35 Facts About Marie Van Brittan Brown

Who Was Marie Van Brittan Brown?

Marie Van Brittan Brown was an African American nurse and innovator. She is best known for inventing the first home security system. Her invention laid the groundwork for modern security systems used today.

1. Born in Queens, New York, in 1922, Marie Van Brittan Brown spent her life in the same city.
2. She worked as a nurse, often on irregular hours, which inspired her to create a security system for her home.
3. Her husband, Albert Brown, was an electronics technician who helped her develop the security system.
4. Marie and Albert filed a patent for their invention in 1966, which was granted in 1969.
5. The patent number for their invention is 3,482,037.

What Did Her Security System Include?

Marie Van Brittan Brown's security system was revolutionary for its time. It included several features that are still used in modern systems.

6. The system had a set of four peepholes at different heights to accommodate people of various heights.
7. A camera could slide up and down to look through each peephole.
8. The camera was connected to a monitor inside the house, allowing residents to see who was at the door.
9. The system included a two-way microphone for communication with visitors.
10. It also had a remote control to unlock the door from a distance.

How Did Her Invention Impact Modern Security Systems?

Marie Van Brittan Brown's invention has had a lasting impact on the security industry. Many of her ideas are still in use today.

11. Her use of cameras and monitors paved the way for modern CCTV systems.
12. The two-way communication feature is now standard in video doorbells.
13. Remote door unlocking has evolved into smart locks controlled by smartphones.
14. Her invention highlighted the importance of home security, leading to increased demand for such systems.
15. Many modern security systems still use the basic principles of her design.

What Recognition Did She Receive?

Despite her groundbreaking work, Marie Van Brittan Brown did not receive widespread recognition during her lifetime. However, her contributions have been acknowledged posthumously.

16. She was awarded the patent for her invention in 1969.
17. Her invention was featured in The New York Times in 1969.
18. She received an award from the National Scientists Committee.
19. In 2016, she was posthumously inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
20. Her story has been included in various books and documentaries about African American inventors.

What Was Her Personal Life Like?

Marie Van Brittan Brown balanced her career and personal life while making significant contributions to technology.

21. She married Albert Brown, who was instrumental in helping her develop the security system.
22. They had two children, one of whom, Norma Brown, became a nurse and inventor like her mother.
23. Marie continued to work as a nurse even after her invention gained attention.
24. She lived in the same house in Queens, New York, for most of her life.
25. Marie passed away in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and perseverance.

How Is She Remembered Today?

Marie Van Brittan Brown's legacy continues to inspire new generations of inventors and security professionals.

26. Her invention is considered a precursor to modern home security systems.
27. Schools and organizations often highlight her story during Black History Month.
28. Her life and work are studied in courses on African American history and women's contributions to technology.
29. She is remembered as a pioneer in the field of home security.
30. Her story serves as an inspiration for women and minorities in STEM fields.

Interesting Tidbits About Her Invention

Marie Van Brittan Brown's security system had some unique features and interesting aspects that are worth noting.

31. The system included a panic button that could alert the police or a security company.
32. It was one of the first systems to integrate multiple security features into one unit.
33. Her invention was ahead of its time, considering the limited technology available in the 1960s.
34. The patent for her invention has been cited by 13 subsequent patents, showing its influence on later innovations.
35. Despite the initial lack of recognition, her work has gained more appreciation in recent years.

Marie Van Brittan Brown's Legacy

Marie Van Brittan Brown's invention of the home security system changed how people protect their homes. Her innovative design, which included a camera, monitor, and two-way microphone, laid the groundwork for modern security systems. Despite facing challenges as a Black woman in the 1960s, her determination and creativity shone through, earning her a place in history.

Brown's work not only made homes safer but also inspired future inventors and engineers. Her story reminds us that innovation can come from anyone, anywhere. Next time you see a security camera, think of Marie Van Brittan Brown and her pioneering spirit. Her legacy lives on in every home security system, proving that one person's idea can make a lasting impact on the world.