She became a widow when Henry died in 1687. Since as a married woman she was not allowed to own property, he provided for her in his will. He gave
my dear and loving wife, who hath ever been tender of me and industrious in her place in procuring what outward estate God hath bestowed upon us" to receive the benefit of all the housing and lands; "my movables, chattels, cattle, etc. at her disposal to either my own children or my grandchildren as she shall see cause at her decease;
He also requested that his children be dutiful and tender to their aged mother.
Ann's will was dated September 8, 1690 and was probated in November, 1691. She bequeathed to her sons and to various grandchildren. She died on September 29, 1691 in Lynn, Essex County, Massachusetts and was blind at the time of her death.
During the 17th and 18th centuries an adult unmarried woman was considered to have the legal status of feme sole, while a married woman had the status of feme covert. A feme sole could own property and sign contracts. A feme covert was not recognized as having legal rights and obligations distinct from those of her husband and could not own any property. When a woman became a widow she became a feme sole again.
A Puritan woman's clothing consisted of underpants, stockings, linen, shift, petticoat, chemise (underblouse), bolster (a padded roll tied around the hips under the skirt), bodice, skirt, apron, coif (cap), outer gown and shoes.
A woman might wear a ruff or bow and an apron. Cloaks were worn instead of coats. Women carried a small cloth draw-string bag or reticule and perhaps wore a chatelaine.
Old Style Calendar
Before 1752 the year began on Lady Day, March 25th,. Dates between January 1st and March 24th were at the end of the year. Old Style (O.S.) and New Style (N.S.) are used to indicate whether the year has been adjusted. Often both dates are used.
APuritan was a member of the religious group in the 16th and 17th centuries that advocated "purity" of worship and doctrine who believed in personal and group piety. Puritans were persecuted in England and came to America so they would be free to practice their religion.
Understand the Puritans better: Wicked Puritans of Essex County is a unique report on Puritan criminality that shatters the stereotype of the Puritan.
