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by -NUNYA-- on May 28th, 2009
Maybe because they are holding a "pan" by the "handle" as they wait for some loose change to "tink" into the pan? Just a guess. +5
by Factotum on May 28th, 2009
I suspect it has to do with tinkers but I'm not sure.
by uncacal on May 28th, 2009
The outstretched arm is supposed to represent a panhandle. Often called 'stemmers' as well.
by calicorey on May 28th, 2009
We call this practice “panhandling,” the origin of which is obscure. Some believe it is because beggars used to sit quietly on the sidewalk with a pan, others believe it is because an outstretched hand looks like a panhandle. Neither of these theories strikes me as realistic. I prefer to think it comes from the desire of the person being asked for money to hit the beggar with any available weapon, such as a panhandle, pans being commonly carried objects in the early 19th century.
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Comments
+6
by uncacal on May 28th, 2009
As good an answer as any.
by Outta-here on May 28th, 2009
Thanks uncacal and Science Dude!!!
by -NUNYA-- on May 28th, 2009