The Heritage of Jewish Vilkaviskis
Vilkaviskis
A small town in Southern Lithuania. where the Jewish Community is no more
Welcome to my journey of rediscovering the rich heritage of Vilkaviskis. My first step me to the Jewish Cemetery, a poignant reminder of the vibrant community that once thrived here. Through this, I aim to honor the memories and stories those who came before us. Join me as we uncover layers of history and reconnect with the past.
"Welcome to a journey of remembrance. This site offers a glimpse into the streets and landmarks of Vilkaviškis—a town once vibrant with Jewish life and culture. Through these images, we honor the memory of the community that shaped this land for centuries."
Ralph Salinger, 2014 — Reflecting on the journey of remembrance in Vilkaviškis. From a television program created by Marianpole television
Let us remember that at the beginning of 1941, around 3,500 Jewish men, women, and children lived in Vilkaviskis. Of these, 3,400 were murdered during the months of July to November of that year. Only 950 have a physical memorial, so 2,450 Jews died with no known memorial - they died without a trace! Hence, this project.
Jewish prayer for the Martyers
May the L-rd remember
the souls of the holy and pure ones
who were killed, murdered, slaughtered, burned, drowned, and strangled
for the sanctification of the Name,
because, without making a vow, I shall give to charity on their behalf.
As reward for this,
may their souls be bound in the Bond of Life,
together with the souls of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob;
Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah;
and together with the other righteous men and women in the Garden of Eden
About
My name is Ralph Salinger
My name is Ralph Salinger; I would like to tell you a little about myself. I was born in England and lived in New Zealand and in 1973 I arrived in the Kibbutz Kfar of Ruppin as a volunteer, the Land of Israel called me, and I decided to build my life in Kfar Ruppin. I am married to Betty, we have 3 children, 5 sweet grandchildren and more "children" who have joined our family over the years. In the past in New Zealand, I was an educator and deputy principal of a primary school and in Kfar Ruppin I worked as a gardener, a fisherman, and manager of the export department at the “Palkar " plastics factory.
Today as a pensioner I mow the lawns, and at the same time restore Jewish cemeteries in Eastern Europe and help people trace their roots... and also take care of my grandchildren.