9 Marie Van Brittan Brown Facts: Inventor & Visionary in Home Security Systems

Marie Van Brittan Brown (1922 – 1999),a pioneering inventor and visionary, is an unknown name in the field of home security systems. She was a nurse and an inventor, and while her contributions might have been lost in passages of history, we should not forget her. Who is she? She is the inventor of the audio-video home security system that is a common equipment in most homes today. Let’s take a look at her life. 

A career in nursing 

Born in 1922 in Jamaica, Queens, New York, Marie Van Brittan Brown pursued a career in nursing. Her compassion to care for others extended beyond the hospital walls, as she also sought to ensure the safety and security of her own community.

Innovation through lived experience

Living in a high-crime area with limited police response times, Brown, like many residents, faced the constant threat of burglary. This firsthand experience with insecurity fueled her determination to find a solution that would empower homeowners to take control of their own safety.

The birth of a game changing idea 

In the 1960s, alongside her husband Albert, an electronics technician, Brown conceptualized a home security system unlike anything seen before. Their invention aimed to bridge the gap between a vulnerable home and a distant police force.

Feature-rich security system

Marie Van Brittan Brown’s home security system had several key features: a peephole with adjustable angles for improved visibility, a closed-circuit television system to identify visitors before opening the door, and a two-way intercom that allowed occupants to communicate with those outside without physically opening the door. The multi-layered approach was a significant deterrent to potential intruders.

Patent, without commercial success

In 1969, Brown and her husband were awarded a patent for their innovative home security system, officially recognizing their groundbreaking invention. However, due to limited resources and a lack of widespread marketing, the product did not achieve immediate commercial success.

Groundwork for future iterations 

Despite the initial lack of commercial traction, Marie Van Brittan Brown’s invention laid the groundwork for the video intercom systems and remote monitoring features prevalent in modern home security systems. Her vision for empowering homeowners to take charge of their security continues to inspire innovation in the field.

She dented the glass ceiling

As an African-American woman inventor in the 1960s, Brown defied stereotypes and carved a path in a field traditionally dominated by men. Her story is a story of grit and determination to prosper and contribute to the society, regardless of background or gender.

Inspiration for future inventors

Marie Van Brittan Brown’s story ignited a spark of inspiration for aspiring inventors, particularly those from underrepresented communities. It showed the power of how a single, well-defined idea can influence the entire world. Her name might have gotten lost in the journals of history, but we should never forget her. She did inspire a generation of women.

True global inspiration 

By recognizing Marie Van Brittan Brown’s ingenuity and perseverance, we celebrate the spirit of a true pioneer. Her invention, though not a household name, represents a significant step forward in the evolution of home security, paving the way for the interconnected and user-friendly systems we rely on today. The world does not recognize her enough but you can and you should! The next time you see a home security system, remember that it is the brainchild of a woman who wanted to keep her locality safe!