• Stabilization: Applied knife-grade adhesive to reattach the top of the stone to the base.

• Conservation: Used Lithomex infill to repair and stabilize damaged areas.

• Cleaning: Gently cleaned the surface with D/2 Biological Solution to remove biological growth and brighten the inscription.

Biography

Early Life

Mary Foote was born in 1812, the daughter of Leman Foote and Rush Scofield Foote. Her father, Leman, served as a Captain in the War of 1812, and together he and Rush raised a large family of ten children. Mary grew up in a household shaped by service, family devotion, and the early years of a rapidly changing America.

Marriage & Family

In the 1830s, Mary married Richard M. Dedrick of Clifton Park, New York. Their marriage brought together two well-regarded local families, and the couple went on to have four children:

• George Dedrick

• John Dedrick

• Charles Dedrick

• Margaret Dedrick

Life & Community

Mary’s life, though tragically short, was tied to family and the growth of the Clifton Park and Halfmoon communities. She was part of a generation where family networks were crucial in shaping both farm life and local society.

Later Years & Death

Sadly, Mary Dedrick passed away in 1843 at the age of just 31 (her stone says 21, but records reflect 31). Following her death, Richard, her husband, married Mary’s sister, Juliette Foote, ensuring that the Foote and Dedrick families remained closely connected. Today, all three—Mary, Richard, and Juliette—rest side by side in Union Cemetery, Halfmoon, New York, where their story continues to be remembered.