Waldheim, Molotschna
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m-Waldheim-River.jpg (26493 bytes)Waldheim, today Vladovka, became the largest village in Molotschna.   The Begim-Tschokrak River flows through the village, separating the full landowners from the others.

The village was founded in 1836 by a group that had roots in Przechowka, Prussia, but came to Molotschna from Volhynia.  Great-great grandfather Peter Ratzlaff lived in Waldheim, and although we have no direct evidence, we believe that he was born in Volhynia.

m-WaldheimStreet.jpg (18293 bytes)The broad Landowners Street can be seen at the left.  In the 19th century, the unpaid ministers were often full landowners since others could not afford to spend the time as ministers.  One can consequently speculate that Peter and his family lived in this part of the village.