Kay 99, Amondg, Manukarik, thank you for the new information.
Judah's change in religious direction is surprising and a big turn up. Maybe why he was later also know as Joseph. The google book on the obituaries for Matthew gives a wonderful depth to the man. He certainly achieved much in 55 years and could be seen as the Steve Jobs of his age with his financial backing of the railways.
I have had a quick look at Jewishgen and it looks really interesting and will get into this site in detail tomorrow which no doubt will provide more info.
Would the pensions from the French army cover 'for services rendered to the government' (eg provisions of finance for railways) as opposed to actual service in the French armed forces. It seems if Matthew also spent time in the army he certainly did much in a short time, seeing he only lived 55 years, to achieve all he did as a businessman. a quite incredible few generations. Hopefully Jewishgen might provide the answers.
