James Lee Simmons began designing, experimenting, and making propellers first at his Washington Aeroplane Company factory located on Water Street in the southwestern area of the district during the 1909-1910 period. By 1913, when this propeller was manufactured, the company also manufactured a line of "Columbia" monoplanes, biplanes, and flying boats based on European and American designs.

Like other early aircraft manufacturers, Simmons also fabricated Wright-type propellers for $100 (closer to $2,000 in modern currency) a pair, as well as variations of Chauviére and other French designers in two-, three-, and four-blade configurations.