Began the practice of his profession in Preston, where he soon rose in public estimation, and was much sought after by a large circle of patients. Connected with the Dispensary, he rose in time to be its Senior Hon Surgeon. He was a Member of the Preston Town Council from its first constitution under the Municipal Reform Act until his death, and in 1847 was elected an Alderman. He was also a Member of Council of the British Medical Association and Fellow of the Royal Medico-Chirurgical Society. Alderman Brown was noted for his kindness and suavity both as a public man and a friend. Despite the claims of his extensive practice, he managed to devote much time to archaeological pursuits, and in these he found full scope for his active and cultivated intellect. He was a member of the Lancashire and Cheshire Historic Society. His vigour was impaired by a serious illness, and he was compelled to relinquish much of his former activity towards the close of his life. He had been confined to his house in Winckley Square, Preston, for some months before his death on February 1st, 1858. His son was Sir Robert Charles Brown (q.v.).