Rue Jean Oestreicher

Named after a true Parisian hero, Rue Jean Oestreicher has a story that intertwines with the tumultuous history of Paris itself. Situated near Porte Champerret in the 17th arrondissement, Rue Jean Oestreicher may seem like an ordinary street at first glance, but it holds a significant past. This street is named after Jean Oestreicher, a man who walked these very pavements, a man who fought for the liberation of Paris during the dark days of World War II. Born in 1913, Oestreicher was not just any Parisian. He was a lawyer, a scholar, and a fierce advocate for justice. He joined the resistance group “Ceux de la Résistance” under the code name “Lorrain,” dedicating himself to fighting for his beloved city. He even defended fellow resistance fighters in the courts, risking his own life to protect others. During the liberation of Paris in August 1944, Oestreicher played a crucial role. As a member of the local liberation committee, he was appointed deputy mayor of the 17th arrondissement. Imagine the scenes of both hope and chaos that must have unfolded on these very streets during those pivotal days. Sadly, on August 20th, 1944, Jean Oestreicher vanished while on a mission. He left the town hall on a borrowed bicycle, never to be seen again. The circumstances of his disappearance remain a mystery to this day. Though his life was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on in the street that bears his name. Rue Jean Oestreicher serves as a constant reminder of his courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to freedom.