 He was extremely able, studying chemistry, taking an interest in geology and other sciences, and keeping a laboratory and library at his home.With his brother-in-law, he had set up a new ironworks at Donnington Wood in 1783.He developed a circle of friends from the engineers and manufacturers who visited Coalbrookdale, including Matthew Boulton, James Watt, 'Iron Mad' John Wilkinson, Thomas Telford, and a number of intellectuals connected with Joseph Plymley.