Marie Van Brittan Brown

Marie Van Brittan Brown was a pioneering inventor and innovator who made significant contributions to the world of home security. Born in Queens, New York in 1922, Brown grew up in a time when opportunities for black women were severely limited. Despite this, she went on to develop an innovative home security system that laid the foundation for modern home security systems used today.

Brown's invention was inspired by her own experiences as a woman living in a high-crime neighborhood. At the time, it was common for women to be afraid of opening their doors to strangers, especially at night. Brown wanted to find a way to increase safety and security for herself and her family.

In 1966, Brown and her husband Albert Brown filed a patent for a closed-circuit television system that would allow homeowners to see who was outside their door without having to open it. The system consisted of four peepholes, a camera, and a monitor that could be placed in any room of the house. The camera would capture an image of anyone standing outside the door, and the image would be transmitted to the monitor in real-time.

The Browns' invention also included a two-way microphone and a remote control that would allow the homeowner to unlock the door remotely. This was a significant innovation, as it allowed homeowners to control access to their homes without having to physically interact with anyone outside.

Brown's invention was groundbreaking at the time, and it laid the foundation for modern home security systems. Today, home security systems are ubiquitous, and they are used by millions of people around the world. The Browns' invention was a key part of this evolution, and it is a testament to their ingenuity and innovation.

In addition to her work as an inventor, Brown was also an active member of her community. She worked as a nurse's aide, and she was a member of her local church. She also volunteered her time to help children with disabilities.

Brown's legacy serves as an inspiration to all those who face challenges and obstacles in pursuing their dreams. Despite the barriers she faced as a black woman in a male-dominated field, she was able to make significant contributions to the world of technology, and her work had a lasting impact on the world. She will always be remembered as a true pioneer of American innovation, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of inventors and innovators.