In 1850, Matthew was a clerk, perhaps working for his father who manufactured umbrellas. In 1860, he owned and/or ran an umbrella store and had a total worth of $54000. In 1870 and 1880, apparently following in his father's footsteps, or perhaps running his father's business, he was a manufacturer of parasols. In 1900, he had apparently retired as he was then a "Gentleman." In 1910, his occupation was "Trustee," perhaps again following in his father's footsteps as a trustee for The Committee of Relief of the Massachusetts Charitible Mechanic Association, chartered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The charter states: "..the annual income of said Corporation shall only be employed for the purpose of relieving the distresses of unfortunate Mechanics and their families, to promote inventions and improvements in the Mechanic Arts, by granting premiums for said inventions and improvements ; and to assist young Mechanics with loans of money."