 amphibians were manufactured in 1946 as proposed Grumman Duck replacements for the US Navy, Grumman contracting the work out as it was too busy with fighters for the USN to build the design. This one was allocated Bu Aer 31400. However it did not live up to expectations with several structural failures occurring, and testing at Patuxent River was abandoned. Sold in 1959 as N54205, it was flown from Philadelphia Navy Yard to Tucson in 1961. Although re-engined with a Wright R-2600, it was abandoned at Tucson Airport for decades till rescued by Pima.