Marie Van Brittan Brown

Marie Van Brittan Brown was an African American inventor who created the first home security system. Her invention, patented in 1969, laid the foundation for modern security cameras, alarm systems, and video surveillance used in homes and businesses today.

Early Life and Background

Marie Van Brittan Brown was born on October 30, 1922, in Queens, New York, USA. She worked as a nurse, and her husband, Albert Brown, was an electronics technician. Their jobs often had irregular hours, leaving Marie home alone at night in a neighborhood with high crime rates.

This fear for her safety inspired her to create a home security system.

The Invention of the Home Security System

Marie and her husband developed a security system that included:

• A camera that moved up and down to see through peepholes.
• A microphone for two-way communication with visitors.
• A remote-controlled door lock, allowing the homeowner to unlock the door from a distance.
• An alarm button that contacted the police in case of an emergency.

Her system was granted U.S. Patent #3,482,037 in 1969, making her the first person to patent a home security system.

Impact and Influence

Marie’s invention became the basis for modern security technology, influencing:

• Video surveillance cameras used in homes, offices, and public spaces.
• Intercom systems for communication with visitors.
• Alarm systems that automatically alert authorities.

Her idea was ahead of its time, and today, millions of homes and businesses rely on security systems inspired by her design.

Recognition and Legacy

Although Marie Van Brittan Brown didn’t receive widespread fame, she was:

• Recognized by the National Scientists Committee for her groundbreaking work.
• Honored as a pioneer of modern security systems.
• Credited for influencing the multi-billion-dollar home security industry.

She passed away on February 2, 1999, but her legacy lives on in every modern surveillance and security system used today.

Conclusion

Marie Van Brittan Brown’s innovation made homes and businesses safer, proving that one great idea can change the world. Her work remains a critical part of modern security technology, helping to protect millions of people every day.