Dedicated in loving memory of Justine Schmertz Herzog, and in honor of her contributions to the Southern Jewish experience in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Justine received a Bachelor of Arts from Hunter College, NY, and a Master of Arts in Mathematics from the University of Michigan in 1940, before moving to Baton Rouge with her husband, Bob Herzog, where she was an active member of Congregation B'nai Israel and its Sisterhood. Justine served as President of the Jewish Federation of Greater Baton Rouge, and was an honorary lifetime member. She was an officer of the League of Women Voters, and active in many other community, educational, and civic organizations.

All of her fellow congregants over the years were big fans of her baking contributions to Onegs — particularly her famous rugelachs and jelly center cookies. Her Matzo ball soup, kasha varnishkes, and brisket, were also enjoyed by her family and friends.

This Mezuzah was made by Justine’s great-granddaughter, Wanda, age 13, at Congregation Beth David in San Luis Obispo on May 31, 2026.

The family would all like to thank the museum for preserving and sharing this history.