In 1863, after his archaeological survey began, he discovered India's first conclusive Paleolithic stone tool (a hand axe).

Foote built a valuable collection due to 40 years of geological and pre-historic expeditions in various parts of western and southern India.

Foote's collection of antiquities was all sold to the Madras Government Museum in 1906, where it is quoted to be a valuable treasure.

[9] He died on 29 December 1912 and was cremated at Calcutta; his ashes were deposited at Holy Trinity Church, Yercaud, Tamil Nadu, India.

His grandson was Major General Henry Bowreman Foote, who was the recipient of the Victoria Cross for his contributions to realm's defence during the Second World War.