David explores the thriving London Jewish Community which was becoming more integrated into society. Its origins were mostly from Western Europe and from economic migration than from Eastern Europe and refugees. In an era before state help, there was a wide range of Jewish cultural and charitable institutions which were often the envy of their neighbours. 

David Barnett, retired as CEO of a large national organisation in the public sector, was able to indulge his passion of the history of 18th and 19th century London. He received a PhD and wrote a history of business in London in the Industrial Revolution. This further developed into an interest in Jewish London.