Witch window claim is a term used to describe a type of window design found primarily in the state of Vermont in the United States. Also known as a Vermont window, lazy window, or coffin window, the witch window claim is characterized by its slanted position on the side of a house. The unique slant of the witch window claim is believed to have originated from a superstition in the early 19th century. According to legend, the inclined placement of the window was intended to prevent witches from flying into the house. It was believed that witches could only fly in a horizontal or upright position, making it difficult for them to enter a slanted window. In reality, the slanted position of the witch window claim has a more practical explanation.
In reality, the slanted position of the witch window claim has a more practical explanation. It is said that the design was a way for builders to make use of existing materials. By installing a window salvaged from another building at an angle, they could save on costs and labor while still allowing natural light into the house.
Witch Windows
Traveling through the Vermont countryside, especially in the northern parts of the state, you might notice some old farmhouse windows oriented at an odd angle. According to folklore, these so-called “witch windows” were tilted 45 degrees so that witches couldn’t fly through them into the house.
These 19th-century architectural anomalies, also known simply as “Vermont windows,” or “lazy windows” have blurred origins. Another, even grimmer explanation is that the crooked windows were used for getting a coffin outside the house more easily, hence they are also nicknamed “coffin windows.” That said, it’s arguable that sliding a coffin through a second-story window is not exactly less demanding than simply carrying it through the narrow staircases often found in these old homes.
From today’s perspective, it’s clear that there’s a much less mystical explanation for the curious slanted windows: frugality. The sloped windows were the most practical way of getting enough sunlight and fresh air inside the second-floor rooms. The windows are usually wedged under the eaves right between the main building and an added wing of the house.
During the 19th-century, northern Vermont was very rural and dominated by small farming communities with limited or nonexistent access to things like factory-made millwork. If you were building a new house, you trekked to a hardware store and ordered things like mouldings, factory-built mantels, and windows from a catalog. The selections were limited and the best you could hope for was to find a premade and glazed window with a width that allowed you to fit the odd sloping space, which was a much better solution than trying to build something on your own. Vermont farmers have always been recognized for their common sense and ingenuity. It’s likely they also reused windows that didn’t fit above the new gable, and were installed at a diagonal to take full advantage of the sliver of available wall space.
Know Before You Go
The witch windows can be found throughout Vermont, especially in the north. The map coordinates are for the town of Craftsbury, Vermont, where at least two examples of tilted windows can be found, pictured above.
There are at least six more examples of witch windows along the corridor of route 100 from Waterbury, VT to Morrisville, Vermont. There are also several witch windows in the North Country of New Hampshire, perhaps spillover from previous Vermont residents.
The slant of the witch window claim is typically between 30 and 60 degrees, although the exact angle can vary. This specific design feature can be found in various architectural styles, including New England farmhouses and historic homes. Today, witch window claims are considered a unique and charming feature of Vermont's architectural heritage. They have become a popular tourist attraction, with visitors admiring the craftsmanship and ingenuity behind these windows. However, their practicality has diminished with advances in modern window technology, and they are no longer a common feature in newly constructed buildings. In conclusion, the witch window claim is a distinctive architectural feature found in Vermont. While its slanted position was believed to ward off witches, the practical reason behind this design was to reuse materials and save on construction costs. Despite their historical significance, witch window claims have become more of a novelty than a functional aspect of modern buildings..
Reviews for "Witch Windows and the Occult: Debunking Myths and Misconceptions"
1. Michelle - 2 stars - I really didn't enjoy "Witch Window Claim". The plot was confusing and felt disjointed, jumping from one random scene to another without much explanation. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked any depth or development. I found it hard to connect with them or care about their struggles. Overall, the book felt rushed and poorly executed, and I was left feeling unsatisfied and disappointed.
2. Jason - 1 star - "Witch Window Claim" was a complete waste of time. The writing was terrible, filled with grammatical errors and awkward phrasing. The dialogue was wooden and unrealistic, making it hard to engage with the story or the characters. The plot was predictable and lacked any originality. I struggled to finish the book and would not recommend it to anyone looking for a well-written and interesting read.
3. Samantha - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "Witch Window Claim" based on the promising synopsis, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The pacing was off, with long stretches of nothing happening followed by sudden bursts of action. The world-building was weak and left me with more questions than answers. The main character was unlikable and made questionable decisions throughout the story. Overall, I found it difficult to become fully invested in the book and would not recommend it to others.
4. Michael - 2 stars - "Witch Window Claim" had an intriguing premise, but the execution was lacking. The writing style was convoluted and confusing, making it hard to follow the storyline. The constant shifting of perspectives made it difficult to form a connection with any of the characters, and their motivations were often unclear. The book seemed to drag on without much direction or purpose, leading to a rather unsatisfying ending. I was left feeling frustrated and disappointed with this read.