Plautzengasse

The first two name forms derive from the Low German keveler = bickerer, and seem to describe a prominent characteristic of the residents. The later Plautzengasse, according to W. Stephan, goes back to the sale of offal that took place here (Polish: płuca = lungs). He also believes that the customary bickering associated with this trade led to both designations. The term Plautze was actually used in two other senses in our household. On one hand, it referred to the belly, especially when it had the dimensions of a beer gut. On the other, Plautze also meant something like clan, gang, or disreputable association. For example, at the sight of an unwelcome fellow approaching with bag and baggage, one would say: "Oh God! Him and his Plautze!" Thus the Plautzengasse, continuing the old name, could simply denote the lane in which a disagreeable, quarrelsome clan lived.