United States Patent and Trademark Office

The headquarters of Riggs Bank, so prominent it was referred to as the “Bank of Presidents,” resided down the street. Patrons could easily stroll through Lafayette Square, attend a service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, or—given the proper invitation —enjoy a conversation with pre-eminent intellectuals and community leaders at the Cosmos Club, a private social venue for science enthusiasts.

Hungarian-born Maria Telkes was an energetic, accessible, determined pioneer for solar energy who was underappreciated. With a prism-shaped aluminum box tucked under her arm, 54-year-old scientist Maria Telkes walked across the campus of New York University toward a group of faculty members and students who gathered under the midday sun.