Black History Month 2022 - Celebration of "The Brown Family Inventors"

Logue Library is celebrating Black History month by remembering Inventors - Marie Van Britton Brown, her husband Albert and their daughter, Norma Brown.

Marie, who worked as a nurse, invented the first Home Security Systems.  

                                                            

With the help of her husband, Albert, an electronics technician they were able to secure a patent for their design that was cited in 32 additional patents.

According to Blackpast.org, "Brown’s invention laid the foundation for later security systems that make use of its features such as video monitoring, remote-controlled door locks, push-button alarm triggers, instant messaging to security providers and police, as well as two-way voice communication. Her invention is still used by small businesses, small offices, single-family homes, and multi-unit dwellings such as apartments and condominiums. The Browns’ patent was later referenced by thirteen other inventors including some as recently as 2013."

   Here is a picture of the patent of the Home Security Design

This couple would later welcomed two children, Norma and Albert. Norma followed in her mother, Marie's footsteps as a nurse.

Norma, invented numerous devices.  Justia patents list eleven.

1. Systems and methods for reserving a replacement rental vehicle
2. Interactive furniture for dieters
3. Safety tree stand
4. Combination tampon and menstrual pad
5. Avalanche and hypothermia protective system
6. Disposable adhering beverage container cover
7. Bra barrier device
8. Ladder including storage compartments
9. Sensor shoe for monitoring the condition of a foot
10. Safety walker for a baby
11. Female security device

The Brown family displayed ingenuity in their designs and were rewarded for their efforts.

Logue Library has resources that you can obtain to resource the topic of "Inventors."

 Here is a list of books from the Logue Catalog.

                                          Inventors

                                         Security Systems

Here are some YouTube Videos on this subject

         Marie van Brittan Brown - Creating CCTV in Queens

             Marie Van Brittan Brown: Inventor of the Home Security System

                        Marie Van Brittan Brown: A Smarter Way to Stay Safe

What Invention do you believe is the most important in society?

Feel free to comment on this blog

J. Presley, Systems Librarian and Sister Mary Jo Larkin, Dean for Library & Information Resources