Elizabeth and William Wirt entered into marriage with the idea that an equal partnership could be achieved, but outside pressures from William's work, and Elizabeth's eventual acceptance of her role as the domestic head of the household led to a split that became clearly defined. Elizabeth and William, both well educated, embraced the idea of sharing responsibilities during the courtship and in the early years of the marriage, and some duties were shared, but this did not continue as William beginning to become a slave to his work. Elizabeth wanted this equal life, but William was not willing to curve his travel or his pursuit for wealth and glory. He spent long periods of time away from home, and pursued a political career, as well as his private law practice. In the early 1830's, he made a decision to end his political career and move to Florida. During this time, he grew closer to Elizabeth for the second time in his life, but he was ill and spoke of retiring, but could never bring himself to do any such thing. .
Their life began with the best of intentions for being equal, as the patriarchal attitude of husband and wife was becoming less relied on. From 1803 to 1806, the couple began their life together. William's office was in the home, and Elizabeth helped with almost all the paperwork and ran the office. William was traveling, trying to expand his practice, and spoke of longing to be at home with his loving wife. He was involved in the domestic affairs around the house, but was subservient to Elizabeth in these matters, because he knew little of them. Although William's salary from being a judge in Williamsburg and from being a lawyer was seen as equal by the couple, the patterns of their domestic life were becoming clear. William was to become the breadwinner, whereas Elizabeth would be in charge of the household.
In 1806, they moved to Richmond in hopes of cutting down on William's travel and an increase in salary.
