The Knowledge
“The Woman Who Invented the Home Security System”
Before smart homes, Marie Van Brittan Brown invented the first home security system in 1966—pioneering safety tech that still protects millions today.
Last Updated on May 1, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Part of the “Forgotten Genius Fridays” series from The Knowledge
🚨 Before Ring, There Was Marie Van Brittan Brown
Long before smart doorbells and mobile alerts became the norm, a nurse from Queens was already thinking ahead.
In 1966, Marie Van Brittan Brown, a Black woman living in New York City, felt unsafe in her neighborhood. Her husband, Albert, worked late hours, and she was often home alone. With crime on the rise and no real way to know who was at the door, she took matters into her own hands.
So she did what few people would think to do:
Home Security System
She invented the modern home security system.
🛠️ How It Worked
Marie and Albert Brown designed a closed-circuit television system with:
A camera mounted on the door Peepholes at different heights A live-feed monitor inside the home A microphone for two-way communication And a panic button to instantly alert the police.
In 1969, they were granted U.S. Patent No. 3,482,037, and that system laid the foundation for many of today’s smart home security tools.
📄 View the original patent here
Check out this Link: Marie Van Brittan Brown and Albert L. Brown ( Wikipedia)
🔄 Lasting Impact
Marie’s invention wasn’t just revolutionary—it was personal. Her system was designed for peace of mind, especially for women and families in vulnerable communities. Today, elements of her design show up in everything from Ring and Nest to intercom-equipped apartment doors.
She didn’t just protect her home—
she helped create the smart home.
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