Mary's purchase ....

[BettyO]

More or less in reference to Willie's death (February of 1862) perhaps? Although by that time, she should have been out of mourning. Does anyone know if she put off mourning for Willie after a year or so?

Some mothers wore mourning until they died; according to one source, Lew Powell's mother did. Queen Victoria also wore mourning for her Albert until she died as well.... it could depend on the individual.