Ernestine Rose married William Rose, a union based on shared ideals and mutual respect. They practiced a form of secular, egalitarian marriage.

Rose began giving public lectures on various topics, including women's rights, religious freedom, and social reform. Her eloquence and passionate delivery quickly gained her recognition as a compelling speaker.

Motivated by a desire to contribute to the burgeoning reform movements in the United States, Ernestine and William Rose immigrated to New York City.