Solomon G. Brown

Biography

Solomon G. Brown broke barriers as one of the first African American employees of the Smithsonian Institution, serving as a museum aide, librarian, and educator whose enthusiasm for science influenced generations of visitors. He used his role to advocate for public education, lecturing on natural history and inspiring young people to pursue learning.

Brown balanced professional dignity with civic engagement, participating in the life of Washington, D.C., through church and fraternal organizations, always mindful of the example he set for others. His steady service earned the respect of colleagues who saw in him a patient guide to science and citizenship.