Mary Ball Washington passed away on August 25, 1789 at her home, now known as the Mary Washington House, from breast cancer. She was about 80. WHM promotes breast cancer awareness during the month of October with Mary Ribbons and these handcrafted boxwood wreaths. Enjoy your own pink ribbons and fresh, ancient boxwood harvested from historic Lansdowne, once the retreat of Mary’s attorney, neighbor, and friend, James Mercer. Since 1942, Lansdowne has been stewarded by the Backus family. James Mercer was also the owner of the St. James’ House, now stewarded by WHM.