Solomon G. Brown's Poetry

Did you know Solomon G. Brown—the first African American employee of the Smithsonian Institution—was also a talented poet? Solomon G. Brown (1829? - 1906) dedicated 54 years of service to the Smithsonian under three Secretaries: Joseph Henry, Spencer Baird, and Samuel P. Langley. He gained a reputation as a scientific-graphic illustrator with a propensity for writing poetry. In celebration of National Poetry Month you can assist with transcribing a memorial verse Brown wrote in honor of his friend, Isaac Brown.