John Brown [also known as Sir John Brown] was Born in Northampton, Northamptonshire, England on 10 February 1880. He was articled to Charles Dorman (1837?-1901) from 1896 to 1901 when he commenced independent practice as an architect in Northampton in 1901. From 1902 he was in partnership with Robert Yates Mayor (1865-?). He later formed a partnership with Arthur Edward Henson (1899-?).
Brown was elected a Licentiate of the Royal Institute of British Architects (LRIBA), an Associate of the Royal Institute of British Architects (ARIBA) in 1921, and a Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects (FRIBA) in 1930. He was knighted in 1934. He was twice master (1942–4 and 1950–51) of the worshipful company of Pattenmakers
From 1915 onwards, whilst still working as an architect, Brown was heavily engaged in military and diplomatic activities. He died at his home in Northampton on 4 April 1958.
Wootton Hall, Northamptonshire, 1913-14: Crockett and Jones Shoe Factory, Northampton, 1907; P. F. Willis, Ltd., Cinderella Shoe Works, Worcester, 1914; Cogglns, Ltd., Shoe Factory, Raunds, 1922; and many other shoe factories, and a number of houses.
Directory of British Architects 1834-1914. Compiled by Antonia Brodie, et al. Volume 1: A-K. London; New York: British Architectural Library, Royal Institute of British Architects/Continuum, 2001