On June 22, 2025, we visited Garvin Cemetery in Union Township, Scioto County, Ohio, to clean the headstones of Mary Ann Mershon (née Shaw) and her grandson Peter Stall. Mary Ann Mershon was born November 11, 1830, in Nile Township and died September 18, 1897. Her monument is a white marble vaulted obelisk, weathered but still standing tall. Nearby rests her grandson, Peter Stall, son of Caroline Mershon and Christian Stall. Peter died on August 16, 1883, at just 1 year, 2 months, and 16 days old, placing his date of birth around May 31, 1882. His stone is a small, delicate marble obelisk.
Both headstones were heavily soiled and were cleaned using D/2 Biological Solution, soft-bristle brushes, and plenty of water. You’ll notice a “blushing” effect on the stone after application—this is normal and typically disappears after rinsing or a few days of sun exposure. Since the forecast calls for hot, sunny weather, we reapplied the D/2 and will return next week to monitor the progress. This video documents the process and serves as part of our ongoing efforts to preserve and honor the memory of those laid to rest in southern Ohio.
