04/30/2026
The Edgewood Museum Receives Bequest
The Edgewood Museum is honored and humbled to announce that it has received a most generous gift from the estate of Verona R. (Sherman) Freyermuth. While she lived her adult life away from her hometown, the Edgewood community that nurtured her in her youth remained in her heart. As a lasting sign of her affection for Edgewood, she provided substantial bequests toward the betterment of the community, including gifts to the Edgewood Museum and the Edgewood Public Library, among other organizations.
Verona, who passed away on October 10, 2025, was the daughter of Veryl and Genevieve (Lighty) Sherman. She was born and grew up in Edgewood and graduated as valedictorian of the Edgewood H.S. Class of 1958. She met her future husband, Elmer Freyermuth, while earning a teaching degree at Upper Iowa University. They married in 1960 and made their home on a farm near Hazleton. Verona spent her career shaping young minds as a first-grade teacher in Oelwein. Her husband also taught in the Oelwein schools.
Her thoughtful gifts will strengthen the Edgewood organizations honored with bequests, and by extension will strengthen and benefit the entire community.
The Edgewood Museum is beyond grateful for Verona’s gift. From the time the concept of a local museum was ddiscussed 11 years ago, we have anticipated the need for additional space to showcase and preserve Edgewood area history. That is now in the realm of possibility. The bequest, together with funds from our Memorial Fund and a little help from our patrons, will serve as a funding base to plan and construct a much-needed addition to our building.
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