On a practical level, widowhood presented a challenge to a mother with seven children still at home, her youngest being sixteen. Victorian women had few options in terms of employment. Many women relied on their husbands or sons for income, and after the loss of a breadwinner, economy became necessary. For Amelia, matters were further complicated by four of her daughters being unmarried and securing good matches and dowries for her girls was a priority.
Upon the death of his father, her eldest son John, took over financial obligations of the family, though found it a struggle to maintain Eldon House and family upkeep. John attempted to manage debts as best as possible, though occasionally it caused strain for him and the family.
Jun 1, 1859 John was making arrangements to get the money but could not do so until after the 31st as he had to put in a note at the bank for it, and has now paid Mr. Becher the whole sum of 174. I feel so sorry that he should all his life have a weight of debt upon his shoulders. It is true he will be compensated in the end, but now there is nothing but a sacrifice of property, which would fall on my sons, as my daughters get almost nothing, could enable me to meet even a small debt. I often feel that the mortification which I have to endure when I have to go to my sons for money is necessary to keep my proud heart humble.